Dell power adapter failures?

Question

I'm on my second dell power adapter for my Inspiron 1525, and today it has failed. No green light when I plug the adapter into the wall. Browsing the internet, I have found several threads that have comments by people going through 2 adapters or more per a year. Why is the power adapter problem so prevalent in Dell laptops and is there any solution?

This time my computer is out of warranty, so I'll have to pay out of pocket to get a new adapter. When I purchased a Dell laptop, I did not expect an added expense of 60-120$ a year for replacing failing adapters. Clearly, there is a problem with Dell adapters, so why isn't there a remedy that doesn't cause the consumer to foot the bill for a engineering problem on Dell's part?

ejn63 · Answer

The single biggest cause of failure I've seen is user error - usually resulting in a break in the wire on the DC side.

They are nowhere near that expensive.

http://www.parts-people.com/index.php?action=item&id=299

Krugger · Answer

I'd definitely recommend buying a 3rd part one, perhaps even one that in a universal charger that can be used for other laptops too. it should last much longer then these cheap dell ones...

also, it's not user error in the least.

homegr0wn · Answer

Never had this problem with the 3 other laptops I have owned, so I'm ruling that out.

And you're right. 40-80$ is surely a lot less. Wow, I don't mind spending 40-80$ a year replacing something that is badly engineered.

ejn63 · Answer

Be careful with third-party adapters - they will power the system but will often not charge the battery.

homegr0wn · Answer

Thanks for the advice! I'll definitely look for a substitute.

I know it's not user error, too, because I always take premium care of my laptop and components because all of my life/work information is on my laptop. The cord has never been stepped on, bent, pulled, run over, or utilized in a manner that's inconsistent with the recommended use.User error is a company's first line of defense for claims against their products.

Just bothersome that Dell is or should be aware of the problem, but has failed to procure a remedy.

ninelives58 · Answer

This is my understanding also.  From what I've read, the pin in the center of the plug serves to identify the adapter type, and if it's not a Dell adapter, then the battery won't charge.  Hard to believe that it's set up this way though.  There are so many aftermarket adapters out there.  And you can't use them??!!

homegr0wn · Answer

So, they're poorly made, problematic and PROPRIETARY?!?! Nice... another way to make money off of laptops on top of the initial expenditure. Can anyone recommend a third party adapter that has worked?

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Dell power adapter failures?

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