Like all other electronic devices, laptop AC adapters eventually stop working. There are many causes from excessive wire bending, exposure to extreme temperatures, or simply that it's an aging adapter. Unfortunately there is no definitive amount of time that adapters last. Their lifespan is dependant on how much they're used. Below we list ways of checking if your adapter has ceased working.

Check Your notebook

Your notebook adapter may not power your notebook due to a loose connector. Make sure all connectors are inserted correctly. Also, check the adapter box. notebook adapters often have an LED light that lights up when your adapter is powering your notebook. If this light is off, then your notebook is not receiving any power.

Once you have checked all your adapter's connectors take a look at the electrical outlet. The problem could simply be that the power socket you're connected too is no longer working. Change sockets to rule it out.

For notebook DC AC adapters check the DC-jack. These adapters must fit snugly. If you have to have your adapter plugged in just the right spot or angle, then your DC-jack may be broken.

Check Your Adapter

A bent cable can be the culprit of a malfunctioning Gateway AC adapter. Think of this like a garden hose. If you pinch or bend a garden hose while it is running water, the water will not exit the hose. A notebook AC adapter works in the same basic way.

Make sure nothing is resting on your power cable such as a book, notebook bag, or anything else that could pinch the adapter cable. If nothing is bending the cable, check the cable itself. The constant bending from storing your adapter could have exposed the wires within the adapter cable. This exposure can cause it to stop functioning properly.

Replacing Your AC adapter

If you find that your adapter is no longer working, there are a few options for replacing it. The first option is to order the same or a similar compatible adapter. The second option is to order a universal one.

Note: Universal adapters come with multiple tips to fit the different types of notebooks on the market. If in the future you choose to purchase a new notebook, a universal AC adapter may have a tip that will work with your new one. The advantage is that you would have a spare for future use or one to keep at home or in the office, which would make one less thing to carry.