When the plug is in my notebook it feels loose and doesn't charge.
I have to move the plug around or press it in to get it to start charging.
Is the problem the plug in or the notebook?
Sheryll , , Canada
That all depends on which charger you;'re using.
If you're using the original (correct) charger and the plug feels loose in the socket, then the problem is probably in the notebook. Luckily that's a simple problem for any computer repair shop to fix. Or even a nimble home handy-person should be able to do it.
The most common sort of notebook power connector looks like this.
and the socket that matches it on the notebook looks like this. (Purists could argue about which is the plug and which is the socket, but for convenience let;s call the part on the charger the "plug".)
The circuit consists of two conductors - the centre pin/hole and the outer sleeve/contact. That outer contact on the socket is springy so that when the plug is inserted into it the springiness holds the plug in place and also pushed the plug slightly so that the centre pin makes good contact with the hole in the plug. Over time it;'s possible that the contact loses it's springiness or gets pushed out of the way or is deformed. Often all that's needed is to (carefully) open the notebook case and bend the contact back into the correct place. That is, restore it's springiness.
Unfortunately not all power sockets are of this open design and if your notebook has an enclosed socket it may need to be replaced. But even this probably isn't a complicated or expensive process. Of course if the notebook is still covered by warranty then this should be free.
The other possible problem is that you're using the wrong charger. There are LOTS of different sizes of these plugs and sockets and it's quite possible that the one you have fits and works, but is loose. Again the computer repair shop will be able to assist.
The other possibility is that the plug and socket are okay, but it's the lead's termination at the plug that's faulty. A broken wire or connection could give the sort of "loose" feeling you're getting. Once again, it's off to the repair shop or competent handy-person.
Even if your power plug and socket look different to these, the same information probably applies.
Good luck.
Paul Zuckerbert loretoPosted: 30/06/2008
re: How can I fix a wobbly power lead?
A plug always has a PIN and enters a socket. Thus the first image is a an INLINE SOCKET and the second one is a PANEL PLUG as it bears the pin! (inline plugs and panel sockets are the opposites)
NOW assuming the panel socket is solid and has no movement, it must be considered to be good but not as the most expensive to fix, lets start with the alternative.
The most common problem as described by Sheryll is the wrong choice of the diameter of INLINE SOCKET. Althout the outer diameter is mostly correct for most panel plugs, the inner diameter is probabaly too large; total reliance is placed upon the spring to push it over and touch the centre pin. Go to an electronics store and buy a correct snug fitting inline socket($1.00), then got o a TV repairer or autoelectrician($10-19) to get it fitted to the power pack. If this exercise costs more than $20 you may be dealing with seriously greedy people so as a matter of principle dump them and buy another plugpack BUT be wary of the diameters! cheers Bert