Notebook Chargers - Notes on the use of third party chargers and diagnosing problems

Use of Third Party Chargers

Use of third party laptop chargers on Stone branded laptop products is supported but only when an appropriate charger is used. Use of a charger of the wrong rating or connector may void your product warranty, and may cause product damage.

Guidelines on the use of Third Party Chargers

DO use a charger of the same voltage as the original charger. Chargers that supply a lower or higher voltage should not be used. Most laptops have confirmation of the input voltage required on a label on the underside of the machine
DO use a charger of the same or greater power output, either in watts (W) or amps (A).
DO use a charger that provides a regulated output. Most laptop chargers do provide a regulated output, however many low cost generic power adapters (i.e. power adapters not built specifically for laptops) do not provide a regulated output.

We recommend the use of branded charges which clearly show the CE Marking, and show if the device is Class 1 or Class 2.

Example

For an original adapter that supplies 19V 3.42A (65W) please see the following examples of substitute adapter and whether or not they can be used:

Rating / Output	Can this be used?
18.5V 3.5A	No. The voltage is too low (18.5V), so even though the total power output is sufficient the adapter should not be used.
19V 3.0A	No. The current available (3.0A) is too low. The adapter will not be able to provide sufficient power
19V 4.74A	This adapter supplies the correct voltage (19V) and can supply ample current (4.74A is more than 3.42A). This adapter can be used as long as the connector size and polarity exactly matches the old adapter.
24V 3.42A	No. The voltage is too high (24V).

Key:

V = Volts, or voltage. Measurement of electrical pressure.
A = Amps; measurement of current or electrical flow.
W = Power in Watts - total power derived by multiplying the voltage (V) and amps (A).

Note: If you are unsure as to the suitability of a replacement third party AC adapter please contact support before using the adapter. Alternatively, Stone may be able to supply you with a replacement adapter.

Diagnosis

Some notebook or tablet chargers have an LED directly on the charger itself. This LED is only useful to tell you that there is mains present (for example, that the fuse is OK). If the LED is not functioning, AC mains could still be present but the charger has failed. Conversely, even if the LED is illuminated, this does not guarantee that the charger is fully functional.

Other Dos and Donts

Always replace the mains adapter if the cable becomes damaged or frayed
Always keep the mains adapter and the notebook away from water or sources of moisture
Never attempt to repair a mains adapter yourself. The only user replaceable components is the mains fuse on the mains lead, and the mains lead itself.

Applies to:

Laptop and tablet products