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    How picky are laptops re: power adapter voltage?

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by db91977, Dec 12, 2009.

  1. db91977

    db91977 Newbie

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    I'm curious - how picky are most laptop computers regarding the voltage supplied by their A.C. adapters? Example - if I have a laptop that has a 20V, 6A DC power rating, will it work if I use a 19V, 6.3A adapter (obviously, with the same connector and connector polarity)?

    19V is only about 5% below 20V, so I'm wondering if an adapter with that spec (19V, 6.3A) would power my 20V laptop.

    --db
     
    db91977, Dec 12, 2009
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  2. Judicator

    Judicator Judged and found wanting.

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    That will really depend heavily on the specific model of notebook. In general, even though the wattage is about the same, the lesser voltage of the adapter you're proposing may not be enough to drive the components of the notebook motherboard power circuits. At an uneducated guess, it might be enough to keep the notebook running, but may not be enough to boot it up or charge the battery. It's really hard to say.
     
    Judicator, Dec 12, 2009
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  3. moral hazard

    moral hazard Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    moral hazard, Dec 12, 2009
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  4. sean473

    sean473 Notebook Prophet

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    if it has the same potential difference , there should be not problem... however if the current is too little , ur laptop might not boot... also if it is too high , u'll roast your motherboard... get an official adapter... u don't want a toasted laptop..
     
    sean473, Dec 12, 2009
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  5. Amnesiac

    Amnesiac 404

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    General consensus is not to mix adapters and notebooks.

    Cheers...
     
    Amnesiac, Dec 12, 2009
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  6. jackluo923

    jackluo923 Notebook Virtuoso

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    Normally.. the potential difference (V) is within 10-15% of the spec. it's totally acceptable.
     
    jackluo923, Dec 12, 2009
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