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    Laptop using battery power when AC plugged in

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by rdmckeown, May 22, 2006.

  1. rdmckeown

    rdmckeown Newbie

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    I have a Dell Latitude. The machine is using battery power even when AC adaptor is plugged in. It also does not fully re-charge the batteries.

    What would cause this? Any suggesstions would be appreciated.

    Thanks
     
    rdmckeown, May 22, 2006
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  2. dlstorm

    dlstorm Notebook Consultant

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    Have you checked the plug-in to the notebook? A couple of times I have found my battery unexpectedy drained even when notebook was "plugged" into AC. I found that I had to push in plug and twist it a little to get AC power going again.
     
    dlstorm, May 22, 2006
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  3. rdmckeown

    rdmckeown Newbie

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    Tried it already -- Do you think a component inside might be bad? I have to re-charge the batteries wirh another laptop. Perhaps the plug/or component bad. Do you know of a way to test the plug?

    Thanks for your input.
     
    rdmckeown, May 22, 2006
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  4. dlstorm

    dlstorm Notebook Consultant

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    I'm pretty much a laptop newbie regardless of "guru" label. I assume, if you have another laptop, that you've tried switching power cords, if compatible, to see if power cable and brick is functional. Maybe some of true gurus out there have some suggestions.
     
    dlstorm, May 22, 2006
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  5. qwester

    qwester Notebook Virtuoso

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    that's the right place to start. You can also test if the AC adaptor is functioning correctly by testing it with an amp-meter, if you have one. Or someone who works with electronics will have one for sure.

    things that could be broke:
    1- power brick (AC adaptor)
    2- plug
    3- power mangement circuitry in the notebook

    the third is probably the worst, and would require returning to manufacturer for a board exchange.
     
    qwester, May 22, 2006
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