Japan Hardware, Power Supply concern

[Mistwalker]

Hello all,

I have a small concern and am hoping someone can put it to rest...I would like to build a PC but am currently living in Japan. As most hardware is quite a bit more expensive here, I'm faced with the prospect of buying certain components here and some from the States (where I would have a family member or friend send them over).

My question is, given the different voltage (100V, 50Hz) in Japan, would a power supply bought in the U.S. have any problems here? Would a Japanese power supply give me trouble working with any components (motherboard, etc.) from the States?

My instinct is that the hardware is probably the same everywhere and I am overthinking this, but if anyone here has experience with international computing...do I need to be careful what I buy and where?


Thank you kindly!

 

[So]

I have a fairly good knowledge of power supplies, and my first thought is that the frequency might in theory affect the PSU if it's not designed to handle it. That said, IIRC, parts of japan have 60Hz lines and other areas have 60Hz, so surely someone locally knows if it causes a difference.

IMO, to be safe, buy the PSU locally.

 

[Aluvus]

The output of the power supply will be the same DC voltages regardless of where it is purchased or what its AC input is. As long as the power supply can deal with the power available in your area, you're fine. No need to worry about the other components in that respect.

FWIW, most PC power supplies sold in the states will not have a problem with 50 Hz, but some may not like being fed 100 V.

 

[Harvey]

The power mains in most of Japan are at 100 volts, not 117, as in the U.S. Eastern Japan (Tokyo, Kawasaki, Sapporo, Yokohoma, and Sendai) is @ 50 Hz. Western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima) is @ 50 Hz.

Switching power supplies (typical in computers, etc.) can handle the lower frequencies more easily than the older linear supply designs still used in some audio and other gear. The input voltage range is determined by the design, as well. Check the rated input voltage range for gear you want to make sure it can accept the lower frequency and voltage, including tolerance for at least 10% low line conditions.

 

[Mistwalker]

Hmm...so it sounds like buying the power supply here in Japan is a good idea, but after that it's all DC so anything is fine...right?

Thank you for helping me err on the side of caution, much appreciated!