subject: Diagnose Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter power supply problem [print this page] Invest in a high quality Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter. Do some research before you purchase one. More wattage on the package doesn't mean better. Most home PCs don't actually use more than 300W even though this is not what power supply marketing people want you to know. The unit should provide adequate wattage for your needs. Don't skimp on the Dell AC Adapter, as you may regret it later. Power supplies that fail can damage other components in your computer, especially the motherboard.
If you've gone through multiple power supplies in a short period of time you MAY have a faulty outlet. This is exacerbated by cheap power supplies as they are not hardy pieces of equipment.
If you purchased a Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter it is possible that the start up current demand from the hard drives could push demands over powe supply's limit. Dell AC Adapterwattage have "maximum" definitions which may benefit the manufacturer. If two power supplies both have "switching" designs and made by brand name manufacturers consider using their weight as a sign of ability. Larger heat sinks and capacitors weigh more.
Don't attempt to open a Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter unit to attempt repairs or experiment with the parts if you're not familiar with working with high voltage circuits. The primary side of laptop ac adapter operates around 3V DC. Power supplies contain capacitors which can hold dangerous charge for a few minutes. Usually the integral bleeder resistor ensures the capacitor does not remain charged for much longer than a few minutes. Most problems are not repairable by the home user. Refer the unit to a qualified electrician, or better yet, recycle it and replace it with a new or refurbished one as described here. The cost of having a Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter repaired is often more than the cost of a replacement unit. Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter Description: http://www.papatek.com/Dell-Adapter/Dell-XPS-M2010-AC-Adapter.html
Input: AC100-240V (worldwide use)
Output: DC19.5V 4.62A
Power: 90W
Outlet: 3-prong
Connecter size:
Internal Diameter: 5.0mm
External Diameter: 7.4mm
With pin inside
Item Includes: AC Adapter and Power Cord
Performance: Short Circuit Protection and Overload Protection
Condition: new
100%OEM compatible, guaranteed to meet or exceed OEM specifications! Dell AC Adapter maintaining tips: Keep your Dell laptop running at full power using this AC adapter
Power your electronics from the wall and save your battery
Enhanced internal circuitry manages charging status to prevent over or under charging
Built-in fuse prevents damage to your notebook during sudden spikes in voltage See more information on: http://www.papatek.com
Diagnose Dell XPS M2010 AC Adapter power supply problem
