Is the charger properly connected? Some chargers use interchangeable power
leads at the end that goes to the wall outlet; this allows for use of plugs with
differing designs as required around the world. Make sure the lead is properly
attached to the charger and that the charger is plugged into the laptop.The adapter may have failed
Although commonly called a battery charger,on most laptops the equipment
is actually a voltage converterthat works with circuitry within the laptop to
do two things: charge the battery and run the computer from wall current.
The charger converts 110 or 220 volts of AC to DC voltage generally in the
range of 5 to 20 volts; the conversion usually creates a bit of heat. The con-
verter should not get hot enough to boil your morning coffee. If you see
smoke or smell the distinctive acrid odor of burning electrical components,
carefully unplug the converter and seek a replacement.Adapter failure is a relatively rare occurrence, although it can be damaged by
a power surge, hurt by a poorly regulated current, or suffer cut, crimped, or
ripped plugs or wires.Here’s are some clues that can help you determine if the AC adapter is getting
power from the wall, and if the laptop is getting voltage from the adapter.
Look for a small pilot light on the AC adapter to indicate the presence of
power; if the lamp is not lit, the charger may be dead. And many laptops
display a little symbol or light to indicate the presence of an outside power
source; if it’s not there, something is wrong.Assault and no battery ........................................................................
You’re at 30,000 feet and the flight attendant announces that it’s now permis-
sible to use electronic devices. You carefully shift your feet, tuck in your
elbows, remove your laptop from its case, and place it on the seatback table.
But when you call for action, the laptop is as lifeless as an airline terminal
tuna sandwich.Electrical problems when you’re not running on wall current could be related
to the battery itself or the battery recharger. Or, the recharger might not have
received proper current when it was plugged into a wall outlet. Here are some
troubleshooting steps:Is your battery installed properly in its slot and plugged into the elec-
trical connectors?On some laptops, the battery is held in place by a
simple clip or sliding latch; it can become dislodged while you travel.
On one trip, I arrived at my destination to find that the battery was
completely missing — it was sitting home alone alongside my desk. On
another trip, the battery came out of its attachment pins while going
through the X-ray machine at an airport security check. Take the time to
study your laptop’s design and assess the chances of a battery incident.30 Part II: Explaining What Could Possibly Go Wrong