Member Avatar for CrittendenCG

I have a Dell Inspirion 5000e that for some reason just turns off whenever it feels like it... It is still connected to the AC and the battery is still in good shape (or so the computer tells me) when this happens so im not sure if there is a loose connection or what. This is all i really can say b/c its so random with its turning off. It is like when you pull the AC and the battery out at the same time, just loses power.

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— an abrupt, instantaneous shutdown (no Windows shutdown sequence) usually means the power path is being interrupted somewhere between the adapter/battery and the motherboard rather than a normal OS power setting. 's power-options check was a good quick rule-out, and 's mention of the adapter cable is a common external cause. The checklist below focuses on how to isolate the fault and what to inspect next.

First, isolate the power source: run the laptop from AC only with the battery removed, then from battery only with AC unplugged. Note whether the failure occurs in one mode or both. While running, leave it in BIOS or boot a small Linux/USB live image so the OS power policies are out of the way. Check Windows Event Viewer (System log) for sudden power events such as Kernel-Power entries — timestamps can help correlate the failure to a hardware event.

If failure appears with AC only, the problem is in the adapter/DC jack power path (internal jack solder joint, power MOSFET or regulator on the board). If it happens on battery only, suspect the battery pack or its internal connector. For intermittent faults, try gently flexing the area around the DC jack and battery connector while powered (carefully) to see if that reproduces the cut-out — that often reveals a loose jack or cracked solder joint. Open the case only if comfortable: look for bulging capacitors, burn marks, loose connectors, or a swollen battery cell.

Also run basic diagnostics: Memtest86+ for RAM, SMART tests for the drive, and disable automatic restart on system failure so a BSOD can be captured if one occurs. Consider a BIOS/embedded-controller update from Dell only after confirming stable power. If the fault points to the motherboard or internal power circuitry and solder repairs are needed, a qualified repair shop is preferable — for a 5000e, weigh repair cost vs. replacement.

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Member Avatar for BThree

Have you checked your "power options" in the control panel? Maybe somehow your power is set to shut down when you are inactive for a period of time.

Member Avatar for CrittendenCG

yea, already checked that... everything was fine in that area. i was wondering though if there were some known internal problems with these computers.

Member Avatar for BThree

Yeah..it was an obvious solution but never hurts to ask. I have this same unit and haven't run across this problem. Have you contacted tech support at Dell. I know calling is frustrating but they are pretty good about getting defective parts replaced.

Member Avatar for mtp

I have a Dell Inspirion 5000e that for some reason just turns off whenever it feels like it... It is still connected to the AC and the battery is still in good shape (or so the computer tells me) when this happens so im not sure if there is a loose connection or what. This is all i really can say b/c its so random with its turning off. It is like when you pull the AC and the battery out at the same time, just loses power.

Check the cable between the power supply and connector to the laptop. It is possible that you have a broken wire and the break will most likely be at the point where the wire passes through the weight/strain relief. I just discovered this problem with my power supply.

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