Member Avatar for openbahr

Hey guys,

I am having a problem with my Dell inspiron 9200 .

A few weeks ago my laptop started to flicker from ac to batt. and right back again once in a while.
then recently I started to notice that when I plugged it in there would be a crackling noise in the back near the ac jack. I think I found online that there is a problem with dell's ac jacks solder connections coming loose and shorting out. So I figured that was my problem.

I also more recently began getting a strange message saying that the device in the usb port was not recognized--- even know I had nothing plugged in. and now it jst freezes up completely after a few minutes. I did smell a slight burning smell one night before the freeze ups started

My question is -- Is my motherboard fried??
what is up?

thank you guys in advance
mike

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by computerscott2

Dani AI

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A few practical checks to narrow this down for without repeating the earlier DIY talk: the mix of power inlet noise, erratic AC/battery switching, phantom USB enumerations and a burning odor is most consistent with a power-delivery fault (adapter, inlet wiring or the board's power circuitry). Because a smell and sizzling are involved, stop using the laptop on mains until you confirm the source.

Try these safe, ordered diagnostics:

  1. Power down, unplug the adapter and remove the battery. Do a visual check around the inlet for scorch marks or melted plastic.
  2. Verify the adapter itself: compare the brick's rated output to what a multimeter actually shows. If the brick is out of spec, replace it.
  3. Boot with battery only. If the machine runs stably on battery but fails when the adapter is connected, the issue is with the adapter/jack or the input stage on the board.
  4. If possible, try a known-good compatible adapter to isolate the adapter from the laptop.
  5. Boot to the BIOS or run pre-boot hardware diagnostics (the diagnostics run before the OS loads). If it freezes there, it is almost certainly hardware. If it only freezes inside the OS, also check Device Manager and Event Viewer for USB or power-related errors.

If the adapter checks out but the jack or nearby board shows heat or burn damage, an input-harness/jack replacement or board-level repair is likely. For an older Inspiron, repair cost can approach replacement cost; as notes replacement is sometimes the most practical choice. If attempting any internal work, follow careful disassembly steps as recommended or have a reputable shop give a written diagnostic and estimate before authorizing repairs.

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Member Avatar for jbennet

yes, return it or buy a new one

Member Avatar for computerscott2

I have fixed a few of these problems with older compaq's and other laptops. I don't know how adventureous you are or how savvy you are with a soldering gun, but, if it is not too late you may be able to save it. The first thing you should do is save your data! If it is under warranty have DELL fix it, again save your data. If you do decide to tackle it be careful because some of the newer motherboard designs are a multi-layer deal and can be tricky to solder with. I have actually seen one case where someone's motherboard actually burn't up in the area of the ac adapter and caused a puff of smoke. Continued use as it is now may eventually ruin the motherboard, if it has not already. Good Luck. Also for anyone wanting to attempt to repair their laptops, the best method I have found is to use a piece of cardboard and draw small diagrams of your laptop as you disassemble. As you take the screws out put them in the appropriate diagram on your cardboard. Slow and easy and don't force anything. Once you get the screws out there are little clip like holders that usually snap together to hold the top and bottom pieces together. Laptop repairs can be intimidating, but the fear of the unknown can be overcome by attempting it.

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