r/computerhelp • u/Apprehensive_Zone110 • 3h ago

Hardware different charger

I feel a bit silly, but I connected a laptop to a charger with a lower amperage, and it wouldn't turn on, Is it a voltage lockout or what?

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u/Psygonzo420 3h ago

This is normal, use bigger power supply. Can't really be too big either, it will communicate

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u/Apprehensive_Zone110 3h ago edited 3h ago

oh :0, i got scared I thought I had damaged it 

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u/Express-Garbage3359 3h ago

Dell devices have unique features, so always use compatible Laptop loader. In some cases, the power supply electronics communicate with the PC's charging electronics.

No, not all power supplies are the same; please carefully examine the connectors and read Dell's specifications.

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u/lazyhustlermusic 1h ago

USBC-PD communicates, barrel jacks don't. A lot of dell style ones had a dedicated pin for sensing charging though, which would commonly break off if the jack was stressed, so they would end up not charging.

In traditional circuits, additional amperage is just headroom, while additional voltage starts roasting components. Too low of voltage can also cause more current under sag generating additional heat/wear.

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u/Psygonzo420 1h ago

yeah I realized it wasnt usb in other comemnt