Best way of changing voltage for PSU

[Computer0304]

I am planning on getting a XPS 8700 that I am going to take with me to Korea in a few months. The problem is, the PSU seems to not have a voltage switch on it. Is it a internal switch that is activated automatically or do I have to use a transformer? If I do have to use a transformer, what would be the best?

 

[pbcopter]

Most modern supplies without a switch are designed to work from around 100 to 240 volts with no switching required to allow it to cover the various power connections in different countries.

The XPS 870 is designed to work form 100 - 240 Volts and with 50 or 60Hz.

You may need to get either a power cable or plug adapter for the Korean system.
I am not familiar with their outlets.

http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/AK/AK_EN_1_5_6.jsp

ftp://ftp.dell.com/Manuals/all-products/esuprt_desktop/esuprt_xps_desktop/xps-8700_Reference%20Guide_en-us.pdf

 

[Mellon Head]

You may need to get either a power cable or plug adapter for the Korean system.
I am not familiar with their outlets.

The computer end will be the same, it's just the part that plugs into the wall that might be different. The OP can probably pick up a cable at a local shop when in Korea.

 

[Computer0304]

They use the Schuko plug which is used in Europe so I may be able to get a European plug.

 

[Computer0304]

OK I was just making sure so I don't fry my new PC.

 

[Computer0304]

You may need to get either a power cable or plug adapter for the Korean system.
I am not familiar with their outlets.

The computer end will be the same, it's just the part that plugs into the wall that might be different. The OP can probably pick up a cable at a local shop when in Korea.

There are plug adapters. But I'm not sure if there are ones that are grounded.

 

[Computer0304]

Will this work: Amazon.com: OREI Grounded Universal 2 in 1 Schuko Plug Adapter Type E/F for Germany, France, Europe, Russia & more - High Quality - CE Certified - RoHS Compliant WP-EF-GN: Electronics

 

[Computer0304]

Anyone?

 

[Mellon Head]

Will this work: Amazon.com: OREI Grounded Universal 2 in 1 Schuko Plug Adapter Type E/F for Germany, France, Europe, Russia & more - High Quality - CE Certified - RoHS Compliant WP-EF-GN: Electronics

I would use this instead:

Invalid Request

Using a real cord is always safer then using an adapter.

 

[Computer0304]

Can you explain why because I am curious.

 

[Mellon Head]

An adapter is one more link in the chain of failure. I'm not saying the Amazon adapter is of poor quality, but a lot of adapters are made with cheap or substandard parts, increasing their risk of failure and/or fire. I work in electronics, if I don't have to use an adapter to accomplish something that a cord or cable will do, then I'm happy. A single cord is a much better alternative to a cord and an adapter.

 

[Computer0304]

Is that the exact same thing except a different input end? Also, what is the difference of the different IEC 320 standards?

 

[Mellon Head]

It's the same thing, just a different input end. One that fits into a wall in Korea (I think).

This explains the IEC standards better than I can:

IEC 60320 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[Computer0304]

Oh so there are different IEC-320 standard plugs. Thank you for that info. Should I buy the cord straight from DigiKey or is there a better place?

 

[Mellon Head]

You'll probably get the best quality for the price at Digi-Key.com or Mouser.com. I use both for work, and they're great suppliers. Never a problem.

 

[Computer0304]

Ok thank you. I'll leave it unsolved in case anyone else wants to tell me something.