Gateway Parts

notebook ac adapter problem?

i thought the problem was from the adapter so i went to buy another adapter, turns out the problem occurs between the notebook computer power adapter attachment and the "notebook connection part", it's very loose, i have to hold it so it can charge. how can i fix this?

Public Comments

1. As a temporary fix, use cellophane tape or some adhesive tape to hold it in contact. If the laptop is new, take it to a service center or call customer care to fix that.
2. The problem is the DC jack. The little jack inside your computer where the power plugs into. It's broken free from the motherboard. This is a common problem. It's usually caused by forgetting it's plugged in, and trying to move it, and the plug "yanks" that DC jack, and breaks the metal solder connections to the motherboard. You don't notice it for a while, cause battery is powering laptop, or the DC jack has an "intermittant" connection (ie depending on how cord is flexed, it makes it connect) It can also happen with use, too. This is something you cannot fix yourself. I mean, I guess you could, if you get a docking station that provides power, and has a DC jack of it's own (not the laptop DC jack) That would work, but you'd no longer be able to use power adapter to charge, have to use docking station. That's sidestepping the problem, but it is an option :) Next, you need to find a place that deals with resoldering components. "Big Box" repairshops will simply just tell you motherboard is bad, and replace the whole motherboard. But that's not needed. Call around to local places, or walk into them. Ask "Do you guys resolder DC jacks in laptops?" (resolder is pronounced "Re-Sod-er") If you get a stupid look, find somewhere else. You can expect to pay from $100-$150+ for labor depending on area/place. Whole laptop has to be taken apart. It's probably just a labor job, but if jack has to be replaced that part is $2-50 at retail. Note it's possible your motherboard IS bad, but only trust that to a place who can resolder dc jacks. It's only rarely the motherboard is bad, like cases where it shorted and damaged nearby components. Be wary of "holding" as a fix, as that is inviting damaging other components. Can short out against a nearby capacitor, heat sink, etc... Can even start a mini fire, at which point, motherboard is toast at least.