Dear Future Gamer,

I know you hate messages from confused readers but I will continue. I do not understand the international compatibility issues. I know that the PAL PlayStation has had a chip added so that it will not run American games. I know that the software companies have done this on purpose so that they can release a game in a country so they can maximise profit levels. What I don't understand is whether, as US TVs have different screen and pixel configurations, a UK PlayStation will work in the US or a US PlayStation will work over here, or if extra adaption plugs are needed.

David Croom

FG: You do need extra bits of kit. The Americans use a 110 volt power system and we use a 240 volt power supply. You need to step-down the UK power supply to run an American PlayStation over here and unless you've got a really modern TV you're going to need an NTSC to PAL signal converter if you want to get a picture.