Using your Notebook abroad

Fairly random question here, but i was wondering how easy it is to use notebook's internationally, in terms of power supply voltage, battery charging compatability etc(I assume i'd need to buy some kind of adapter for it to work with the plug sockets when im out there)? Reason i ask is that i might be going to live in Japan for a year and am also planning to buy a notebook (here in the UK) in the next week or so, and am curios to know whether i need to go for any specific brand (i had assumed toshiba and sony would be the best bets) in order for it to work whilst im out there?

 

Check the bottom of your power brick to make sure it can handle 110-240 volt input.
Bring the correct socket adapters, as you stated.
Absolutely bring a surge protector compatable with that country's voltage. If possible make sure it will protect your phone/ethernet connections also.

With these items you should be good to go.

 

Thanks for the swift reply, jahcs!

I imagined this was the case, i just didnt to bring my laptop out with me only to find it didnt work!

 

Just to let you know, a power surge from your country will not work in another country, even with an adapter. I tried it, and the power bar blew up. Well the fuse blew up so much that it blew most of the electronics inside.

 

Key point that one...

Was the surge protector rated for 110v, 240v, or both? Was is from a reputable company? Just having the correct adapter to plug in a device doesn't mean you should...

And did the surge destroy what was plugged in to the bar? Remember, a surge protector is only an added protection - it's not impossible to see surges large enough to overcome the protection they offer.