Dell Computers with a Non-Dell Adapter Connected Cannot Turn On if the Battery is Below Five Percent

Summary: Learn about Dell computers being unable to turn on when the battery is below 5% and a non-Dell adapter is connected (both barrel and Type-C adapters).

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Symptoms

Affected Platforms:

  • Dell 16 DC16251
  • Dell 16 DC16250

If the computer is turned off and the battery is less than 5%. The user cannot use a non-Dell adapter to turn the computer on.

Cause

Following the DELL power policy, non-Dell power sources requires a battery charge of 5% or greater to power on the computer. If a non-Dell source is charging the battery, the EC blocks the computer from starting until the battery reaches 5% or greater.

Resolution

To resolve, connect a DELL 65W adapter, or if using a non-DELL adapter, wait until the battery has been charged to 5% or greater.

Affected Products

Dell 16 DC16250, Dell 16 DC16251
Article Properties
Article Number: 000387755
Article Type: Solution
Last Modified: 04 Nov 2025
Version:  1
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