Many manufacturers of laptops, tablets and mobile phones use standard power and data connectors. However, some companies, such as Samsung or the American HP, DELL and even Lenovo, release them with slightly modified contacts, which is why they are incompatible with other models, although they are suitable for the form factor. Another example is Apple, which uses its own connectors that are incompatible with other manufacturers. It is worth noting modern compact ultrabooks using a power connector similar to tablets. This is due to the low power compared to classic laptops.
What are the power connectors for laptops?
The most common connectors can be considered hollow cylindrical. They are equipped with almost all classic laptops. The exceptions are Apple models and compact low power models. They can be charged via MicroUSB or via the new USB Type-C. Apple logo devices use their own first or second generation MagSafe inputs.
Standard connectors may vary in geometric sizes from different manufacturers. Different locations and number of contacts are also possible. For many manufacturers, they differ, and it is important to correctly determine the required connector, otherwise you can break the input or burn the motherboard. It is especially worth paying attention to Chinese fakes, in which the poles can be swapped.
Sometimes very unique connectors come across, for example, some Toshiba laptops with increased consumption have a unique complex-shaped connector with four contacts.
Number of contacts
Standard connectors are made in the form of a hollow cylinder. A pin located inside the connector on the laptop itself is inserted into the internal cavity. The external surface is usually minus, and voltage is applied through the internal surface. It is important that the order is respected, otherwise you can burn the motherboard.
The standard two-pin connector found on most manufacturers' laptops is described above. However, the Samsung and Sony power connectors are made in a different way. They have the shape of a cylinder, and the minus comes to the outside. However, power is supplied to a small pin inside the cylinder.
American companies Dell and HP use three-pin connectors. This is the same cylindrical shape and pin arrangement as in the standard version. However, there is a central pin. It serves only to obtain information about the power supply to protect the laptop. For this reason, these connectors are not electrically compatible with Samsung models.
Apple connectors already have 5 pins. The first and second generation, although they have the same lineup, are incompatible due to differing physical sizes, but there is a simple adapter on sale. It should be noted that it does not matter which side the connector is connected to. On two sides, two external contacts are a minus. Two internal voltage is applied. But the central one is not electric and serves to obtain information about the power supply.
Straight and corner connectors
Power connectors can be straight or angled. They do not have differences in characteristics and are completely interchangeable. It is rather about usability. For example, if the connector is located on the side of the laptop, and you need to get the cable behind it, the angle option is best.
Geometrical dimensions
Almost all connectors have a depth of 12 mm, with a few exceptions. These are ultra-compact laptops Asus EEE, MSI and other manufacturers. Depth is only 7 mm. The model range of Samsung and Lenovo manufacturers with 11 millimeters also stands out. It must be added that there are other options, however, they relate either to old models or to very rare laptops.
Most manufacturers have an external connector diameter of 5.5 mm and an internal diameter of 2.5. However, the internal diameter of the power connectors of Samsung and most Acer models is 3 mm and 1.7, respectively. It is worth noting that all American manufacturers, as well as Lenovo, use different parameters.
Be careful when choosing a power supply and find out exactly what size of the connector on your laptop, as well as the type of contact. This will help to avoid the possibility of breaking the entrance, as well as eliminating the need to re-visit the store to return the goods.
Apple devices use their own, unique power supply connector. However, it is also important to know which generation a connector is needed for, otherwise a special adapter will have to be purchased.
Separately, it is worth mentioning compact ultrabooks powered by a MicroUSB or USB Type-C connector. They are standardized and are available in only one form factor, regardless of manufacturer.
Signs of breakage
In the event of a breakdown, the power connectors of Asus, Samsung, Lenovo and other manufacturers are easy to replace in any service center. Feel free to ask for help if you have one of the following problems:
- The laptop works from the network only if the cord is in a certain position or if it needs to be corrected.
- If the cord does not lock into the power connector.
- When operation is possible only on battery power.
- If there is a periodic jump from mains to battery operation.
- When charging is very slow.
It is worth noting that the last three reasons can also indicate a malfunction of the power supply itself. It is better to immediately contact a service center for help and not try to find the problem yourself, otherwise you can easily burn your device.
Summary
Many manufacturers use their own power supplies, not to mention American ones with an additional contact for diagnosing the power supply. This causes a number of inconveniences for users, since it is necessary to carefully select the power supply connector specifically for a particular manufacturer, and sometimes even for a specific model.
It is important to choose the right connector, otherwise you can burn the motherboard. After that, repairing a laptop is often financially impractical. Also, when buying a power supply, select only original or branded ones. Fakes or cheap models are not distinguished by quality, their service life is very short, and often they can break the entire device.