It's battery operated. It tells you which batteries to use and the precautions, but it doesn't tell you how to open the battery cubbyhole. It is HARD!!! I used a nail file and a pair of scissors to pry the thing open. Once you got the batteries in, it had only 1 setting... GLARING!!! Far from the attractive light with which most of us prefer to apply our make-up. It will make do for a while. I will buy a better one the next time.