| Their portability and size make laptop computers | | | | car adapter. If you have multiple laptops, an |
| a common electronic device found in homes and | | | | adapter with interchangeable plug attachments will |
| offices around the world. However, their batteries | | | | allow you to easily swap the adapter from one |
| don’t last forever, and need to be charged | | | | computer to the other. |
| often. A universal laptop adapter is the perfect | | | | Many universal laptop adapters offer automatic |
| tool for this task. Understanding how these handy | | | | voltage switching, USB device charging and |
| adapters work and the types available is | | | | compatibility with MP3 and other portable music |
| important in choosing the correct one for your | | | | and video players. A quality adapter should also |
| needs. | | | | have an automatic shut-off safety feature if its |
| Choosing the Right Adaptersuch as: Dell Inspiron | | | | internal temperature goes above a certain limit. |
| 8200 Adapter | | | | Troubleshooting Adapters |
| | | | Generally, laptop AC adapters don’t require |
| Dell Inspiron 8200 AC Adapter 90W 20V 4.5A 3 | | | | much maintenance. If one stops working, |
| hole tip Description: | | | | however, it’s a good idea to simply buy |
| Input: AC100-240V (worldwide use) | | | | another, as repair would cost more. Since they |
| Output: DC20V 4.5A | | | | deal with high voltages, it’s not advisable to |
| Power: 90W | | | | open an adapter and see what’s wrong. It is |
| Connecter size: Special 3 hole tip | | | | normal for it to get warm during normal use, but |
| Item Includes: AC Adapter and Power Cord. | | | | if it’s too hot to touch, consider replacing it to |
| # Keep in mind that all laptops come with a | | | | prevent future problems. Keep in mind that car |
| proprietary AC adapter that plugs into the wall. | | | | adapters draw power directly from your |
| When shopping for a universal adapter, you’ll | | | | car’s battery through its cigarette lighter, so |
| see that there may be specific plug adapters to | | | | don’t keep it plugged in for extended periods |
| fit a wide range of computers. If you want to | | | | without running your car engine. |
| charge your laptop in your car, choose one with a | | | | |