Topic: Laptop Issues

[Canuck]

Hi,

Im trying to fix a laptop for a friend. Dell Inspiron 2200.

It won't turn on. The power adapter has no lights to indicate if its getting power. When I try to boot up the machine, no lights come on. There is no indicator on the battery to show if it is full/empty.

I have been trying to get a hold of another dell power adapter that fits, but haven't had any luck.

I don't know if I can determine exactly what it is without a working power adapter.

Ideas? Suggestions?

Thanks

[jkim]

When my laptop died, it was because the charge point came loose from the motherboard so the battery couldn't charge anymore.

I hope it's not that.

[hans]

I have an old adapter for an I8200, is that the same kind?

My guess though is that it's probably shot. I've never seen a power supply go bad, only what they plug into.

[Canuck]

Just talked to the owner. Apparently they tried an adapter in the store and the salesperson said the power wasn't getting through. I assume it is a similar issue to the one you were having jkim?

Is it possible to resolder the charge point?

>>I've never seen a power supply go bad, only what they plug into.
Thats what people have been saying.

Damn!

[Canuck]

I took apart the laptop to inspect the dc power jack. It seems to be in good shape, its not loose, solder looks good to me.

Is there anyway I can determine that it is in fact the motherboard? or should I attempt to replace the power jack and hope it was broken? Would the computer boot up properly if the CMOS battery was toast?

[KnuckleBuckett]

If the solder is good do not replace the power bulkhead without darn good reason.

Yes your CMOS battery can really screw things up.  Try getting and installing another.  Worst case you are out $3.

[Canuck]

Well I talked to the owner today. They never heard any beeps on startup. It was running off the battery when it died, they tried to use the AC adapter and it wouldnt boot up. The power adapter, when plugged in, gets hot, I assume it is functioning..

I was thinking trying a CMOS battery, if that doesnt work.. what else can I do but try a new dc input jack?

[KnuckleBuckett]

It is far more likely the power regulation system on the mobo.  If it is not the battery and probably isn't, your mobo is shot.

[Canuck]

If the mobo is shot, then its pretty much worthless, you would have to replace it. My thinking is that it is worth a shot to replace the dc input jack.. if it is in fact the power regulation on the mobo, well at least I tried!

Thanks for the help.

[KnuckleBuckett]

G'luck!!