Computer In France? is it different?

[WindBoy2000]

I am donating a computer to a kid in france, and I was wondering Is there something I should
be looking out for? i know one questions I have on the top of my head is what type of power supply
are they using? is it the same as here? or can i buy a standard power supply and ship it over there.
As with Monitors, do monitors have to be french standard?
etc..
I know this is general, but I only have about 2 weeks to build a computer and donate to him before
he leaves back for france.

thanks.

 

[RSMemphis]

Check to see if your power supply has a switch in the back from 115 to 230V...
Then, you just need a cable to go to the different electrical outlet in france (about $5 or 5 Euros in a store)...

Monitors typically cannot be switched, and you would need a transformer (can be bought in the US or in Europe) to convert the voltage...
Other than that, everything is the same.

 

[Gog]

Also make sure you replace the thermal compound between the cpu and heatsink with Pate... otherwise the computer won't boot.

 

[LukFilm]

Actually, most newer monitors can be used both in the US and Europe with no problem. All you need is a different cord and you are set. I bought a monitor in the US for my parents in the Czech Republic and it was very easy

 

[chansen]

Originally posted by: Gog
Also make sure you replace the thermal compound between the cpu and heatsink with Pate... otherwise the computer won't boot.

That's a load of fromage.

 

[paralazarguer]

Actually, most newer monitors can be used both in the US and Europe with no problem. All you need is a different cord and you are set. I bought a monitor in the US for my parents in the Czech Republic and it was very easy

Uh....no. A transformer WILL be needed. Most definitely.

 

[Mingon]

Also make sure you replace the thermal compound between the cpu and heatsink with Pate... otherwise the computer won't boot

It will boot, it will just get into windows and all of the ports will stop working due to a strike

 

[AT]

Also note that the keyboard in France is different. Not just some keys are missing/added but some keys are in different places.

 

[bozo1]

Uh....no. A transformer WILL be needed. Most definitely.

BS. Most all computers and monitors these days will work with 115 or 230 - you just need the proper cable or an adapter to change the end of your existing cable to the proper keying. Some computers you need to toggle the 115/230 switch to the other position if there is one, other supplies autosense. Most devices just autosense the voltage and work.

 

[Mark R]

Most monitors older than about 2 years are single voltage. Check carefully, it will be marked. If it is, a transformer will be necessary - if it's a 17" or larger, then the transformer can be a bit tricky to get hold of - I've seen very few 240->120 step-down transformers which are capable of more than 100 VA.

A few monitors are switchable voltage. However, many made recently (within 2 years) use a universal power supply and can operate automatically from any supply from 100-250 V.

Most PC PSUs are switchable - although a few are single voltage only - look for a switch.

 

[WindBoy2000]

Thanks for the feedback guys, you guys ROCK!

yep it has the converter from 115 - 230. cool
no more spending more money on parts.

i guess i will load win2k and switch it to french for him.
and he can deal with the rest. hopefully I won't have to do any over seas
support

If anyone missed anything in the above mentioned.
please post more.