HELP: Moving To Europe

[CplHicks]

Hey all, I'll be studying in Ireland for a year beginning in September and I was wondering if anybody knew what the best way to get computer equipment over and converted was. I thought about buying a laptop but I think it's out of my budget considering my requirements (gaming, programing, etc.). So I want to bring over my home built computer. I'm planning on downsizing it into a mid-tower or mini/micro-ATX if necessary (right now it's a full 24" high). I also was thinking about picking up an LCD screen to replace my CRT due to shipping costs. My main concern, after getting the equipment to Ireland, is power conversion. Should I bring a converter or am I best off buying stuff there (e.g. a new European power supply). And should I buy my monitor here or there, price and power conversion are the main factors. Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[milagro]

it's easier than you think...when you get there, you'll just need to flip the switch on the back of your power supply to 215. Then go buy a plug adapter that you'll plug your "US" style plug into before plugging into the wall outlet. At least that's the gist of it. The IT industry in Ireland has really exploded and I'm sure you'll be able to get all the supplies/help you need once you get over there. Sounds like a good experience - enjoy the corn beef with cabbage.

 

[CplHicks]

OK, that sounds good for the computer. But what about bringing over other electronics? For example, a monitor and an X-Box. I know I need converters for them, but how hard and expensive are they to get?

 

[FrustratedUser]

I moved from europe to US and the comp + monitor just works fine.
What does not work is printers that use 12V converters, but they can be had in any electronics store.
You'll be fine.

 

[Que-TiP]

Sell your computer and use the money for beer. You'll need it, there is nothing to do there but drink and molest sheep.

p.s. will Xbox output to a PAL TV?

 

[CplHicks]

OK here's what I know:

-apparently most monitors auto-sense the voltage and adjust for what countery you're in (110V vs. 220V)
-computer's power supplies can be manually switched to the correct voltage
-X-BOX will most likely output NTSC, but I can connect it to my PC to use it, and even get a PAL output card if necessary


Here's what I'm still not sure about:
-X-BOX power, I need to know if it's possible to get a transformer for it or if it auto senses voltage
-shipping stuff overseas, I'm concerned about shipping costs and the possibility of something getting broken when shipping my computer supplies abroad. Does anybody have experience in this with UPS or FedEx?