Bringing a computer to europe!

john-ingramjohn-ingram
edited September 2004 in Hardware
Ok someone i know wants me to build them a computer that they can take with them to Hungary, Europe to give as a gift to her mother.
What do i have to do to make it work? I know the power is different. Not just the plug size but i think they have 220 volts right? Should i get some form of a converter or a special power supply for the pc? Or do i need to just use a regular power adapter and then hit the little 220 volt switch on the power supply of the computer?

Im clueless!

Comments

  • mmonninmmonnin Centreville, VA
    edited August 2004
    An adapter should work. The frequency is also different. US is 60Hz, Europe is 50Hz. I think the PSUs can take in the 50Hz tho.
  • leishi85leishi85 Grand Rapids, MI Icrontian
    edited August 2004
    and a lot of the newer PSU have a switch on the back to switch between 110, and 220 volts
  • MJOMJO Denmark New
    edited August 2004
    The Hz shouldn't be an issue.
    Remember we all use the same PSU's, well almost the same. ;)

    And most PSU's are able to switch between 110/220V

    But what does the outlet look like in Hungary?
    Maybe all that is needed is a "local" power cable.

    EDIT: Found something:
    http://www.stayonline.com/destinations/hungary.htm

    It is identical to the outlets here in Denmark it seems.
    The oulet with ground is quite different from the one we use here in Denmark though.
    eu16a-r.gif
  • muddocktormuddocktor
    edited August 2004
    If you look at the ratings on most name brand psu's, they are rated 110/220v 50/60 Hz, so all you should need is the proper power cord to hook the psu to the wall socket. Check the label on this Antec pic I copied from the egg:
  • john-ingramjohn-ingram
    edited August 2004
    Ok. I think the power thing wont be a issue. But what about there keyboards, mice, and monitors? Are they all the same? I know the keyboard has different keys on it for there language so i may need to set windows up in the hungary version. Does anyone know anything? Do i need a Hungary or European windows CD? Because i know i can adjust the language with the one i want but will it actually change everything. Or is there a different windows cd for every country?
  • leishi85leishi85 Grand Rapids, MI Icrontian
    edited August 2004
    u can adjust the language in the regional settings, but if u want windows to be totally in that language, u will need to get windows for that language.(like all the menus and start buttons to be changed to that language.)
  • j-rh3-dj-rh3-d
    edited September 2004
    Im doing the same thing. Im going to spain soon and I have ordered all the plugs I need however, the back of the LCD monitor Im bringing has 100-120v/220-240V 50/60Hz on the back but there is no switch. Do I need a transformer or will it automatically switch when a new power voltage is introduced? I don't want to fry my new 19" LCD.
    -=- Also, I will be keeping this computer at my Mom's house in Spain so I can Travel to see her on a "working" vacation and I need to mail it. Will I have to pay a VAT tax or something on it. Im not exporting it to give as a gift, I paid US taxes on it already and will eventually take it back to the US with me.

    Thanks in advance
    J@rH3@d
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