I've used various devices like PDAs and other gadgets that I bought in the UK with no problems, I just use a voltage adaptor and its fine and dandy. I worry about bringing my desktop down though. Also, is the hardware similar i.e. can I use hard discs and ram chips I buy in the states in my UK computer or will I have to worry about that as well?
2006-07-25 16:44:46 · 9 answers · asked by Magnus 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
There is no need to worry. Your computer parts do not directly consume alternating current from the plug anyway. At the back of your computer there is a power supply that converts incoming current into different "streams" e.g. 12V, 5V, etc.. and depending on the brand of computer you have, you might or might not need a voltage adapter: some power supplys come with a small switch that allows you to change from 110V to 220V, so check it out now!
2006-07-25 16:53:03 · answer #1 · answered by Sanford 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes you can. There will be no difference in the computer itself other than the keyboard configuration. The only thing is the power supply, but as mentioned in other answers already, this should be able to be switched from 220v to 110v. If not, you should be able to go to any computer shop/store and buy a new power supply which will fit straight into your machine and provide the power requirements you need. Oh, you may also need to buy a new power cable unless you buy a UK/USA plug adaptor. I'd just buy a new cable if I were you, adaptors are bulky especially when you start to put them into extension leads. Shouldn't cost more than $5 for one.
2006-07-25 18:28:58 · answer #2 · answered by KJRainforth 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know what voltage you use there. At worst, you might have to swap a power supply, but I suspect you can run with an adapter. The parts inside will be the same. It's all made in Japan anyway. Music CD's and DVD's may not play on machines here because of the insane zoning scheme,. Cd's and DVD's you buy here may not play on your PC for the same reason.
2006-07-25 16:51:04 · answer #3 · answered by Computer Guy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
most everything shgould be compatible. i've never heard of 'american' ram chips and 'english' ram chips. it's whatever your computer takes. hard drive should be the same as long as it's a standard interface like usb, ata, or fire wire. the only concern i could see is the regional setting of your dvd drive if you have one. most dvd drives allow you to set the region a finite number of times. usually 2 or 3. and that's really only an issue if you plan to watch dvd's on your desktop. it will work the same with software regardless of the regional setting.
you might be able to swap out the power source as well to do away with the voltage adapter.
2006-07-25 16:52:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, I think it'd run just fine as long as you have the right adaptor. But I am no expert- if your desktop has a customer support number, you could call and ask.
2006-07-25 16:49:05 · answer #5 · answered by Michael G 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
European power runs on 220v look on the back of your PC there should be a red or yell switch that slides... you should be able to switch it from 220v to 110v. Most Power supplies in the last 8 years have become standard with this option.
2006-07-25 16:54:30 · answer #6 · answered by Vitamin G 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yeah. just get an adaptor and it would work just fine.
The rest of the internal parts of a computer conform to an international standard and international market.
2006-07-25 16:58:56 · answer #7 · answered by choy_daniel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're gonna need an adapter for it.
2006-07-25 16:48:06 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yep
2006-07-25 17:21:40 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