[sdiy] magsafe patch cables?

[Matthew Smith]

Quoth Dan Snazelle at 2009-03-23 22:50...
> my laptop has a dc  wallwart adapter...which then plugs into a dc connector.

So there are two possible issues that I can think of - the connector
coming unsoldered as I suggested earlier or the connector being broken
internally.  Either way, you (or someone) will need to get at that
connector.

> my fear of opening the laptop up is figuring out how to open it without messing up the screen,etc.

Just be careful unhooking and re-connecting any of the ribbon cables
inside.  These are generally the type where the conductors are printed
onto plastic.  The connectors they go into frequently have a little
latch thingy that has to be released first - just yanking at the cable
is asking for trouble.

> i have already bought 2 new wallwarts so i am pretty sure it is a bad connector inside
> 
> you make it sound easy though

Generally, it is - but will depend entirely on make/model.  If it's a
ThinkPad, there's a reasonable chance that you should be able to Google
for and download a service manual.  Otherwise you will have to work it
out yourself.

A few tips:

1) Give yourself plenty of time.

3) Disconnect from power and remove battery before even thinking about
opening the case.

4) Do this with the lid SHUT.  You may need to open it to remove some
bits, but this is a good starting point.

5) There might be a lot of screws and of different lengths.  These will
mostly be on the base.  Sometimes there are some on the back near the
connectors.  Have a piece of paper or something so that you can tell
what length screw goes back in what hole.

Sometimes the case is embossed by the screw holes with little icons
showing what the screws reveal - which ones to take out to remove the
keyboard, for example.  Odds are, to get at the power connector, you'll
need to take ALL of them off.

6) Take photographs, lots of photographs, as you take it apart.  These
can be invaluable when it comes to putting it back together!

7) Whilst you've got it open, check round the cooling system for dust
and fluff.

8) You may find that Googling for your model with other appropriate
terms may even get you a 'how to' for disassembly, possibly with
photographs.

As I say, these are just general guidelines.  I'm assuming that as an
SDIYer you will have disassembled and reassembled enough gear now to be
comfortable with the mechanics of it.  Big difference between opening up
a synth and opening up a laptop is size/fiddliness.

If in doubt though, seek assistance.  (If you know someone experienced
in this who is willing to show you how, could be valuable education.)

Cheers

M

-- 
Matthew Smith
Smiffytech - Technology Consulting & Web Application Development
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