Alienware M17x 180W A/C Adapter

Hi Torch672,

Battery backup depends on the usage of the computer. Consumption of battery power is high during games. The screen dims only because of the low battery power.

Here are the few factors which may affect battery performance:

• Processor speed - Enabling features such as Intel Speed Step or AMD Power Now! Extends battery life by automatically adjusting the processor speed to meet system demands. These features are typically enabled by default on computers that support them.
• CD, DVD, CD-RW and hard drive access frequency - Moving files and programs directly to the hard drive, when possible, reduces the number of devices requiring battery power. Adding more memory can also help by reducing the need to use a swap file on the hard drive.
• Programs - Running only the programs that are necessary reduces demands on the system processor and memory. Programs that cause intensive use of the processor and drives (such as playing a DVD movie or 3D games) can more than halve the amount of time that the computer can be used on battery power.
• LCD brightness - Lowering the brightness of the LCD screen reduces the amount of power required by the screen. To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen, press + to increase the brightness or + to decrease the brightness on the LCD display panel.
• Backlit keyboard - Turning off or halfing the brightness of your backlit keyboard can conserve battery power for when you are using your computer. Typically to adjust the brightness of the backlit keyboard, press + to cycle through two brightness settings and the offsetting.
• Power management - Set the computer to enter suspend or hibernate when idle to conserve battery power when the computer is not being used.
• Battery age - A battery's average life expectancy is 1 year. After this time, it is normal to experience a decrease in battery life.
• Battery age/life is in no way shortened, when the portable computer is directly connected to AC Power (power outlet) and continuously used for long period of time. The reason is that the system motherboard automatically stops power flow to battery, as soon the battery is fully charged.

Awaiting your response!

That's all great, except you didn't read the short note. The adapter power light is not on and the computer is now recommending plugging in the power supply as the battery is down to 12%. The adapter is plugged into a known working power surge protector and has been plugged into several other outlets just to check. No green light, either plugged into the computer or not. I've own the computer for a day and a half and it seems to me that the power supply has burned out

Hi Torch672,

Kindly private message the service tag so that I can take the case forward.

To send me a Private Message, click my User name, and then click Start Conversation.

Awaiting your response!