Using power inverter with Canon battery chargers (in Tanzania)?
For my upcoming 3-week Tanzania trip, I purchased a Xantrex pocket inverter 100, that will convert 12 VDC car battery power to 110 VAC/60hz. However, as with most inverters of this size, the output is "modified sine wave", i.e., the AC is 60hz square wave, rather than smooth sine wave.
I belatedly discovered that Canon advises NOT to power their chargers or power adapters with a power inverter. I asked Canon why, and they responded that the square-wave output causes overheating in the charger, and could potentially destroy it. Canon does offer 12 VDC chargers for over $100 a pop (one each for G9 and Vixia camcorder), and an expensive 12 V cable for the 1D MKIII charger.
I plan to do most of my recharges (whenever available) at our lodges and camps from 220 VAC outlets. However, if any of my night stays cannot provide AC, I may need to recharge from the vehicle while on the road. I'm carrying an extra battery for each device, so I do have enough backup for 1 to 4 days' work without recharge, depending on conditions.
Questions:
1. Specific to N Tanzania: is 220 VAC so readily available at most safari camps and lodges that it is unnecessary to carry an inverter for recharging on the road? My stays will be Tarangire Tented Lodge Serena Lodge (Ngorongoro), Serengeti Ndutu Lodge, Kisima Ngeda tented camp, village stay (4-5 days, AC availability unknown), Manta Reef Lodge (Pemba).
2. Have any of you tried using a power inverter to power Canon chargers?
3. If so, any problems?
4. Bottom line: Do you think it worth taking my 3/4 lb (350 gm) inverter & surge protector combo, or is it likely to be extra unused baggage? I don't want to get stuck with dead batteries, but I don't want to carry extra junk either.
I'd appreciate advice from those of you who have experience with the inverter/charger issue or with the availability of 220 VAC at overnight venues in Tanz.