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    Question about power adapter

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by xgm541, Oct 24, 2008.

  1. xgm541

    xgm541 Notebook Enthusiast

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    I lent my old custom built laptop to a friend, who seems to have burned out the power adapter. Im not 100% sure what's wrong, but i want to eliminate the computer from being the problem.

    Buying a new power adapter costs $80 or so, but i was wondering if i could somehow use my current external hard drive battery adapter to charge the battery of the laptop to eliminate that being a problem.

    The adapter from the laptop has the following stats:
    INPUT: 100-240V~ 2.5A, 50-60Hz
    OUTPUT: 20V 8A 160W

    my adapter has
    Input :100-240V 0.6A 50-60hz
    output : +5v 1.5A
    +12v 1.8A

    is it possible for me to use the adapter i have or will it not be sufficient enough?

    from my understanding, the amp's is not that much of a problem, but it will take forever to charge the battery. But im not sure about the voltages. Any help?
     
  2. PhoenixFx

    PhoenixFx Notebook Virtuoso

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    No, it will not work. Because the voltages have to match (at least be very close, 12v is like almost half of what you need)

    In any case, using different types of adapters to charge your notebook is risky. Try eBay, you should be able to find a proper (3rd party) charger for less than $50
     
  3. danfrain

    danfrain Newbie

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    Check the connection INTO your laptop. The cords tend to twist right at the plug. I've gone through 3 Gateway adapters in 18 months.

    Plug it in and bring the Battery Level display up. If the adapter works at all, you'll see a plug and a "Plugged in and charging notation. Radio Shack sells the plugs in their parts drawers section. A few minutes with a GOOD soldering iron may get you on the way.

    Best of luck to you.