Converting 220v to 120v for computers-What do I need?

[letsgetsilly]

A friend is bringing a computer the the US from overseas. From what research I have done, I have found that he will at least require a step-up transformer to change the voltage from 120 to 220.

I remember reading about the changing cycles (Hz) that could damage my laptop if it didn't have the big converter built in on the power cord/supply. I'm wondering if there needs to be something similar for a desktop computer?

Any suggestions on this are greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!

 

[Zach]

Flip the switch on the back to put it into 120 mode.

Text

 

[wamasters]

Many power supplies have a switch (on the back of your computer) allowing you to switch between 110 and 220. Tell your friend to check for that. Otherwise, change the power supply to a 110 60hz model (it's a better/safer solution to the problem - power converters are NOT a reliable , permanent solution).

 

[GalvanizedYankee]

If it's a desktop computer...Find out what brand and model of PSU he's running.

Some PSUs just need a different power cord and can be plugged into 120, others have a switch at the rear of the PSU and one selects 115 or 230.

The monitor and/or peripherals will need a convertor.


...Galvanized

 

[letsgetsilly]

Thanks so much for your input, I'll have a look and report back!

 

[letsgetsilly]

How will the monitors react to a converter where the power isn't necessarily consistent.

Also regarding the 115v...is that sufficient? Doesn't it require 120v? With saying that I realize that I have dealt with computers that are set on the 115 v, but it doesn't make sense.

 

[kd7fhd]

As cheap as monitors, printers, etc. are, just get new ones here. Saves the trouble of packing them up, also. I just bought a 19" NEC MultiSync MS95 at a yard sale for $20. Printers go for $10 & up.

 

[flexy]

you need to check the specs of your PC *and* monitor.

They either have those red tiny switches to switch 'em from 220 to 115...OR (if they dont have a switch) SHOULD do that automatically.

Eg. a typical monitor spec is
>>
Power
Form Factor Integrated
Voltage Required AC 110/220 V ± 10% ( 50/60 Hz )
>>

means it accepts 110 and 220V, so it's suitable for the us and europe.

All you need is standard power-cables with an US/EU plug for the monitor and the PC.

 

[SparkyJJO]

The range here is 110V - 120V, so 115V is fine.

 

[WackyDan]

Cycles, either 50Hz or 60Hz really has no effect on solid state devices like a modern computer.

Relays, and other electro-mechanical devices on the other hand, can really be FUXORED.

Fans won't present a problem however.

So, provided your friend isn't bringing a monitor with them, you probably can just swap in a new power supply, if the existing supply is 220/240 only.

If they are bringing a monitor, and it's a CRT, it most likely is 220/240 only. If it's an LCD that's not too old, it stands a good chance of being both 110-240. It should be printed on the back of the bezel, or on the power brick if it uses one.

A good step up transformer that will handle CPU, and monitor is expensive. A decent Power supply will certainly be cheaper, and be a healthy upgrade to his system.