Using another AC Adapter

Hello all,

Question boils down to this: I have a Dell XPS M1730 230W AC Adapter that I can no longer use, but will be receiving an Alienware M17X. Is my Dell AC Adapter compatible with my Alienware M17X? I realize it is a long shot, and that I don't really need it; however, it would present make it a lot easier to transport the 17x between different rooms or areas of my home.

Thank you in advance for any replies.

 

No it does not work on the M17x, these are 2 totally different AC adapters. You'll have to order a 2nd one from Dell if you want to set it up in different rooms.

 

On your AC adapter you should be able to find something that sounds like this:

You should also be able to find something on your notebook that says something like this:

If the output on the AC adapter matches the input of the notebook, you can use that adapter with that system.

My understanding has always been that you want to make sure you get the right amount of volts (the first number, the V) and yo want to make sure you don't have more amperage (the second number, the A) than the system can support. But with these machines you're going to want something that is designed specifically to take the required power.

For the most part on replacement power blocks, I've had perfect luck with direct-from-China-through-eBay power blocks. They're usually a whole lot cheaper.

Good luck, and PM me if you want any more help. I don't have an M17x yet, or I'd link you to the right power block on eBay. Peace!

 

Its not just the power rating that is important, its the actual Physical connector that matters the most.

if the power adaptor's connector does not match physically then it is 100% not compatible.

 

Dell will tell you probably that its not possible. But in reality, you need to make sure that you have the correct Voltage and power requirements. The power supply should be rated at 19.5V. Then, also check the Ampers. This value tells you how much ampers it CAN provide, but not how much it actually does all the time. If the XPS powersupply is rated at equal or bigger amers than the M17x power supply, then you can use that XPS powersupply.

A very important fact to check is if the polarities are the same. They should be the same, but its better to be on the safe side. Finally, the connecter needs to fit as well. So, if the XPS power supply meets these requirements, you can use it.


Finally: I TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY SHOULD ANY DAMAGE OCCUR TO YOUR SYSTEM. TRY THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK!

 

I have to disagree. The connector can always be resoldered. Its the ratings which will tell you whether you can use it or not

 

I second that. And anyway the question about whether the connector physically fit or not is too obvious, clear and simple.

 

Another issue I see here is that his current adapter is 230W whereas the M17x is 240W. If the M17x only has one video card then it may not be an issue. The computer may also recognize the difference in power rating and warn you everytime you boot up, but I think that can be disabled in BIOS.

 

Also don't forget the polarity.

 

Alright, Thank you for the help everyone. I guess I'll just wait until I get the M17X from Alienware then to know for sure.

Aside from the physical connector, the XPS power brick is:

Only reason I'm asking is that my XPS 1730 died and Dell is kind enough to replace it with an Alienware m17x of "equal-ish" specs. Only thing that kinda sucks is I had a BluRay on my XPS and when I called XPS Support they told me to wait until I get the new machine, call them, send it back to get a BluRay swapped instead of the DVD. Even though the unit is still in production, they can't request them to make the switch.

Specs:
Intel Core i5 540M 2.53GHz-3.06GHz TM
Slot-Loading DVD Burner
4GB Dual Channel DDR3 at 1066MHz,ANWNB
17, WUXGA 1920 x 1200 (1200p),ANWNB
1GB ATI Radeon Mobility HD 4870,ANWNB
Alienware M17x 240W A/C Adapter
640GB Raid 0,2x 320GB,7.2,XMB Cache ,ANB
MS Office Home n Student - ENG
WIN 7 HOME PREM, 64, ENG,AW NB
Alienware Command Center, M17x,ANWNB
BLUETOOTH 2.1
Intel Ultimate N WiFi Link 6300 a/g/n

 

have the two systems side by side the conectors are of different size