Q I will be going overseas to Israel soon to study and am looking to buy a laptop. I want to load it with Windows NT and Linux. I intend using it to learn Web programming (HTML, Java and Perl), and to maintain what I already know in terms of Unix shell programming and C.

What aspects of laptop configuration should I beware of, and what concerns would I have plugging a laptop into a foreign power supply (in terms of voltages etc). Also, are there any concerns about taking a modem overseas? My budget is limited to about $4000.

A Your main concern should be to buy a brand that has authorised service centres in the country you are going to. This is for two reasons. First, your warranty is only valid if you take it to an authorised service centre. Second, most portable computers are proprietary in nature, and only authorised service centres are likely to have access to parts.

The power supply is not an issue. Portable computers by definition are designed to go travelling and will work with power supplies around the world. No adjustments are necessary. For people using desktop computers, there is usually a switch to adjust for different power supplies. If you want to check, the computer will come with information about the power supplies that it can use. For portable computers, this is usually printed on the external power pack.

Also, you will need an adapter so that you can use the Australian plug in a foreign country. Australia has an unusual plug, so it is worth obtaining an adapter before you leave. These are available from electronics stores such as Dick Smith and Tandy, as well as at airports.

Modems tend to be the main source of problems. Generally, a modem will work in another country, though you can encounter niggling little problems. When buying a modem, always mention which country or countries you intend to use it in, so that you can get a modem certified for that country. According to Edward Jozis, manager of Melbourne-based modem distributor Micronica, the key issue is less likely to be whether the modem will work overseas, but rather whether you are legally entitled to use it there. If you intend to stay in Israel for an extended period I would suggest that, even if you buy your portable computer here, buy the modem in Israel.

Caption: If your modem cannot detect a dial tone, uncheck the Wait for dial tone before dialing check box

There is only one setup change necessary to help make a modem work in another country. Normally the modem listens for the dial tone before starting to dial. However, in other countries and inside some PABXs, the dial tone sounds different to the standard Australian dial tone. To get around this, you may need to set the modem to dial without listening for the dial tone: open the Modems control panel, choose the modem that you are using and click the Properties button. In the Properties dialogue box, select the Connection tab. Then uncheck the Wait for dial tone before dialing check box.