[adidasmons]

The pin inside the computer is either broken off or missing totally. The ac adapter cord works fine but it does nothing when plugged into the computer. The warranty exp. in May 2004 and I dont want to send it to HP for them to fix for $270. Is there anyone else or anyything else I can do personally to get this problem taken care of?

[kiwiguy]

Any competent laptop repairer should be able to do something with it.

A word of warning, and non-competent repairer could destroy the motherboard trying.

If you want some suggestions on where you could take it, then you need to advise just where you are located. People from all over the world are on this forum, so its just not possible to guess.

[adidasmons]

I'm from Illinois. More specificall central Illinois. Thanks for the help so far.

[Cerviperus]

Here at work we have employees that use laptops for "field work". Sony VAIOs to be precise. The thing is... these models tend to have their power supply connectors go bad. With our contract (and out-of-date warranty), Sony wanted something like $600 to do a repair, so I feel your pain.

We use a kind of work-around solution (though I agree, not the most elegan). We purchased several mini docking stations for around $100 ea. This not only fixes the power adapter problem, but also allows us to use full-size monitors if we so desire. Though this isn't really a great solution for someone that uses their laptop for travel, if your laptop sits on a desk most of the time it's not too far out there.

[bearone2]

since when do you need a docking station to run a full size monitor.

plug the monitor into the back of the vga connector on the laptop.

i had an old p100 toshiba which had the vga connector years ago.

[Cerviperus]

Originally Posted by bearone2

since when do you need a docking station to run a full size monitor.

That was my mistake. What I meant was a full-size keyboard. The laptops our consultants use have the compact keyboards. Not to mention the complaints over the "lack" of numpad.

[bearone2]

you can run a full sized keyboard or mouse thru the ps2 connector on the laptop.

Originally Posted by bearone2

you can run a full sized keyboard or mouse thru the ps2 connector on the laptop.

Not all newer laptops come with PS/2 ports.

[bearone2]

thank you for the update.

[JohnWill]

If you find a competent tech, it's not all that difficult to fix the power connector. They are pretty fragile, and I recommend anyone that uses a laptop to be REAL careful when the power cord is plugged in. Since a typical laptop has 60 watts or more of capacity from the power supply, it can do a lot of damage if you break the connector and develop a short. In case anyone is doubtful that this can happen, here's the MB from a Compaq EVO-160 that I replaced with one slightly less charred. The user had intermintent issues with the P/S for about a month, but ignored them.

[winbob]

Adidas,

Been there, Done that :frown:

However, I was able to repair my power plug socket...all the pieces were still there. From what I remember of the attachment of the socket to the MOBO, it would be possible to remove and replace the socket IF you had one to use. You would have to be rather handy with a low wattage needle point soldering iron.

HP's solution would have been to completely replace the MOBO for $150 while I was still under warranty....since it was physical damage.

If I was in YOUR position, and NOT willing to pop for $270, AND a replacement part was not available...which means shortly the laptop will be a boat anchor, when the battery dies... I'd be willing to take more drastic measures.

I would CONSIDER removing the power cord Male plug and Hard Wiring the cord onto the MOBO....being careful of the POLARITY.

A similar but less permanent surgery would be to buy a female plug from Radio Shack, and wire IT externally with a short "pigtail" off the MOBO. This would allow you to still plug and unplug the power supply.

WORST CASE, you mess up the MOBO with your heavy handed soldering and wind up paying HP the original $270.

[JohnWill]

It's actually not that difficult to solder on a surface mount board, but you obviously have to have the right equipment. I've repaired several power connectors, either by replacement, or simply soldering them back on and using some epoxy to put the pieces back together.

[adidasmons]

Thanks for the ideas and advice.

I'm not going to try to do anything myself, ie. tearing it up or sodering it etc., anyways, can I take it to a computer place and show them, have them fix it and make it work again, for cheaper than 270ish? HP wants......How careful do I have to be when letting someone do this.....what's all the talk about wiring to something else? I know computers a little, but I'm not ready yet to be a qualified technician.

[winbob]

Adidas,

Based on what you have said about not wanting to get into the guts of the unit. Forget about doing any repairs yourself, they would require CONSIDERABLE disassembly.

The "wiring" suggestion was a means to by-pass the busted plug if it's not replace'able.

As far as choosing a reputable repair store....unless a friend gives you a reference...it's a crapshoot.

[adidasmons]

I think she got it at Best Buy or Circuit City. I doubt they will take on the task of fixing it because it's not under war. anymore. My best bet is to find a reputiable computer repair center and have them fix it right? As long as it is less than the 270. My biggest concern then is how do I know what needs to be repaired and what they tell me I need to repair?