Do I need NEW AC POWER ADAPTER or NEW BATTERY?? Confusing!

nancyadams · 07-12-2008, 08:44 AM

When I turn on my Dell Laptop, I get the message "AC power adaptor type cannot be determined. This will prevent optimal system performance" It also states "To resolve this issue, try to reseat the power adapter"

I googled the above, and it said I either need a new power cord or a new battery.

I ordered a new cord...but I also notice that the minute I try to use my computer without being plugged in, the battery warning comes up! hmmmm That implies my battery sucks.

So do I need to ALSO order a new battery??

And what does it mean to "reseat" the power adapter? AND....should I do the recommendation to do F2 to run setup utility??

**wrench97** · 07-12-2008, 09:17 AM

By reseating the power adapter they mean to unplug it and replug it which you've probably all ready done.
If you have access to the same power adapter maybe from a friend or associate I would try that first.
The battery warning may just be because the battery has not been charging, though you could try removing and reinstalling the battery.

07-12-2008, 08:44 AM	#1 (permalink)
nancyadams Registered User Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 3 OS: XP	Do I need NEW AC POWER ADAPTER or NEW BATTERY?? Confusing! When I turn on my Dell Laptop, I get the message "AC power adaptor type cannot be determined. This will prevent optimal system performance" It also states "To resolve this issue, try to reseat the power adapter" I googled the above, and it said I either need a new power cord or a new battery. I ordered a new cord...but I also notice that the minute I try to use my computer without being plugged in, the battery warning comes up! hmmmm That implies my battery sucks. So do I need to ALSO order a new battery?? *And what does it mean to "reseat" the power adapter? AND....should I do the recommendation to do F2 to run setup utility??*

07-12-2008, 09:17 AM	#2 (permalink)
wrench97 Moderator, Hardware Team Join Date: May 2008 Location: S.E. Pennsylvania Posts: 18,868 OS: Win7	Re: Do I need NEW AC POWER ADAPTER or NEW BATTERY?? Confusing! By reseating the power adapter they mean to unplug it and replug it which you've probably all ready done. If you have access to the same power adapter maybe from a friend or associate I would try that first. The battery warning may just be because the battery has not been charging, though you could try removing and reinstalling the battery. __________________ Power Supply and Selection