- The power unit is known as the motorbrake adapter.
The most important thing before you ride the Fortius, is to upgrade the firmware which controls the motorbrake and motorbrake adapter. You can do this online using the software that comes with the Fortius. If you neglect this step, it is possible that the motorbrake adapter will blow and you will need a replacement unit. While it is probably covered under warranty, getting a new motorbrake adapter is a pain.
- Tacx supplies two versions of the motorbrake adapter - the 220v/50Hz version and the 110v/60Hz version. The 220v version is designated by part number T1941-50 and the 110v version by the part number T1946-50. See the product overview from Tacx for a good schematic of all parts and part numbers. If you have the 2007 multiplayer model, there is a slightly updated product overview.
- Neither of the motorbrake adapters are autosensing the way, for example, your laptop power supply generally is. If you plug in a 110v/60Hz motorbrake unit into a 220v/50Hz supply it will probably blow up either itself, your house circuit breakers or both. Likewise for the 220v/50Hz version if you plug it in to a 110v/60Hz supply. I know, I did it, it was not fun. You cannot use a simple plug adapter or lightweight transformer to modify the supply to the motorbrake adapter.
- You can purchase replacement motorbrake adapters from anyone who has stock or is prepared to order you one from their Tacx distributor. Alternatively, you can order them online. If you order online, be sure to specify the power cable type to suit your location. Here's a list of power cable types from Tacx. Purchasing a new motorbrake adapter is not a value-for-money experience. I know - see above. The price runs from USD300 stateside to more than double that in the UK, plus shipping. Mileage varies considerably by country, dealer, stock and the direction of the wind.
- If you move between countries with varying power supplies, given the high cost of a new motorbrake adapter, consider a stepup/stepdown transformer. Due to the fact that Tacx feeds power back into the supply during your rides, you will need a fairly powerful transformer. The recommended size is at least 2000 watts. However, these will set you back roughly USD 100 or the local equivalent which is considerably less than a new motorbrake adapter. The downside to these transformers is their weight - they generally come with handles and a warning sign!
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