Please help me troubleshoot this power problem.

Laptop: Sony VAIO PCG-Z1VAP

Symptom: When the laptop is attached to the docking station, the power constantly switches back-and-forth from AC to battery.

The dock is made by Sony, specific to this model. Unfortunately this part is no longer manufactured, nor is any of this equipment still under warranty.

When not plugged into the dock, this problem does not occur. The same power supply is used for both dock and non-docked operation.

The pin inside the AC jack on the dock is centered and straight.

Any thoughts, ideas, and/or suggestions would be much appreciated!

 

That is very strange. I'm wondering what would happen if you took the battery out of the notebook and then tryed it. Has it always done this?

 

Thanks for the reply.

Yes, the dock has always exhibited this behavior. I'll try it without the battery and report back.

 

Try updating your BIOS and also any drivers that you can get from Sony.

 

Another thing you may want to check (if you haven't done it already) is your power management settings but I don't think there is a parameter for docking stations. I have never used one myself.