Message and no charging after using Targus Power Source Inspiron 8500

I have exactly the same problem - surely there is some fix for this ?

All,

Unfortunately, it sounds like the micro-chip on the motherboard that detects the AC adaptor may be damaged, you probably will need a new motherboard.

The problem is the AC adapter, don't be conned into an expensive motherboard replacement. These Dell adapter have the worst working life of any I have experienced (6-12 months at best). The problem stems from the Dell adapter normally sending a signal to the computer to verify it is a Dell original adpater. When this bit of the adapter circuitry fails, the computer thinks you have a non-Dell supplied adapter, steps down the processor speed and stops charging the battery (probably to penalise you for buying non-Dell stuff even though it is a Dell part). Buy a new Dell AC adapter and you are back in business. I have 2 Dell adapters, one is not recognised by the system and the other one is recognised = no fault in the motherboard.

Dell make a fortune out of selling replacement AC adapters so I am sure they would love to sell you another one.

It would be good if it is just the power supply, but I'm suspicious because it was working fine the day I left, I plugged in the Targus on the plane, and when I got here it didn't work.

So, now I'm not sure what to do, except I'm regretting buying the adaptor, and especially from Dell if they make me buy a motherboard after blowing it with something I bought from them.  The big problem is, if I fix the motherboard, do I then try the Targus again and burn it out?  I'm gonna try to return the travel adaptor this really bites way too much time and effort!

What Fat Cat is saying makes sense to me, i will purchase a new ac adaptor and let you know the result