subject: How to Identify an AC Adapter [print this page] How to Identify an AC Adapter How to Identify an AC Adapter
Laptop users may be presented with an error message reading "Unable to identify dell inspiron 1545 AC adapter" after plugging in their laptop. This error indicates that your laptop is unable to use the adapter. One of several hardware errors --- with the adapter, the power source, the laptop battery or the motherboard --- is to blame. To help you narrow the source of the issue, work through the following troubleshooting steps.
Check the Acer extensa 711 AC adapter pin to make sure that the connection is secure. Sometimes this error is caused simply by a bent connector pin. If the pin is not straight or the connection feels loose, see if the pin can be easily straightened by hand. If not, a replacement adapter is in order. If this step did not solve the problem, move on to Step 2.
Plug the adapter into a different wall socket or power strip. Sometimes the fault is with the adapter's power source, not with the adapter itself. If the computer recognizes the adapter on a different socket, then the wall socket is not providing power.
If all your sockets are functioning normally, continue to Step 3.
Unplug the original toshiba satellite A300 adapter from the computer. Connect a second adapter to the computer. If the second adapter works without any problems, then the fault is with the original adapter. The original adapter will need to be replaced.
If the error message still appears with the second adapter, then it is either a faulty battery or a damaged motherboard. Determining which of these issues is to blame will depend on the error message, which, in turn, will depend on the make and model of your laptop. Contact your laptop manufacturer's customer service department to discuss the problem. It is possible that they will be able to issue you a replacement under warranty.
