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    power questions

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by Captain Picard, Sep 28, 2008.

  1. Captain Picard

    Captain Picard Notebook Consultant

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    I have an hp laptop and of course it came with an hp power adapter...but I only have one and I like using my laptop in different rooms without unplugging and bringings the power adapter too. Should I buy more hp power adapters or is it okay to go ahead and use my dell power adapters for my old dell laptop?

    Also, when I turn off my computer for the night, is it better to leave it plugged in to the power or will that hurt battery life (or not doing it hurt battery life) or cause other problems?

    Thanks!
     
    Captain Picard, Sep 28, 2008
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  2. davidfor

    davidfor Notebook Consultant

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    It is if they are the same voltage and have the same plug on the end. Be careful when checking the plug as they might look the same but have the polarity reveresed.

    It shouldn't matter. When the battery charge reaches 100%, the charger turns off. It doesn't turn on again until the battery charge drops to a certain point (95% in the laptops I have checked). So whether the power adapter is plugged in or not won't make a difference if the battery is fully charged.

    There is a small benefit from unplugging the adapter from the wall. You will save some power by not running the adapter and if there was a power surge during the night your laptop won't get damaged. Just remember to turn it on in the morning or you will soon run out of power (I forget all the time).
     
    davidfor, Sep 30, 2008
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