Ok, as some of you may know I'm moving to the US - in 2 weeks in fact.

I'm taking my computer (a desktop) and maybe some clothes.

 

Over here the voltage out of your standard power outlet = 240v

Over there it's 110v

 

Anyone know whether this causes problems for my computer?

 

I could always buy a new PSU when I get there, but wondering on the need. I remember there being a lil red switch that determines the voltage on the back of the PSU, but I've heard horror stories about people playing with that.

 

Currently, all I've got is a few plug adaptors.

One thought I had, before the concern with voltage, was getting only one adaptor and sticking a powerboard into that so I wouldn't need multiple adaptors. Advice and all that would be good - esp from JL or someone who's moved over from that side of the world.

i think there is a switch on your motherboard that might do that.

id be more worried about customs..

 

my sysadmin here at work came over from teh UK, and they stuffed teh machine by opening it and taking it apart.. then didnt put it back together or pack it back up with padding in the box..

 

1 stuffed gaming PC, lost data on stuffed hard drives..

 

as for the voltage..

 

just buy a new PSU.. easy, safe.

Most PSU's have the voltage switch on the back of them. It is usually small and red and an SOB to switch over, just so you can't do it by accident.

Have had many work computers shipped from US to here. They are fine as long as you remember to switch the little red switch on the power supply over. Goes BANG if you forget. I would imagine the reverse would be true when going to US, as long as the switch exists on the P/S you can switch it to the appropiate voltage. (I think US is only 110v country).

 

Some switched mode power supplies don't need to be switched. As long as the label on the back says 110 to 220v AC 50/60 HZ it will be fine.

 

There is definately no switch on the MOBO.

Robbie,

 

Been there, done that! I lived in the US for a couple of years and took my PC with me. The powerboard idea works well but be aware that most US outlets are not grounded and as a result anything that requires a ground (earth) to function can be problematic. eg powerboards with spike arrestors in them.

 

I would personally remove the harddisk from the PC and put it in carry-on luggage (be prepared to have it X-Rayed of course).

 

Where in the states are you going to be?

 

Bammo

They are fine as long as you remember to switch the little red switch on the power supply over. Goes BANG if you forget.

 

 

Ive NEVER done that.

Well, maybe one time...

Robbie,

 

With the grounding side of things make sure you us a powerboard with a built in fuse or breaker that will help. If it is a newer place you are moving into it is required to be grounded.

 

Like everyone eles said flip the switch and it should be right.

I shipped mine here from Amsterdam UPS no problems.

 

All of North America is 110V, it's safer or something.

 

If you take it on the aircraft get specified item insurance for your travel or when the baggage handlers break your gear they will tell you to piss off.

 

PM me if you want any advise as I've moved internationally three times. I'm also a travel agent so can tell you how the airlines can screw you.

 

Oh, enjoy US customs and the thumb scan and soon retinal scans!

 

Canadians are the only people they don't do that to. It's not nice to piss off a country that powers most of the Eastern Seaboard. :wink:

Thanks for all your help guys.

I knew I'd come to right place to ask this

 

Bammo: Going to live in Utah. Conservative - but my fiancee lives there so no choice

Bammo & JL : Thanks for the 'grounding' advice. Something I never thought of. Makes sense though

Smoke: I'll contact you regarding travel issurance. Suprisingly it's something my travel agent forgot to mention. :roll: Thanks a mill.

Jim, Sapper, Kindos: All my work mates thank you for the lil red switch info too. They were curious.

Solo: Don't tell me that! I have to go via London, since JFK (in New York) has got to be my point of entry into the US for work permit purposes (therefore JFK has got to be the first US place I land). I hate London.

 

Thanks again fellas!

Funny they didn't mention it. Generally it's one of the things we make the most money on.