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    Center pin on DC jack/pin 1 - what does it connect to?

    Discussion in 'Alienware 17 and M17x' started by Plkoehn, Aug 2, 2012.

  1. Plkoehn

    Plkoehn Newbie

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    Hi folks,

    I was replacing the dc jack of my M17x-R1, and I managed to pull up a solder pad for pin 1 of the jack, which corresponds to the center pin on the adapter plug. I can't seem to find a pinout, nor can I find what this center pin connects to on the motherboard.

    I have heard that the center pin may let the mb detect the type of ac adapter in use, but it doesn't seem to have a trace leading away from the hole.

    Does anyone know if the center pin on the adapter is actually used on this model? Or where this pin should connect on the motherboard?

    Thanks for any advice!

    PLK
     
  2. katalin_2003

    katalin_2003 NBR Spectre Super Moderator

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    Hello, Plkoehn, the center pin is used for the adapter recognition. Without it, your laptop will switch to the 9400M.
     
  3. Plkoehn

    Plkoehn Newbie

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    Thanks, katalin_2003, I was afraid of that. I have not tried to repair the solder pad, it doesn't look like it has much conductor around the hole. Do you know if there is a nearby solder point that I can use instead of the solder pad? I've looked for a trace to follow, but couldn't find one.

    Again, I appreciate the advice!
     
  4. katalin_2003

    katalin_2003 NBR Spectre Super Moderator

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    Unfortunately, i don't have my M17x anymore so i could look for you :(
     
  5. Plkoehn

    Plkoehn Newbie

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    No worries - I know more now than I did before. I sure miss my younger eyes!

    Thank you!
     
  6. Plkoehn

    Plkoehn Newbie

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    Found the trace, but there is no convenient solder point. Ah well, looks like it's pad repair!