Symptoms
TroubleshootingFollow the troubleshooting steps below. Expand the sections below to learn how to perform each troubleshooting step to identify the cause of the power issue on a Dell laptop. Perform a hard resetMost often, restarting the computer resolved many issues. The residual power in the computer may cause the laptop not to turn on. Follow the steps below to drain the residual power.
If this did not resolve the issue, go to the next step. Inspect the AC adapter, cables, and adapter (DC) port on the laptop for damagesThe AC adapter cable and power cables may get frayed or cut, and wires may become exposed at either end of the cables. This may be due to the way the cable is wrapped around the AC adapter, or if the cable is subject to undue stress. If the damage is severe enough to expose wires, you should discontinue using the AC adapter. To check the AC adapter, cables, and adapter port on the laptop for any damages: CAUTION: Dell recommends using only Dell branded AC adapters that are compatible with your laptop. Dell does not recommend using third-party AC adapters or batteries on a Dell laptop.
Warning: Grasp or hold the plug and not the cable while disconnecting the AC adapter from the laptop. Warning: Dell AC adapter works with electrical outlets worldwide. However, power connectors or power strips may vary among different countries. CAUTION: If the AC adapter or cables are damaged, discontinue using the AC adapter immediately. To learn more, see the Dell knowledge base article Identify AC Adapter Damage on Dell Systems. Figure 1: Frayed cables Figure 2: Exposed wires Figure 3: Cut cable Figure 4: Pin that is bent or broken If you notice damage, contact Dell Technical Support for repair options. If you do not find any damage, go to the next step. Verify that the wall outlet is working correctly
NOTE: If the AC adapter is connected to a docking station, connect the AC adapter directly to the laptop to verify the functionality. If the wall outlet is working correctly, go to the next step. Check LED indicator on AC adapterReseat the AC adapter by following these steps:
NOTE: LED indicator may be located either on the AC adapter brick or the adapter (DC) plug. If the AC adapter LED indicator is on, go to the next step. Connect a known-good AC adapterEnsure that you are using the original AC adapter that was shipped with the laptop. Using an AC adapter from other laptops or one that has a lower wattage may cause the following issues:
Dell laptops may use either a 45 W, 65 W, 90 W, 130 W, 180 W, or 240 W AC adapter. For optimal performance, use the original AC adapter that came with the Dell laptop. The AC adapter wattage information is printed on a label that is on the bottom of the AC adapter. If this did not resolve the issue, go to the next step. Disconnect the laptop from the docking station (if applicable)When using a docking station, it is essential to isolate if the docking station is causing the power issue. Universal USB docking stations do not provide power to the laptop. The AC adapter should be connected to the laptop. For Dell Thunderbolt or E-Series docking stations, verify that the original AC adapter that is shipped with the docking station is connected to the docking station.
If the laptop is turning on without the docking station, see the docking station manufacturer's website to troubleshoot the issue with the docking station. For troubleshooting guides of Dell docking stations, see the Dell knowledge base article Guide to Dell Docking Stations. If this did not resolve the issue, go to the next step. Run a diagnostic test on the system boardCertain Dell Inspiron, Latitude, Vostro, and Precision laptops are equipped with a motherboard integrated self-test (M-BIST). M-BIST is a integrated diagnostic tool that helps identify system board embedded controller (EC) failures. M-BIST must be manually initiated before Power-On Self-Test (POST) process and can be initiated on a Dell laptop that is not able to turn on. NOTE: The motherboard integrated self-test (M-BIST) feature is available only on select Dell Inspiron, Latitude, Vostro, and Precision laptops.
If this did not resolve the issue, contact Dell Technical Support for repair options. Helpful videosLaptop Computer Not Turning On (Official Dell Tech Support) on YouTube
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