Priority Electronics Blog

When your AC adapter stops working what do you do next? Acting on impulse to throw the black brick out the apartment window is an option. But Priority Electronics suggests performing a number of precautionary tests before destroying the adapter. If your AC adapter does not pass the checklist, consider purchasing a new compatible device.

The first step is to verify the AC adapter brick is actually receiving power. The easiest way to do this is to shut down the computer and unplug the AC adapter from the power socket. Next plug the adapter directly into the wall socket. Do not run the AC adapter through extension cords or surge protectors as these devices might be causing the problem. If applicable, check for the AC adapters green light. This will let you know if power is flowing to the system.

If the AC adapter is not receiving an electric charge, try plugging an alternative electronic device into the socket. You can test the wall socket with any available household appliance that must be plugged in for use. For example, a vacuum cleaner or toaster is a great option.

If the green LED light does display power to the AC adapter, your laptop may have a bad connection. Examine the systems power socket to ensure there are no bent or missing pins. Next, be sure the AC adapter firmly plugs into the laptop computer.

If you’ve tried to troubleshoot using the previous steps and still can’t find an adequate solution, consider purchasing a new AC adapter for your laptop. This inexpensive fix will get your laptop computer powered up and fully operational in no time. And if it’s been less than a year since the initial purchase of your laptop you may actually be qualified to receive a factory replacement for free. Some warranties can last as long as two years. Check the manufacturer’s warranty for details.

Do you have any tips or tricks for troubleshooting and AC adapter? If so, leave a message in the comments section below. We’d love to know how you’ve solved an AC adapter dilemma.

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With the introduction of Windows 7 last week Microsoft seems to have learned some valuable lessons from the Vista debacle just a few years earlier.

Vista was released with a number of software bugs and steep hardware requirements that created a litany of problems for older computers. The unreliability of Vista also resulted in many users “downgrading” their operating systems to previous editions. From a branding standpoint, this was a mistake Microsoft could not afford to repeat again with their next release.

Windows 7 was made available in stores everywhere October 22^nd, 2009. A little over a week after the release initial feedback has been mostly positive. Here’s what Microsoft did right with the launch of Windows 7.

Improved Laptop Battery Life

Vista was a power suck for laptop owners and Microsoft knew it. To rectify this problem on Windows 7, Microsoft worked closely with the computer chipmaker Intel. According to Joakim Lialias, Intel’s Microsoft relationship manager, “Microsoft and Intel engineers were able to reduce power usage of a Window’s 7 laptop over an identical laptop running Windows Vista SP2.”

Microsoft admits that battery life of laptops running Windows 7 will vary depending on a number of system factors. At worst, expect your laptop battery life to be about the same with the Windows 7 upgrade. At best, you should get a few more minutes of movies or video games on the go.

Device Stage

Device Stage is a new feature that automatically recognizes the make and model of new peripherals. Users can access these peripherals on their desktop after they are plugged in. Device Stage supports a wide-range of accessories like USB drives and joysticks.

In addition to these powerful additions Microsoft has pledged improvements with a more streamlined interface and less intrusive security measures.

You can pick up the full version of Windows 7 Professional is $299, with upgrades for $199. The full version of Windows 7 Home Edition is available for $199.

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Spilling soda or trapping remnants of Cheeto’s beneath the underbelly of your laptop keyboard is an unfortunate event that’s occurred at one time or another for most longtime users. This can create anything from a small nuisance like a sticky F5 button to an all out catastrophe that renders your machine incapacitated. Fortunately, with a bit of tech savvy you can replace your laptop’s keyboard at a much lower cost than having to buy a new system. But before opening the hood of your notebook, there are a few precautions that must be taken.

First, be sure to unplug the AC power adapter and remove the battery before taking your machine under the knife. No need to electrocute yourself.

Most keyboards are held in place by a couple screws that will need to be removed from the base of your keyboard. You’ll need a Phillips head screw driver to complete this task Be sure to read the user manual for specific instructions on keyboard replacement for your model.

After you’ve removed the screws check the keyboard connector. Be gentle when unplugging the keyboard connector as this can permanently damage the connector or even the motherboard. To release the keyboard ribbon cable, pull the connector edge up about 2 millimeters. The ribbon cable should easily slip out. Then simply install the new keyboard by connecting the ribbon cable and inserting the old screws.

Be careful when ordering a replacement keyboard for your laptop model. A Toshiba notebook keyboard won’t be compatible with a Compaq, for example. If you’re unsure, call your local laptop repair specialist. They can provide expert advice if you get stuck and ensure the replacement keyboard has been installed correctly.

