im taking the southwest chief back east to chicago then driving to michigan from there but i need some info on the power on the train. i will be in a standard sleeper and was wondering if theres enough power to run a computer or maybe even run my playstation because for playstation they have this little device where you dont need a tv but they sella little monitor that hooks onto it all you have to do is plug in your playstation. what is the voltage and is it enough power,any detailed info would help so much iwas even going to bring my 13 inch tv vcr combo to watch movies would that even work?thanks again everyone
Posted by Ken V (Member # 1466) on :
Instead of your Playstation or TV/VCR combo, why not look out the window. You might be amazed at what passes by. :}
Posted by Southwest Chief (Member # 1227) on :
If I remeber correctly the outlet in the room says 110 volts. However, the standard room gives little to no room for luggage let alone electronic devices. Also, the outlet plug is in the wall near the reading lights. This will be somewhat akward for anyone using the chair closest to the outlet, as the wiring will be a real nuisance. There is a small table/tray that pulls out of the wall. It is not that strong and doesn't support too much weight. While the computer(laptop) and playstation will work, I think your TV will be too heavy and a potential hazzard. As far as watching videos, you don't need to. The Southwest Chief shows movies in the Lounge Car. So if you can't resist the urge for electronic devices, I think the playstation with the monitor attachment will be your best bet. I have a playstation, but always thought it would be too much hassle to bring it along on the train. If I really wanted to play video games on a trip I would pack my Gameboy. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip on one of Amtrak's best. Posted by salmon_beach_amtrak (Member # 1585) on :
TV would probably be too heavy for the little table and would be too awkward. 120V (or 110V, it doesn't really matter) is fine for your playstation. If it plugs into a North American outlet, it should work. Just make sure you don't overload the outlet though. It is designed for small things like laptops and shavers. Putting too much load on these outlets could pose a fire hazard and can damage the car, your equipment, or most importantly, you! If you can find an amprage rating (i.e. 2.1A) on the specification plate on the back or bottom of your equipment, add all of the amprage ratings together and make sure it doesn't exceed what is labeled on the outlet. Always give yourself a little leway though, like .5 amps if possible.
Posted by Silver Star (Member # 1570) on :
Don't miss the scenery...you won't need the entertainment on that train! But if you do take electric items, be sure to take an extension cord as the power socket is on one side of the room and a plug with your own device may not reach far enough. The extension cord can be tucked below the seat cushion to stay out of your way. Also, the power socket is recessed into the wall on Superliner 1 sleepers and some big plugs won't fit into it (such as a radio scanner plug which is bigger than a standard power plug). Have fun but do plan to look out the window.
