1525 Power Adapter Causing Problems

Question

The power adapter for my Dell 1525 (Vista OS) is causing at least 2 problems: 1) If I leave it plugged in when the Computer is shutdown, the computer spontaneously boots up to Dell Media Direct . (as if there is a ghost in the machine - ha ha). 2) Also (again, If i leave it plugged in when the Computer is shutdown), the next time I boot up the clock is way off. The computer has NO such problems if I work solely off of battery power. Despite these problems, the power adapter charges the battery with no problems, provided I charge it when the computer is turned on. I have been researching this for a bit of time and I believe it has something to do with the center pin of power adapter, which I have been led to believe, is he path of communication between the adapter and the computer. I was going to buy another power supply but, I don't want to buy another Dell ( PA-12) defective product to replace the one I have. Also, the problem may lie in the communicating and not the hardware.  I am up to date on all Dell and Vista Patches, but maybe one of you 1525 owners out there have the solution. In the interim I will work around the problems by keeping the adapter disconnected during down time.

LaptopNomad · Answer

DELL is known for adding an ID chip to the AC adapter - it tells the laptop it's type / identity.

A known phenomena is to shut down battery charging when the AC adapter identity is unknown.

Read about the dell battery charging system here DELL Battery charging system

Here's a bit about the PA-12 charger difference between PA-10 and PA-12

Cheers

nicmann · Answer

Very helpful nfo regarding the flawed power adapter. What external battery chargers are available for Dell XPS M170? nicmann

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