Moving from US to Europe..power/shipping questions...

[Ramesses]

Ok so, I am planning to move to Germany in a few months. Within those few months however, I would like to build my new PC (to handle 5 instances). It will be pretty beefy, and fairly expensive.

Here are my questions:

1. I know Germany/Europe uses a somewhat different power system. At least from what I know, the outlets are different, as for the current I think that is different as well. If I build my PC using parts from newegg in the US, should I worry about issues with power when I get my PC to europe? Do I need something to convert voltage, or to make sure my PC doesnt get damaged from the difference in power outlets?

2. I think it will be cheaper, and easier to build my PC from Newegg in the US. But that means I will need to bring it on the plane to Germany. I dont think I can take it carry-on overseas, although I have carried a PC on carry on in domestic flights. Any ideas or suggestions on how I can get it to Germany on the cheap? I am very nervous about checking it. Maybe I should take it apart and carry the sensitive pieces (HDD, gfx card, maybe even mobo?) on carry-on? Do you think security would freak if i was carrying PC parts in my backpack?

Thanks dudes! And dudettes!

[sWaTs]

Here's a quick overview about power systems and countries:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_power_systems

As long as your power supply has a switch for 110/230V or 110/220V you should be on the safe side. Otherwise you may need need to look for a new power supply in Germany.

To get a clue about german prices for pc parts you can check out this quite cheap site: http://www.litec-computer.de/PC-Komponenten:::554.html

About flight security I don't know...

[beyond-tec]

heya :)

welcome to germany *g*

power in germany:

http://www.kom4u.de/an_Steckdose.jpg

I'd buy new power supplys in germany for my PCs to ensure that they work correct
and don't burn because of too much power or turn off because of not enough power :)

problem with the pc will be the german customs because you might pay taxes for the
parts because they will think you bought them in the US because of the german tax-system
to save some money.

I'd prefer to built your PC in germany - much easier than get it on the plane and through the
security and customs system in Germany :-)

[Ramesses]

heya :)

welcome to germany *g*

power in germany:

http://www.kom4u.de/an_Steckdose.jpg

I'd buy new power supplys in germany for my PCs to ensure that they work correct
and don't burn because of too much power or turn off because of not enough power :)

problem with the pc will be the german customs because you might pay taxes for the
parts because they will think you bought them in the US because of the german tax-system
to save some money.

I'd prefer to built your PC in germany - much easier than get it on the plane and through the
security and customs system in Germany :-)

Thanks for the advice! Nice to see some German multi-boxers :)

Maybe I can buy some parts here and some in Germany. I think 2x graphics cards would be safe in my luggage.

[Djarid]

Sockets in many EU countries are supposed to be compatible - France / Germany / Switzerland have some cross-overs if you have narrow 2 pin plugs they do all implement earth differently though :(

if you end up going to UK you will be amazed at the big-ass plugs we use there ;) (but we are the only ones to have individual fuses - probably due to the standard 30A dual ring mains we have instead of the lame 15A you get in France & Suisse :( no HW for me)