Brining Electronics to HK

[Asian1]

I've read some posts on the board about liminting what to bring.

Here is what I do plan to bring:

Laptop (a must). Have a Toshiba. I understand all I need to do is replace the US cord extending from the power brick with a HK cord. Also understand it is cheaper to buy the cord in HK. Which store? I will need it the very next day so was wondering if I could find stores in advance so I know where to go jet lagged and all the next day!

External HDD. I check the power requirements and the adaptor specs seem to be the same as the lappy. Different cord will do the trick?

Scanner. Havent checked this but any thoughts?

Printer (HP Laser Jet 1200 US model). Any toughts?

A cheap alarm clock radio? Heard I can get convertor plugs for $1?

In which cases would one need a power voltage convertor?

[penguinsix]

Cheap alarm clock will blow up with just a convertor--would need a power transformer, which is probably as expensive as buying a new alarm clock.

Double check the external HD--make sure it can take 220, if so then get the $1 plug and convert.

Printer--Isn't that kind of an older model? I don't know--but I doubt it will take 220v electric, especially if it is older. Might be time to get a new one. You might have problems with toner when over in HK.

Laptop cord--anywhere in the Wan Chai computer center. Take the MTR, go upstairs to the computer center, and the first few stores I seem to recall specialize in cords. Take your brick just to be sure you get the right fit.

NOTE: The cheapie 'prong' changers (i.e. 2 plugs to 3 UK plugs) are hit or miss. Some of them have little fuses inside which seem to blow out in a few weeks of use. Hong Kong power is what we call 'dirty power' because of frequent spikes and fluctuations. Adapters and transformers can really take a beating in this environment.

Which also means--buy a surge protector power strip when you are at the computer center.

[penguinsix]

Oh scanner...how often will you use it? Glass if fragile. If you do bring it, be sure to 'lock down' the bed (there is probably something in the manual) so it doesn't swing around a bit in transit.

If you are buying a new printer, you might consider an 'all in one' when you get to HK that does printing, scanning and faxing.

[clarence_kwan_h]

All you need can bet from Wanchai Computer Centre, next to Wanchai MTR Station Exit.

For you Alarm Clock, I would suggest you change your plug by urself.....instead of using convertor....

yes...those converter is not good built

only if you buy the one built by clipsal,
a 2-flat pin -> UK 3-flat pin

[Asian1]

Wow thanks for all the quick responses. OK my external HDD and lappy both indicate will take up to 240v so looks like a new cord and surge protector will work for those. As far as the printer havent checked. The scanner AC adaptor defintely does not indicate up to 240v. Its a Cannon 3000 USB. I'm coming to HK to look for a job so kind of frugal. Can I find an AC adaptor that will work with the scanner at the local shops?

[clarence_kwan_h]

not sure if you can get from those retailer....

you should contact the local branch


Canon HK
http://www.canon.com.hk

HP HK
http://www.hp.com/country/hk/en/welcome.html