IT Queries: Computer problems answered

I just zapped a brand new office desktop by neglecting to switch the voltage from 110V to 220V. We operate in a 220V country, but we buy all our computers from the US (110V). There was an immediate, short, loud zapping noice as soon as I plugged the cable to the electrical outlet, and smoke came out of the back of the CPU.

What can I do to salvage this desktop?

This is a pretty common problem when plugging a US purchased computer into 220 or 240v mains system. While you get an impressive bang, it usually only destroys the power supply.

Just take the computer to your friendly local computer shop and get them to replace the power supply. Usually this will cost less than $100.

Try to get a power supply rated at least 400 watts as many systems only come with 200w power supplies or less which mean you can have problems when power hungry peripherals are plugged into the USB ports.

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