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May 17th, 2005 06:00

Computer will no longer connect with AC adapter

Hey all, i have an inspiron 8600. It's a great notebook, however 4 days ago i started having trouble with the computer sparatically reading the power cord. I did notice that the cord was a bit loose. Then a few days later the computer stopped reading the cord all together. So as of now my 8600 is a really expensive paper weight (sorry for the cliche). I am wondering if there is another way to fix the issue without replacing the motherboard because that is not really an option at this time, and if my memory serves me, and correct me if i'm wrong, i believe a new motherboard runs about $700. In which case i might be cheaper to buy a new or refurbished laptop. I had thought that perhaps the copper connecting plates had been bent out of place and that perhaps i could go inside and bend them back in to place. Any help would be appreciated. If replacing the motherboard is the absolute only way, i would appreciate if i were told. However until then i will not give up hope. So thanks again for your time and thoughts.

May 17th, 2005 10:00

i am having the same problem with an inspiron.  i went into the BIOS setup, and checked the status of my adapter and abttery.  they are trying to tell me the motherboard, but i dont understand when i went into the BIOS setup, next to the ac adapter on pg 5 i believe, it kept changing from 90 w to unknown to none and the battery status kept changing from idle to discharging.  to me it sounds like the adapter, wish i couldhave been more help for you and myself!

131 Posts

May 18th, 2005 01:00

the changing power status suggests that it is the AC connector socket on the motherboard that is faulty. It could be breaking loose from where it is soldered onto the motherborad. This does happen with repeated pulgging in and out. Check if your warranty is still valid and call DELL if it is.

If not, check the power output from the adapter with a volt meter. If you are brave, pull out the motherboard and closely inspect the AC socket area. Re-solder the connector feet if need be. If there are cracks in the motherboard around the connector, you will need a new motherboard.  

May 24th, 2005 08:00

Same problem here. An Inspiron 1150. Started playing up about a week after the warranty expired. Sometimes it acknowledges the AC adaptor; sometimes it doesn't. Usually a little jiggling of the connector at the socket will fix it, but not always. It's a niggling annoyance from an otherwise nice little unit.

5 Posts

May 24th, 2005 22:00

hey guys

today i ordered a new motherboard $469. I disassembled the computer (completely) and took a gander at the motherboard and had someone who knows about electronics and he sauder the connections and it didn't fix it, so i gave up and bought it :smileymad: but now my laptop will work! yay! and the wiggling is the preface to the computer failing to charge completely.

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