• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Laptop amperage rated higher than power supply

C

ColKurtz

Senior member
I have several Thinkpad power supplies laying around, having had several generations of IBM laptops. Last night I noticed one of the power supplies making a hissing noise and was rather hot even though it had been plugged into the laptop a brief time.

I checked my laptop and it pulls 4.5A at 16v -- the power supply is rated 3.5A at 16v. Could I harm the laptop running it off of this power supply?
 
More likely you'd harm the power supply I think. You did say the power supply was making noises. Drawing too much current can make it overheat, likely causing damage and could make it melt or maybe even components explode.

The laptop at worst couldn't get enough juice and just wouldn't run.
 
If the laptop is drawing more power than the power supply can dish out than I'd assume you would experience instability. But that 72W rating for your laptop is probably the worse case scenario under load while battery charging. I think the power adapter would crap out before any permanent damage could occur with the laptop.
 
Thanks guys - 2 No's, 1 Yes. I guess I'll take my chances -- I don't use it that often. I'm just too lazy sometimes to go crawling around to get the PSU when I change rooms.

tnx again.
 
Why not just run on the battery when you aren't near the proper PSU? Or to be safe, get a spare correct PSU. 50, 75 bucks and you don't burn down your house.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top