Information about power supplies for Nintendo systems
23/02/2010
Some people might be surprised to learn that the Nintendo DS Lite, Nintendo DSi and Wii systems some shops stock for purchase were not meant for distribution in the European Economic Area or in the UK but have instead been imported by third parties from countries outside of the European Economic Area. In fact, you may have bought a Nintendo system yourself outside of the European Economic Area or the UK during your travels.
As you probably know, different countries use different electricity standards. Please be aware that the battery of the Nintendo DS Lite and Nintendo DSi handheld systems should only be recharged by using a thoroughly tested, safe charger meant for use in the relevant country. Similarly, the Wii console should only be operated with Nintendo's power supply meant for use in the relevant country.
Nintendo DS Lite
Nintendo DSi
Wii
Some of the Nintendo systems imported from outside of the European Economic Area and the UK have had the original Nintendo chargers or power supplies substituted with a charger or power supply manufactured by third parties, with the aim of adapting them to the local electricity network.
Please be aware that any substitute chargers or power supplies will not have been subject to Nintendo’s strict testing and quality control procedures. That does not necessarily mean the charger is dangerous, but it does mean that it will not have been subject to safety checks by Nintendo. Please bear in mind that Nintendo’s manufacturer warranty will not cover any damages caused by or in connection with chargers or power supplies manufactured by third parties.
The official Nintendo chargers and power supplies that are normally included in Nintendo systems' packaging meant for distribution in the European Economic Area and in the UK are pictured in this article. Official Nintendo DS Lite and Nintendo DSi chargers and the power supply for Wii designed for use in the European Economic Area are grey in colour, and bear all of the following markings:
- On the Nintendo DS Lite and Nintendo DSi charger, the ‘Nintendo’ logo is embossed on the side of both the main plug, and the smaller plug; on the Wii Power Supply the 'Nintendo' logo is embossed on the top of the main unit of the power supply, as well as on the plug;
- The ‘CE’ mark on the back of the main plug of the Nintendo DS Lite or Nintendo DSi, or on the bottom of the main unit of the Wii Power Supply;
- The crossed out ‘wheelie bin’ symbol also on the back of the main plug of the Nintendo DS Lite or Nintendo DSi, or on the bottom of the main unit of the Wii Power Supply;
Nintendo DS Lite
Nintendo DSi
Wii
When you buy your Nintendo system abroad and then want to use it in your home country or when you travel and want to use your Nintendo system abroad, always make sure you use a charger that is in compliance with all the local applicable laws and regulations.
Nintendo DS Lite
Nintendo DSi
Wii
If you have any concerns about the charger that was included in your Nintendo system purchase, please contact the retailer from which you purchased the product or get in touch with the Nintendo Service Centre at nintendoservicecentre@codestorm.co.uk.
Electricity and the effects it may have on products that did not undergo a rigorous testing process is nothing to take lightly.