Moving to Singapore - Computer Question

[TheSphinx]

Hi,

I am moving to Singapore on an expat assignment with my family in a couple of weeks from the US. I have a computer that I bought recently and I wanted to bring it with me but I am not sure if there are any power/adaptor issues that would make the computer not work properly. Is there any reason why my computer wouldn't work while I am in Singapore? Can I bring mine or do you guys recommend buying a computer when I get there? I ask because this computer is less than a year old so I would hate to have to leave it in storage to rot while I am gone.

Thanks in advance for the help.

-TS

[kaseyma]

Power adaptors are typically just step-down transformers.
Noise and spikes in the the output might be a problem for sensitive electronics.
I used a line regulator in addition to the transformer when I first arrived 12 years ago.

Not only is the voltage different, but so is the frequency.
Best check with the manufacturer to confirm that 50 Hz ipower is OK.

[Levikane]

You should have no problems as most computer power supplies are dual voltage (meaning they will accept 110v to 250v), the same as many shavers, hair dryers etc. This is especially true with more modern devices.

Chances are, the only difference will be the plug configuration at the outlet - and finding local replacement those plugs are really cheap.

Just look at the specs on the power supply. They will most likely be stamped into the metal or have a white or yellow sticker right next to where you plug it in. If it looks anything like 220-240v 50hz you will be fine.

Failing that, even if you find your power supply cant handle the local supply, it will cost you maybe SGD$100 to get someone to swap it out for a new one; labour and parts included.

[tualobang]

Hi Sphinx,
hope you have not come to SG yet.

First issue is the voltage, its 240v in Singapore. The other is the plug, in SG, its the 3 pin type.

Computers are cheap in Singapore, and you may want to consider selling it in the US, backing up your data into a hard disk and getting one when you're here.

Hi,

I am moving to Singapore on an expat assignment with my family in a couple of weeks from the US. I have a computer that I bought recently and I wanted to bring it with me but I am not sure if there are any power/adaptor issues that would make the computer not work properly. Is there any reason why my computer wouldn't work while I am in Singapore? Can I bring mine or do you guys recommend buying a computer when I get there? I ask because this computer is less than a year old so I would hate to have to leave it in storage to rot while I am gone.

Thanks in advance for the help.

-TS

[sierra2469alpha]

Remember also that power (electricity) is pretty damned expensive here. stepdown/stepup transformers WILL work here, I agree, however better to think about upgrading and sell your kit there and buy a new one here. You'll get all the major brands either directly from them or through resellers, and the prices are competitive (ish)

Cheers, P & C

[sillingw]

Read what Levikane wrote: I brought mine form the US, and just plugged it in. The power supply was dual voltage 110-240. If I remember correctly I had to flick a switch on the back, but it was some three years ago, i just know I had no problems at all - look on the rear of the computer for the specifications of the power supply.

[bigfilsing]

Power expensive here !!!! What rubbish.

Check the back of your PC. Most switching pwer supplies installed in PC's have a selector switch. ( it may be covered with a sticker so have a good look)
There may be an issue with your screen though. Again check the specs on the screen itself. Most are dual voltage and auto detect ( no switch to play with) so you should be fine.

Good luck

[sierra2469alpha]

Power expensive here !!!! What rubbish.

Maybe not from where you're from - but it's close to three times what we were paying in Australia.

Friendly hint: try being a little nicer

[bigfilsing]

Power expensive here !!!! What rubbish.

Maybe not from where you're from - but it's close to three times what we were paying in Australia.

Friendly hint: try being a little nicer

Calm down calm down. I am nice just intollerent of ppl waffling on subjects they clearly know little about.

Some simple maths will quickly tell you that selling his equip and buying new will cost way way more than any difference in kwh/cts between the states and here ever will.

I did try to research the cost comparison between nations kwh's Surprisingly little available

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=bph06788&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=3643454
shows the voltage selector switch thats talked about above

Good luck

[halmin]

You can buy a convert source equipment 380/220/110~ 50Hz to charge your computer! I think it'll useful with you!

halmin,

Please limit your signature to a single hyperlink OR a single line of text at 800x600resolution as per forum policy.

Thanks,
Moderator