Thinkpads Forum

I've got something rattling inside the AC adapter. Should I be concerned about it? Too bad they make these things so you can't open then.

Yes, you should be very concerned. You should also NOT use it as if the "rattle" is a piece of metal, it can potentially short across something inside.

I was thinking that if it didn't damage anything so far, it will not damage anything in the future. Also, doesn't the adapter have over-voltage and over-current protection?

I hate to be putting money into this old laptop. However, I ordered a new adapter just to be on the safe side. Plus the rattle gets on my nerves.

Most likely, the piece that broke off inside the adapter is made of plastic, and thus will pose no problem with creating a short. However, since as you point out, the adapter cannot be easily opened up and inspected. Well, that's not really true.. you could crack the case open but you'd have a problem putting it back together . I don't think that any of the adpaters I've seen have screws underneath the label.

Yes, the design of the supply probably will withstand a direct short across the output but that doesn't mean that a short somewhere else in the circuit can be tolerated. In my mind, it's not worth the chance to blow the supply (best case) or cause a fire (worst case). You can usually find genuine AC adapters on eBay for under $15 shipped if you are patient.

Tough call. If I could afford it, I just replace it, but the sound the piece makes might determine if it's plastic or not. (Like a tab, which snap so often)

I'd get it X-rayed, shake it again, then re-x-ray. If there's any bits of metal in a different spot, then you know.

Know anyone in airport security?

The question is - does it rattle when you shake it in your hand, or when it's laying still on the table and connected to power outlet?
If the latter is true - there is contact braking out somewhere inside. Or some component have been detached from pcb little bit.
If the first assumption is true - it's probably piece of plastic and you have nothing to worry about.