Laptop batteries

[Mr-H]

My laptop is of course 12v using a transformer for battery charging etc. I have heard that these transformers can sometimes pack up. I have a redundant transformer from a TV which has been dumped. The plug/socket appear to be identical on both bits of kit. If transformer 1 packs up, am I likely to cause damage by using transformer 2?

[Buenchico]

You can only swap power units if ALL of the following are OK:

1. You need to check that you're not replacing a DC supply with an AC one (or vice versa) ;
2. You need to ensure that you're not replacing a stabilised power supply with an unstabilised one (although that shouldn't be a problem for you; both supplies should be stabilised) ;
3. If it's a DC supply you need to check that the polarity of the connector is the correct way round ; and
4. The power rating of the replacement supply must match, or exceed, that of the original unit.

Chris

[Mr-H]

Thanks - easier not to bother and hope for the best! I think the transformer will follow the TV!!

[ChuckFickens]

"My laptop is of course 12v"

Are you sure? that's quite an unusual voltage for modern laptops, 18-19volts is more common.

Laptop power supplies can pack up, just like any piece of electrical equipment, but in my work I'm responsible for about 100 laptops and I've had to purchase replacement power supplies for 2 over a 4 year period and I'm sure both of them have been due to the cable going to the laptop getting broken where it enters the PSU and cables breaking is pretty much guaranteed to be due to "user abuse" (i.e. winding the cable around the PSU too tightly repeatedly).

So basically, take care of it and it's very unlikely to fail, if it does by some chance generally universal power supplies or pattern ones are far cheaper than genuine ones and do the job just as well, I've never had to pay over £25 to replace a power supply.

[Mr-H]

Thanks Chuck. By the way - is your Avatar directed at mine?:)