PriorityElectronics.com carries replacement laptop keyboards for most laptop brands, including HP, Gateway, Dell, Acer, NEC, Sony, Toshiba, and more. Many can be replaced for around $25 - $50 so even if you end up taking your notebook to a professional, you’ll still save money.

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Over 70% of companies in the United States qualify as a small businesses. HP has set its sights on this lucrative market with the Compaq Business Notebook nx9000 series. HP hopes small business owners will agree the models connectivity and performance, along with price result in increased sales for the manufacturer.

First, let’s talk specs. The nx9000 combines its slim and sleek design with a travel weight of just 2.95 kg. The F4812A delivers solid battery life to support extended sessions on the road. And with on board Intel Pentium 4-M processors that feature Intel Enhanced SpeedStep technology, you’ll need the extra power. HP also stresses the connectivity of this model with integrated wireless 802.11b giving users the ability to work where they want when they want. There are a generous number of connection ports to increase the flexibility of this model to boot. Other technical features of include:

• User programmable instant launch keys with scroll pad

• 14 or 15 inch display

• Large capacity hard drive

• CD/DVD drive

• Firewire port and S-Video Connector

• An optional port replicator

The Compaq line of business laptops enters a very large, but tough market. One selling point owners will appreciate is the availability of replacement parts and upgrades. Keyboards, displays, and batteries can be easily replaced inexpensively on this model. This allows owners to save money by getting longer life out of their computer systems.

Embracing Tradition

HP officially acquired longtime computer manufacturer Compaq back in 2002. Compaq was suffering from declining sales, although brand recognition remained strong. Subsequently, HP opted to continue producing desktop and notebook computers under the Compaq name. HP hoped its more established infrastructure and resources would bolster future sales.

The Bottom Line

The HP Compaq Business Notebook nx9000 series laptop is a safe choice for the small- to mid-size business owner. It is a no frills, low cost work horse that can easily manage everyday business functions like email, spreadsheets, or word processing. If it breaks down, replacement parts are both easy and inexpensive to order. If you’re a gamer, this is not your laptop pc. If you’re a business owner interested in computer maximizing costs, the HP Compaq Business Notebook nx9000 is a safe bet.

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No matter how much technology increases and battery life extends it’s an inevitable fact that one day your laptop’s power source will need to be replaced. It becomes obvious pretty quickly when you need a new battery: Your notebook will no longer be able to hold a charge and power down quickly even after long periods of recharging. The silver lining is that replacing a laptop battery is easy and relatively inexpensive.

Disposing of Old Batteries

Don’t throw a laptop battery away with the rest of the trash. In many communities batteries and other computer electronics are considered toxic waste. Depending on where you live, the fine for throwing away a battery could be pretty steep. Often your old batteries can be returned to the retailer where the equipment was purchased. Many automotive stores also take used batteries. To find places that recycle batteries in your area, click here.

How to Replace a Laptop Battery

Replacing a battery on a laptop isn’t as difficult as you may think. Follow these steps to safely replace a battery:

• Turn off your laptop and disconnect the AC adapter.

• Release the latch and other devices that hold your battery in place.

• Slide the old battery out of its storage bay.
• Avoid touching the contacts on the battery itself or inside the bay. Oil on your fingertips could end up reducing the charge.

• Make sure the new battery is the correct model for your laptop.

• Slide it into its compartment.

• Close the computer’s latch to lock the battery into place.

• Connect the AC adapter and give the battery a full charge before use.

Ordering The Right Replacement Battery

Make sure the battery you order is compatible with the manufacturer and model type of the specific laptop you own. For example, if you own a Dell Inspiron 1300 you’ll want to purchase a 312-0416 laptop battery to ensure compatibility.

Browse PriorityElectronics.com to find a compatible battery for your ailing laptop and finally put the old one to rest. We promise you won’t miss it. The improved performance and extended use of your computer will quickly pay off the cost of a replacement and keep your laptop operating smooth again.

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Introducing Corporate America’s New Laptop: Toshiba Tecra

The Tecra is being professed by Toshiba as the new mobile platform for corporate America. From a built-in business card scanner to finger print reader on select models, the Tecra offers unique flexibility for the traveling business professional. But does the Tecra really hold up to the demands of a seasoned road warrior or is this just another ho-hum laptop surrounded by a little marketing hype?

The Tecra comes in three distinct models defined by features and price: M10, A10, and the flagship R10. The Tecra R10 is a razor thin notebook weighing in at 4.4 pounds with a 14.1” display. It’s powered by an Intel Core 2 processor. The Toshiba is rounded out with 3GB of DDR2 memory, 160GB of hard drive space, a 6-cell battery and DVD player/burner.

