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    Power problem with i8600

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by ITF, May 24, 2007.

  1. ITF

    ITF Notebook Consultant

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    Hi guys it seems my Indestructable Inspiron 8600 is running into problems. For the past 6 months the AC power input has been a bit flakey. By that I mean, I had to wiggle the cord around to get it in a nice position for it to actually work. It wasn't a big deal.. so I never looked into it.

    For the past few months it's been getting more and more touchy... taking longer and longer to find an ideal position where the power actually "got through". It wouldn't be so bad if the battery wasn't kapoot, but that's besides the point.

    That brings me to today however, I can no longer find a position for the cord that works, and the battery is dead -- meaning I can't use the laptop. I know it will still boot and post because with the battery plugged in, it begins the boot process until shutting down due to low battery power.

    I just can't seem to get the AC IN working anymore though, I've tried literally every position -- playing with it for 30 minutes might get me a green light for a few seconds but that's all.

    What can I do? Where do I begin to troubleshoot? (PS - it's way out of warranty).
     
    ITF, May 24, 2007
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  2. ITF

    ITF Notebook Consultant

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    A bump because my post is disappearing the problem isn't
     
    ITF, May 24, 2007
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  3. Skye2

    Skye2 Notebook Evangelist

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    The connector for power is most likely connected to the motherboard. The whole motherboard would have to be replaced. You could try a different AC power adapter.
     
    Skye2, May 25, 2007
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  4. solideyex

    solideyex Notebook Enthusiast

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    I'd give dell a call. I had the same problem with my Inspiron 5150 and sent it to dell. It was an issue with the motherboard.
     
    solideyex, May 25, 2007
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  5. Octupi79

    Octupi79 Notebook Enthusiast

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    It could be a problem with the cord that plugs into the laptop since you stated you have to wiggle it at times. I would try a aftermarket ac adapter, I bought a kensington 120 watt adapter model # 33197. This is worth a try and can be found cheap on e-bay, if it doesnt work at least it only cost $40 compared to almost $100 just for diag.
     
    Octupi79, May 25, 2007
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  6. ITF

    ITF Notebook Consultant

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    After much pain and anguish it turns out the problem is the DC adapter jack itself. Dell will have you replace the whole motherboard - an expensive and unnecessary ordeal when not covered by a warranty.

    Luckily you can buy just the DC jack from various sources and unsolder the old one (or pay an expert to do it). Cost runs about $100 USD.
     
    ITF, May 26, 2007
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