Buying CPUs internationally?

[PanzerBlinky]

Looking at some of the American prices (I'm in Australia), I've noticed that, even after the currency rate conversion (basically 2 to 1 US against A), CPU prices are a crapload cheaper in the US. I was thinking of buying one, but is there anything that may not allow me to run the CPU over here? I was thinking specifically about voltages. For anyone who can help, could I buy a CPU from the US and use it over here in Australia without extensive modification?

 

[MaJik]

my gut says they'd be the same chip, but ive been wrong before 😛

 

[PanzerBlinky]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure they would be, but it's that 5% uncertainty that's got me hesitating

 

[tweakr]

The chips Intel makes are multi-national - the powersupply in your PC case handles the conversion from AC to DC, not the chip - hence a cpu/motherboard/vid card from the US would work in Australia, the UK, or anywhere else that had compatible PC power supplies availible. For example, all Celeron533As take 1.5v, no matter what country they are used in.

cheers
tweakr

 

[DaddyG]

100% certain that the chips are the same. The problem is the high cost of shipping/insurance. Any duties to be paid etc. Also warranty claims will be difficult if not impossible. Course, if you want to buy 1000, I can set you up with a deal.