Using a UK computer in the US

PixelChef · 30 Nov 2010 at 13:27

Someone asked me this question and I'm not sure about it.

What do you need to use a UK computer in the US? Just power adapters from UK to US? or is it not that simple? Voltage etc?

Thanks for any help

PixelChef · 30 Nov 2010 at 13:41

Thanks.

They are asking about a desktop PC. Not sure if there is a hardware switch on the PSU. If there is, then all they need is an adapter?

Like this?

Or do they need a whole new "kettle" lead which I presume is the power lead?

And what if there is not a switch on the PSU?

PixelChef · 30 Nov 2010 at 14:00

cmndr_andi said:
Ah, if its a desktop then if you can tell us the model of the PSU then we can tell you what specifically needs to be done to make it work in the US.

You could get an adapter which converts from UK to US, however you will want to make sure it still has three pins as you want the earth wire connected. That said - a full-on US 3pin to kettle plug only costs a few quid and will likely be more secure.

It's the Coolermaster 500w PSU that comes with this case: http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CA-225-CM

If that helps

PixelChef · 30 Nov 2010 at 14:24

cmndr_andi said:
Ah, that is interesting. On the Coolermaster website they don't have a 500W Elite Power - so I guess the one in the case is a bit of a one-off. Anyway, the closest relative I can see is the Elite Power 460W.

This PSU comes in two flavours, one has a voltage selection switch on the back (RS-460-PSAR-J3), the other doesn't (RS-460-PSAP-J3). The one that doesn't have the switch is limited to "Input Voltage: 220~240V".

Hence, If the 500W PSU that comes with the case has the selection switch - then it will be fine in the US, but if there is no switch - then it won't work in the US.

Hmmm, ok. Thanks for that info

One more question, what about the monitor? Does that just require a new kettle lead / adapter? Or do you need a power converter? The model is a LG 226WTQ, if that helps.

PixelChef · 30 Nov 2010 at 14:38

cmndr_andi said:
Is that the L226WTQ? If so then that monitor supports

So it will be fine for use in the US with a different plug or a plug adapter.

Yeah that's the one. Good. Thanks for your time and help. And everyone else too. That's all the questions I have for now I think