The Tecra R10 starts at just under $1,400 and comes with a finger print reader, built-in web cam and mic right out of the box. The finger print reader is one of the hottest features on this business notebook. Instead of remembering numerous passwords for file and database access, you can simply swipe your finger over the on-board biometric reader and viola! The reader verifies your fingerprint and grants access to the secured area. The web cam and mic are also convenient for attending online conferences.

Another novel business application for the Tecra is a business card reader. The reader scans the name, number, organization, and other contact information directly from a business card into a program that allows for direct export of info to common applications like email, ACT!, and PDAs. This makes organizing contacts more convenient for the serial networker.

Toshiba has experienced some trouble with Tecra laptop batteries in the past. In 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of about 1,400 Sony made batteries used in Toshiba Tecra notebooks sold in the United States. The lithium-ion batteries had a tendency to overheat during extended use, which posed potential fire hazards for consumers. Earlier in the 2007, Toshiba recalled 5,100 laptop batteries worldwide. In 2009, however, there appears to be no such problem with new models.

The Bottom Line: The Toshiba Tecra delivers a powerful line of notebooks catering to the mobile professional. Add options like the business card or finger print reader and you’ve got a truly versatile platform that makes work easier.

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Toshiba Portege Review

Toshiba is positioning the Portege family as an ultra-light notebook that delivers outstanding performance for students and business folk alike. But criticisms have arouse that suggest they may not be powerful enough for the stringent demands of business 2.0. There’s no doubt the Toshiba Portege is a bargain for the average user looking for a variety of unique add-ons, but can it compete with more business-centric alternatives?

The Portege is available in four models: A600, M750, R500, and R600. There is a pretty big price gap in this line starting at $1,300 for the M750 and A600 moving upwards to around $2,200 for the R600. With a price discrepancy this wide, Toshiba would be wise to break these up into different families of models.

What Makes The Portege Different?

Toshiba touts a variety of selling points for the Portege. The first they call EasyGaurd Technology. Part of this technology is a finger print reader that allows you to place an imprint the notebook instead of endlessly entering passwords. The second part is a variety of security software, including virus protection and the proprietary PC Health Monitor program that continually tests the overall well-being of your system.

The Portege also comes with a high-resolution, backlit display that can spin 360 degrees. This screen makes it easy to show clients your latest project. It’s also convenient for watching movies or YouTube clips.

Following suit with models made popular by Apple and Dell, the Toshiba Portege allows users to express themselves in many colors. Lid colors include Soft Pink, Aluminum Silver, Frosty White, and Cosmic Black.

Finally, one of the coolest features of the Toshiba Portege has to be the built in face-recognition software. Combined with the on-board webcam, you won’t have to worry about anyone without access logging on to your laptop. The software automatically logs you in as soon as you sit in front of web cam. How sweet is that?

The Bottom Line: Cool options like face recognition software and a 360 degree screen separate this notebook from the majority of uninspired laptops out there. The Protege was designed to wow with an abundance of killer options. But demanding users have had harsh criticisms of the product and its lack of overall power for the price. Specs for the Toshiba Protege R600 are listed below:

 Intel Core 2 Duo Processor SU9400
 Windows Vista
 Hard Drive
 160GB Hard Drive
 3GB PC2-6400 DDR2 800MHz SDRAM
 DVD Burner
 WiFi + Bluetooth
 Li-Ion Battery with life up to 7.53 hours
 Web cam

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Clip and Save on the Compaq Presario

Just because you’re clipping coupons doesn’t mean you need to cut back on laptop power. Right now you can clip your way to savings on hardware upgrades and other discounts on Compaq Presario laptops at Compaq.com. These online coupons include savings on memory and software.

For a limited time, Compaq is giving customers $100 cash back with the purchase of select laptops. Additionally they are providing an extra gig of memory (for a total of 3GB), an additional $50 value according to the official website. Finally, Comapaq will help you save another $30 on Microsoft Office Small Business 2007. When you add up the savings, you’re looking at a laptop for about $430 out of the box.

For years the Campaq Presario line has been the working man of the laptop market, diligently providing solid computing power for day-to-day applications. The Compaq Presario CQ60 and CQ60z series notebooks don’t stray from this tradition. The Presario comes with a satisfactory 15.6” diagonal widescreen display, 160 GB hard drive, built in WiFi, an AMD processor and multiple USB ports all wrapped with a standard black finish. The Compaq Presario comes standard with Windows Vista operating system and a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

Battery life is similarly mediocre with the Compaq Presario. The notebook comes standard with a 6-cell lithium ion battery that will last up to 2.5 hours while running Windows Vista. Generally, these batteries will last about two years for the average user or 500 charge cycles. The Compaq Presario V5000 series laptop battery is a popular replacement when the original expires. A 65W power adapter is also provided when continuous power is needed.

