Computers: To ship or not to ship

Hello –

I know there are threads on this subject already posted but since computer technology changes so quickly, I thought I would start a current one. My desktop PC is about three years old and of course I am attached to it.  Same with my printer/fax/scanner. I am not very computer savvy when it comes to the hardware/electronic issues.  Here are my questions:

Do I ship my system? How do I find out if it has the capability of being converted to the correct voltage system? I understand that the main problem with conversion is the monitor – is this true? Would it be best to try to trade this one in for a laptop system? I think the prices are much better in the US then in the UK. Is this still the case? I know I could store my documents etc. on a CD but I heard there is even a better way to this nowadays.

All thoughts, information and suggestions are welcome! Cheryl

I'm no techno-geek, but I do know that most computers have a switch on the back that will let you switch to UK voltage. That's all it takes. I brought a computer system over with me, but really only because it was brand new (not even unpacked) and I knew they cost more over here. I deliberately bought a new one before moving. For you, it depends on how good your 3 y/o system is, I guess, and how long you'd plan on keeping it before upgrading.

I'm sure there are others on the board who know more about this than I do! 

I am planning on giving up my 2yr old desktop and buying a new, kick-butt laptop right before I move. For me, my buying power is SO much better here and I don't want to have to upgrade for at least a few years.

What "kick-butt" laptop are you looking at buying? Cheryl

I have asked myself this question if the day should ever arrive when we move to the states.  I personally would choose not to ship.  Having looked at the PC markets in the US and UK i have to say, not being biased, that the UK market is infact better.  I looked in Best Buy and was pretty shocked at the quality of kit you got for the price.  I always build my own PC systems from scratch and buy the components.  I always prefer this as you can pick and choose the parts and know exxactly what is going into your system. 

I usually build a system for around £100 - £200 cheaper than an equivalent "store-bought" spec  . 

I can give you some web sites of very good UK manufacturers if you want that wont cost you an arm and a leg so you can compare.

Simon

Simon - I would like your list of sites as I would like to start the process of considering my options. I am leaning toward buying a laptop here so I don't have to go for even a day without computer access! Cheryl

Well try these for starters:

CCL Computers:

http://www.cclonline.com

These are the main people i buy off, you can collect or get delivered, build your own or have it built, install your own or have it installed.  They do a decent range of laptops for reasonable prices.

Scan Computers:

http://www.scan.co.uk

Komplett:

http://www.komplett.co.uk

These are the main ones i use, it will give you a basis for comparison if nothing else...Good Luck!! 

Thanks~~~~I may get back to you with more questions!

Any time 

I have a one year old Dell (not top of the line but it suits my needs). I can't decide whether to ship it or replace it once I arrive. I know that if I sell it here I'll get next to nothing for it. Suggestions?

Also, if I don't bring it with me can I just take the hard drive with me and put it in a new computer over there? (as I am basically lazy and royally ticked off that I've spent the past year getting it set up just the way I want it with all of my favorites bookmarked, etc. only to start afresh with a new computer)  :\\\'(

Thanks,
PaulaH

i would just take it with. what would it hurt?
and has far as just taking your hard drive, you can do that. but with your bookmarks and things, those can be saved on cds as files.

Thanks, Karenn, I'll probably just take it with me. PaulaH

My HP desktop is only about a year old too, and I have a really wonderful flat panel monitor that was as much as the pc itself.  The pc has the little orange dual voltage thingie on the back so I think I'll be ok with that, but I am concerned about the monitor.  I may try just going to the HP and Compaq (for the monitor) websites and seeing if they have any info on it.  I'd hate to have to give them up, they cost a fortune!  (to me anyway)  It's bad enough I will probably have to leave my really nice printer behind.

Mom is going to be pretty happy about aquiring all my electronic cast offs.  

~Liza

can hard drives and routers be put in luggage on the plane? flying ba   

you should be able to, no problem. i brought my hard drive with in luggage (but did not fly ba).  though, i dont know if youll want to bring your router, as im sure the power cord will not work here.