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    AC Adapters..

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Grelot, Mar 10, 2008.

  1. Grelot

    Grelot Notebook Enthusiast

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    hey I got a Sager notebook and the ac adapter died and now i'm seeking some answer about the voltage/amp of AC adapters in general just to know if any ac adapter regardless of the specification can fit any notebook.. I mean if the plug fit can I get an ac adapter with other spec from those i got with my original AC.. like i got 20V 6A of output (120W) so, if the plug fit can i get a, say 15V8A since it's 120W too... i read somewhere that if the voltage is the same or almost the same (like 0.5 of difference..) you can take another AC with another Amp on it.. but i think it would have to be the same or higher Wattage like 120W+

    thank for answers...
     
  2. Tinderbox (UK)

    Tinderbox (UK) BAKED BEAN KING

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  3. Grelot

    Grelot Notebook Enthusiast

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    yeah i got one of these... but not this one... and no sager they say.. i think it'S because sager is too new so they didn't write it when the site was done ahah...
     
  4. hydra

    hydra Breaks Laptops

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    Can you solder or have access to someone who can? If you save your TIP plug you can adapt it to about any 19VDC (120-180W) adapter. The higher wattage adapters will tend to run cooler but generally cost more, assuming 180W for a 120W working load.

    The 15VDC adapter should work with slower recharge rate, only if the cost is low. When on battery, most laptops run at 11vdc but high current draw.
     
  5. ez2remember

    ez2remember Notebook Evangelist

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    * You need the correct voltage otherwise it can damage your notebook
    * The tip should be the same/similar, not just fit...
    * Provide at least the same amount of current (amps) just to be safe...
     
  6. mawk

    mawk Notebook Guru

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    Ah, something that hasn't been mentioned yet and is very important. You need to make sure you have the correct polarity. There will be a little symbol on the adapter and your notebook, make sure they are the same.

    You seem to understand how to calculate power: W=V*I. Whatever adapter you use should have the same or higher wattage.

    About the voltage, you should NOT use a 15V adapter to power a device requiring 20V. You'll be alright if the adapter ouputs a volt or two more, but do not use an adapter rated more than half a volt less.
     
  7. hydra

    hydra Breaks Laptops

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    I've had to run my laptop at 12 volts for extended time, 28 days, overseas when adapter died. The battery only puts out 11vdc. What will be damaged?

    When OC laptop I replaced dinky 90W adapter with 150W unit which runs way cooler but still 19VDC, I assure you, totally safe. My apologize for not mentioning that, yes, the polarity must be right.

    To the OP, ignore the 15vdc, use the 19vdc adapter. I've had no problems but should not expect your notebook not to have problems running at lower voltage. As stated my charging times were affected at lower voltages.

    Cheers