subject: Can Laptops Share the Same AC Adapter [print this page] There are always heatedly discussed whether the adapters can be replaced by other brand adapters. As different people have different viewpoints, there is no final conclusion. Take this HP pavilion Dv5117tx AC adapter for instance to show you why it can not share the same adapter.
The first factor is the voltage. Different laptop manufactures use different voltage. This HP pavilion Dv5117tx AC adapter adopts 18.5 V. but for other brand laptop, they use 16V, 19.5V and so on. This is very important to keep in mind.
The second is the current that each laptop requires, which is different from 2A~5.4A. the small laptops needs less current, and vice versa. This HP is in demand of 3.5A.
Third, each company laptop power adapter interfaces are different. It is difficult to plug in if they have different interfaces. In addition, some have 2-prong crocket, others are 3-prong.
Generally, different laptops can not share the same ac adapter. But that doesn't mean you have to buy the same adapter as the original one. Like this HP pavilion Dv5117tx AC adapter, I bought this online and it's a replacement of my original adapter. And this adapter is with unknown brand. However, the reasonable price and its present working condition make me very satisfied.
When we refer to incompatible, it means the different brands of different voltage, current, and interfaces. There are more and more compatible products that fit for your laptop. The top three factors are the obstacles. Then when we choose a replacement adapter, the first consideration is the part number. You can see that there is thorough information of each laptop AC adapter on the online store. They have post the voltage, current and the compatible models with the product. The only thing that you should do is to find an expertise store online. If you have any question, you can check with the customer service center. They will do your favor.
All in all, it depends on practical operation. Some compatible adapters don't work, too. While some did work perfectly as the original ones.
