Laptop/netbook charger.

vtmil

Hey, I have yet another problem. While one computer is out of action (thats another thread!) I've just noticed a split in my netbook charger cable, so I'm a bit wary about using it! I have another charger which fits but I'm a bit worried about the varying voltage:

Original charger for netbook:
input 100-240 V 50-60hz 1.0A
output 19V 1.58A

Spare charger I wish to use:
input 100-240 V 1.6A 50-60hz
output 18.5V 3.5 A

Can anybody explain what the above means please? Can I use it or not?

Thank you
vtmil

ssedd

The output voltage of your spare power supply is not enough
Spare charger I wish to use:
input 100-240 V 1.6A 50-60hz
output 18.5V 3.5 A

This needs to be 19volts to match your original charger. If you go to somewhere like Maplins they will have a charger that will do the job just give them the details from your old charge.

fwor

As ssedd says, Maplin sell a range of universal laptop power supplies, such as this one:

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=225874

However, the spare charger that you have will probably work just fine - provided the connector type is the same. All of the critical parts of the laptop work at much lower voltages than 19 Volts, and supplies to these are well regulated and should cope with minor variations in the supply. The battery may take slightly longer to charge fully, though.

The good thing about the replacement is that it differs from the original in two safe ways - it is a lower voltage and can handle higher current, so - provided the connector is compatible (both shape/size and polarity) there is little risk of causing harm by trying it.

timbim_2

When you say a split in the cable, what do you mean exactly? If it's just the outer casing, I'd be temped to wrap it up with a bit of insulating tape, or if it's a bit more serious, you could always use a bit of junction strip. Probably not such a good idea if it's the mains voltage bit that's gone, but if that's the case, you could just shorten the cable.

benjus

timbim wrote: »

When you say a split in the cable, what do you mean exactly? If it's just the outer casing, I'd be temped to wrap it up with a bit of insulating tape, or if it's a bit more serious, you could always use a bit of junction strip. Probably not such a good idea if it's the mains voltage bit that's gone, but if that's the case, you could just shorten the cable.

I'd agree with this - not worth spending money on a new charger for just a cable split. The strands of the wires on the low voltage end (the cable that plugs into the laptop) can just be twisted together and wrapped in some insulating tape. On the mains voltage end (the cable that plugs into the wall) you can just cut it off and wire a new plug. If you're totally uncomfortable with anything electrical, try to find a friend who could do it - it's not something that requires an electrician.