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    Can I safely switch between these two AC Adapters?

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by SoundsGood, Sep 28, 2008.

  1. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    The AC adapter that came with my Sony FW laptop is a Sony VGP-AC19V23, with the following specs:

    SONY
    Input: 100-240V~ 1.3A 50-60Hz
    Output: 19.5V -- 4.7A

    I'd like to use a Dell "Slim" Auto/Air/AC Adapter that I already own as a second adapter, but I'm concerned about blowing up my FW. ;) Here are the Dell adapter specs:

    DELL
    Input: AC = 100-240V~ 1.5A 50-60Hz
    Output: 19.5V -- 3.34A

    Note the differences in bold.

    So, will I be able to safely switch between these two AC Adapters? Or will I be taking a chance of killing the laptop?

    Thanks...
     
    SoundsGood, Sep 28, 2008
    #1
  2. bulik

    bulik Notebook Consultant

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    it's not safe. as per you sony's specs, your machines draws more power than the dell adapter can supply. your performance will suffer and might damage/overload your dell power adapter.
     
    bulik, Sep 28, 2008
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  3. jh2

    jh2 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Matching the voltage prevents 'blowing up' the laptop. However, the output amperage indicates how much current is available for the laptop to consume from the power adapter. Having a amperage rating higher than the factory spec is ok because the laptop will only suck as much current as it needs.

    The Dell can only put out 3.3A vs the Sony's 4.7 and this may overload the Dell adapter since the FW will try to suck more current than the Dell can provide. I would not use the Dell
     
    jh2, Sep 28, 2008
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  4. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    What about this Dell adapter I just found upstairs:

    Dell 90W AC Adapter
    Input: AC 100-240V~ 1.5A 50-60Hz
    Output: 19.5V -- 4.62A

    Would this one be okay, or no go?
     
    SoundsGood, Sep 28, 2008
    #4
  5. nizzy1115

    nizzy1115 Notebook Prophet

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    Nonono. Don't even try it unless you want a dead motherboard.
     
    nizzy1115, Sep 28, 2008
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  6. jh2

    jh2 Notebook Enthusiast

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    jh2, Sep 28, 2008
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  7. SoundsGood

    SoundsGood Notebook Virtuoso

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    Gotcha, thanks. :D
     
    SoundsGood, Sep 28, 2008
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