Diagnosing a Laptop AC Adapter Problem

Laptop AC adapters can sometimes take a lot of abuse. As an external part of a laptop, they are designed to be rugged, but problems can still crop up from time to time. If you suspect that yours may be having an issue, here are some steps for diagnosing a laptop AC adapter problem.

1. Try another power outlet. This may sound silly, but if you are not getting power to your laptop through the AC adapter, try another power socket to ensure that is not the cause of the problem.

2. If possible, try another AC adapter. This may be more difficult, but if you have a friend or a repair shop that has a compatible AC adapter, try one that is known to be working. If the problems still persist, you know the AC adapter is not to blame.

3. Try running the laptop without the battery. Sometimes problems with the battery can cause symptoms unrelated to the AC adapter. If the laptop runs fine when running only from the AC adapter, it is likely caused by a faulty battery or some other component.

4. Look for signs of wear and tear on the AC adapter. Large cracks on the "brick" or transformer could be signs of problems, as can frayed wires or bulging. If any of these conditions look serious, replace your AC adapter.

5. Listen for strange noises. AC adapters that are failing often make whining noises or other strange sounds. Replace the AC adapter if necessary.

If you have tried the steps above and are still uncertain whether your laptop AC adapter is faulty, it may still be a good idea to order a replacement. As one of the least expensive parts of a laptop to replace, it may be worth the peace of mind knowing that your AC adapter is working correctly.