Problem with laptop power cord, jack, charging or AC/DC adapter

Warning! Before Disassembling Laptop always remove battery. See the expanded text below the flowcharts for explanation of each step.

Because laptops are designed to be portable and function on battery power, they are engineered to run on the DC (Direct Current) power that batteries provide. But all of the power distribution networks in the modern world utilize AC (Alternating Current) because it's a more efficient and economical way to move electricity long distances.This means that laptops are shipped with an AC adapter that plugs into a regular outlet and converts that AC power into the proper DC voltage for the laptop.

Most modern AC adapters for laptops can function on a power grid ranging from 100 to 240 volts AC. You should take a look at the label on the AC adapter, often called a "brick" before you go traveling around the world. All that's needed to plug a variable AC adapter into a different power grid is a new end for the plug, purchased at a local hardware store for around a dollar.

If your laptop doesn't turn on when you hit the power button, the power system is a logical place to begin the troubleshooting process. The laptop power system can be viewed as three separate parts: The A/C adapter that gets plugged into a power outlet on one end and into the laptop on the other end, the laptop motherboard or power regulation daughter card that monitors and distributes power to the laptop components, and the battery. The vast majority of laptops manufactured these days can operate without the battery installed. In some cases, the manufacturers will suggest that you remove the battery and store it somewhere cool if using the laptop in one location for extended periods of time, as in weeks or months. In all instances, it pays to read the owner's manual on how to best extend the battery life for the particular model.