Importing PPCs from overseas [Archive]

Godsongz

11-02-2005, 05:37 PM

Here's the deal... I've got a serious jones for the new Acer N311, but it may not be released here in the US. If Expansys picks up the model for sale over here I will grab it, but I've never done this before.

What are the pitfalls of buying a PPC this way? I'm not too worried about support, I know PPCs pretty well, and there's always you fine folk here at PPCT! :lol: But what if the unit is a lemon? Will I get a battery charger that I can actually plug in over here? How about accesories (like a USB charge/sync cable), do I need to buy those from overseas too? What are the questions I haven't thought of yet?

So who's got experience doing this? I'm sure there are several people here that have bought a PPC this way because the neighborhood Best Buy doesn't carry it.

Thanks!

Darius Wey

11-02-2005, 05:56 PM

Okay, I'll chime in with my two cents. I've never ordered from Expansys, but I know what it's like to own a Pocket PC from overseas.

But what if the unit is a lemon?

Then contact Expansys. You have a right to receive a fully-functioning unit which every single one of your dollars paid for. If that guarantee isn't met, then Expansys should go about seeking a replacement, otherwise they wouldn't be any different to pea-brained Joe Scammer from eBay. Of course, ensure you read Expansys' terms and conditions prior to purchase. You don't want to bind yourself to an agreement that contains warped rules which benefit you in no way at all.

Will I get a battery charger that I can actually plug in over here?

Yes, it should work. Obviously, you will need a socket adapter, but a quick visit to your local hardware store should solve that. They're usually priced around $10.

How about accesories (like a USB charge/sync cable), do I need to buy those from overseas too?

If the device isn't supported in your country, then yes, you will need to purchase accessories overseas. Having said that, Pocket PC Techs (http://www.pocketpctechs.com/) tends to support most Pocket PCs sold worldwide, and since the company is US-based, I'd look to see if they stock accessories first, before looking elsewhere. Unfortunately, I don't see any of the past Acer n series on their site, so there's a high chance you will need to look at an overseas store.

What are the questions I haven't thought of yet?

Warranty support? It can be a PITA if your device doesn't feature worldwide support (believe me, I've been there, done that, and ripped a few hairs out in the process). I'd do a bit of research to see if Acer offers global support. Nothing sucks more than having your device break down and shipping it halfway across the world to have it fixed again.

Language? Make sure you're getting a Worldwide English version of the device. Unless you can speak German, French, Chinese or Japanese, this is something you should always look into before purchasing.

Other questions? I can't think of any at this stage, but if any come to mind, I'll address them here. Additionally, if any come to your mind, don't hesitate to ask. :)