Contact Us Categories: Dell
Published on July 10th, 2010
Dell Laptop Power Adapter Problem
If you receive a message stating “The AC adapter type cannot be determined. This will prevent optimal system performance. Strike F3 key ( before F1 or F2 key) if you don’t want to see power warning messages again” then there are a few things you can try before replacing the laptop power adapter. Before you begin, however, you should first double-check to make sure you are using the same power adapter that came with your Dell laptop. Once you have confirmed that, try the following.
Dell Laptop Power Adapter Troubleshooting
- Unplug the power adapter from both the laptop and the wall and leave it unplugged for a couple of minutes.
- Remove the laptop battery. The battery compartment is on the bottom of the laptop case.
- Plug the adapter back in to the wall and the laptop.
Other Dell Laptop Power Adapter Tips
If you continue to receive that error message, try a different outlet in the house. If you are still having issues after you have tried all of that, you can try updating the Dell laptop’s BIOS. To download a new BIOS for you Dell, go to the Dell support website and look up your computer’s model or enter the service tag number. You can find all driver downloads–including a new BIOS–for your computer at the Dell Drivers and Downloads site.
If you continue to receive that error message, or if your Dell laptop develops other power issues, you should consider replacing the Dell laptop power adapter or take the laptop in for service.
Mostly it’s power jack issue. one of dc jack legs which connected on motherboard to controller which detects Ac Adapter is broken or loose. In that case you will need to replace dc jack.nSometimes you can use ac adapter with higher wattage. it may be temporary solution. but best go to tech, and replace dc jack.
its the data cable in the power cord that has broken , most of the cases happens right by the jack that plugs into the dell, the silicon in that plastic mould around the jack hardens and cracks causing the britel red middle data cable to brake hence copmuter no longer recoginse it
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5s9guCcRmw
how i fixed my dell prob
Yep, Best way to replace dc jack. Probably it’s loose. 99%
If you confident with your skills, you can try it yourself. Otherwise go to tech store.
i used a after market power adaptor on my dell mini because the kids had misplaced the original, it made a pop and ark sound at the wall socket and now the computer will not boot, just a black screen but the power light is on. i now have my original dell adaptor but it still does nothing. can anyone give me some suggestions on what could be wrong. this computer has only been used three times
My inspiron 1501 has a black screen. The lock with a “a” on it and the one next to it with an arrow pointing down are lit.I have power but can’t get any further. Any ideas?