random use of different notebook transformers

Mar 15, 2007 22 Replies

Hi!

No! You were *definitely* correct. I'm here to say that substituting laptop power supplies between different models and makers (as long as the connectors are completely compatible!) is generally OK as long as you have checked the voltage (both listed and what is actually being put out when unloaded), current rating and polarity *first*. The voltage should be exact and the polarity had better match as well. Current supply can be higher or equal to what the computer expects.

There is some leeway in most designs for current draw and possibly voltage, but you can't always count on this and won't find it documented anywhere short of personal experience.

If you don't check these factors before plugging things in, you're looking at the possibility of causing anything from instant destruction on up to slow cumulative damage to the computer.

William

Hi!

Hmm...impressive bang? Lots of smoke? Sudden bright light from within? Sound output equivalent to a 1,000 watt home theater system but only for a second?

William

I think I saw geesus, but IIRC the smoke got out. I was probably after the 1000 watt stereo effect, hell I was only a 9yo kid sniffing glue. [*] And back then, we thought Mad magazine was an anarchist publication. ;)

[*] moms rule "no model = no glue"
Robb

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