Thank you for your answer.

Two points :-

1) I would like to make sure that it is really a battery problem before I buy a replacement battery

2) Dell do not seem to sell the replacement part

For point 2, please see the separate thread I have created en.community.dell.com/.../20369399.aspx .

Any additional help on point 1 also appreciated.

Hi Pete,

All rechargeable batteries wear out with time and usage. It seems to be an issue with the battery. BIOS update may not be possible as battery should be 10%> or >10% charged. You may try connecting an alternate battery (if available) and check. Else, the battery might have to be replaced.

Please reply if you have any questions.

Thanks again.

I am based in the UK.

Hi Pete,

Unfortunately, there isn't a way to check the battery functionality apart from connecting a different battery. Since, the system shuts down when the battery is connected; mostly like the battery is at fault. Here are the part#'s for the battery: NMV5C, 75WY2.

If you are in the USA, you may contact our spare parts department on 1-800-372-3355.
Let me know if you are in a different country.

Hi Pete,

You may call our Sales team in UK on 0844-444-5818.

8 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Friday.
9 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday.
10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday. 

Please reply if you have any questions.

I have been experiencing the same problem with my XPS for about 2 years. The battery has been replaced with a new one but the problem persist. It must be a laptop issue and it has kept me tied to an AC power cable. What additional reasons could there be for this?

Beachcomers

Its obviously not the battery the dell rep suggested. Im sure if you went to your bios and looked at the adaptor it would say "none". Its either the mobo or something wacked with bios 12. Have the same problem and hope to find out soon.