Using Charger / Adapter with lower amp rating

Hi,

I've got a Vostro 1500 and the specs for Dell's charger/adapter can be found here: http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/vos1500/en/om_en/html/specs.htm

Dell's charger: 90W, 19.5V, 4.62A

Is it ok if I use a 90W, 19.5V, 3.34A charger instead? I'm using it right now, charger getting hot though. What do you think? Is it safe to continue using this charger with lower amp rating?

 

If you've got the Intel GPU, it's most likely safe. If you've got the Nvidia GPU, it's still most likely safe, but probably not as good for the machine or the adapter as if you used the 90W brick.

EDIT: The 3.34A brick is a 65W part. The 4.62A brick is a 90W part. They are NOT both rated for 90W.

 

You will get reduced performance.

 

Don't imo. I once damaged a D600's mobo from using a power supply weaker than the stock unit.

right. IIRC from high school physics,

19.5V * 3.34A ~ 65VA = 65W
19.5V * 4.62A ~ 90VA = 90W

 

If the charger is getting hot, it is probably cranking out a lot of current (near the rated 65W max). Based on that, I would stick with a 90W adapter. If the size of the adapter is an issue, I would recommend getting a PA-3E.

 

Not to hijack, but I have a question geared towards this topic. I have been using a Dell 130 watt PSU virtually on every Dell that I have and so far no issues.

Are the laptop PSUs designed like a desktop PSU in that it will only take what it needs, or am I overloading the system board?

 

Yes, the brick only puts out what the laptop needs. The watts of the AC adapter is the maximum rated output.