The Bottom Line: Competition among discount laptop manufacturers is fierce. Although the Compaq Presario provides a good all-around computer capable of basic applications–checking email, surfing the web, and word processing—there are better values out there. If you’re in the market for a low-cost computer try similarly priced alternatives from Toshiba or Lenovo. You’ll get a better deal and won’t have to clip any coupons.

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Dell Latitude: First class business, without first class cost.

Even in a struggling economy, there are still deals to be made, executives to impress, and should the need arise… resumes to update.

With that in mind Dell has introduced the Latitude series for the busy working professional. For business needs, their basic model, the “Latitude –Mainstream” comes in at steal, selling for just under $800 at Dell.

However for those who need the versatility of a business laptop, yet the strength of a computer that can take the bumps and bruises of being on the road a lot, Dell also offers the “Latitude – Specialty” This model may cost considerably more ranging from $1,900 - $4,300, but considering what Dell offers, this really is the crown jewel of the Latitude series. Measuring in at just 14 inches, the “Latitude – Specialty” offers:

1. Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo P8700 2.53Ghz
2. Memory: 1.0GB, DDR2-800 SDRAM, 1 DIMM
3. Storage: 64GB Solid State Drive
4. Weight: 8.5 Lbs
5. Power: 6-cell primary battery, 12 cell high-capacity rugged battery slice (optional)
6. 4 USB Ports, 1 eSATA expansion port

By today’s standards the specs may seem a bit sub-par, especially for the money, but what this
upper echelon of the Dell family lacks in power, it makes up ten-fold in protection of your
business needs. The E6400 XFR model described above is virtually indestructible, rated to sustain falls of up to four feet, can withstand excessive outdoor temperatures in the most
brutal of deserts, and is built for the most demanding of consumers including police, and
military; being able to withstand dust, and humidity extremes well beyond what the at home user
would ever expose their equipment to.

This computer is designed to protect all of the information that keeps your business running. Of
this next generation in rugged computers, Dell CEO and Chairman Michael Dell said of this line,
“Since 1995, we’ve shipped more business laptops worldwide than anyone… This, and our 5
million plus conversations a day with customers, gives us real insight into the needs of the digital
nomad. Today we’re translating that insight into breakthrough productivity, portability and
design. The new Latitudes are breathtaking.”

The Latitude is also instrumental, for contractors, engineers, construction crews, and anyone else
that needs a laptop that can take the abuse of the real business world.

Although the outside is tough the insides are quite appealing as well. Latitudes come standard
with Windows Vista, however for those that still prefer the functionality of Windows XP, most
Latitudes can have that installed for a small additional charge.

For those who don’t need all of the bells and whistles of an indestructible computer, the lower
end models also work great for busy professionals who simply need to take their work home with
them at the end of the day.

The Latitude is available now at Dell’s Web site, and at select online retailers.

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Toshiba Satellite: The Tradition Continues

The Satellite is one of the longest running notebooks from Toshiba, the company that created the world’s first IBM compatible laptop way back in 1985. Today, the Satellite is available in several models distinguished by processing power and price. Since the Satellite’s inception, it has remained a staple of the entry to midrange notebook market. The continued success of the Satellite series has been driven by flexibility and the latest line is no exception.

The Satellite delivers eight unique model options that cater to a diverse group of users. With diagonal wide-screen displays that range from 13.3” to 17” these laptops give consumers exactly what they want. From screens that are great for watching movies to smaller alternatives designed for an international flight in coach, the Satellite is a smart option.

Like all laptops, the internal battery will eventually lose its charge resulting in less work time. Fortunately, Toshiba makes it pretty easy to replace the battery down the line. Be sure to verify the voltage and amp rating of the battery prior to purchase. This will make finding a replacement much easier. Also, make sure the battery is 100% OEM compatible.

Speaking of recharging your batteries. Your laptop is probably not the only device that needs to be continually recharged. Peripherals like I-pods, cell phones, and external hard drives need plenty of juice to keep working. Thanks to recent innovations by Toshiba, you can now power these through the Satellite. Its called USB Sleep-and-Charge technology. This feature allows you to connect almost any electronic device to your laptop via the USB port and viola! You’ve got a charged cell phone on the go.

The Toshiba Satellite L300 is the most economical of the lot and runs at about $500. If you’re looking for more power, the Toshiba Satellite E105 is the most expensive at roughly $1,200. No matter which model you choose, its not a bad deal for a new notebook computer.

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