AC Adapter question for X40...

[jhoover]

My AC adapter for my X40 just gave out on me. I've had it for 2 years so I've got another year covered under warranty.

Called IBM on Monday to report the problem, gave them the FRU # and they immediately shipped me a replacement that arrived today (no complaints on outstanding turnaround time!)

However, the new adapter is a 72W adapter and the original was 56W. I called IBM support and they say that the difference in wattage won't hurt my lappy. (It looks like a T40 AC adapter -- a bit bulkier.)

Should I hold out for a 56W adapter? I love my X40, have treated it with the utmost care and it's served me well over that past two years at b-school. Hence, I don't want to risk overheating the little guy with an adapter that seems to power it fine but may be "overpowering" it by 16W.

Any insight on various wattage effects on X40s? I'm still on hold with IBM support as they are "searching" for a 56W AC adapter to ship out...

Thanks!

[K0LO]

jhoover:

No problem. Your lappy will draw the power that it needs (which is probably closer to 15 Watts while running normally). If the power supply is capable of supplying more power than you need that's a good thing. It means that the supply will run well within its rating, so it will be cooler and last longer.

The only reason for insisting on a 56 W adapter would be if you deem the 72 W adapter to be too big or too heavy compared to the one you used to have.

[asiafish]

The 72 Watt might just charge your batteries faster while the computer is running at the same time, depending on current draw of the computer and the charging circuit.

[sugo]

The 72W is safe for your X40 since the voltage is the same.

[redburgundy]

The 56W power supply has an AC plug with only the two prongs, not a ground, right? What about the 72W power supply?
If it has a plug with a ground, then I would be unhappy, because it limits the kinds of extension cords and foreign power adapters you can use with it.

[Biggs]

Depending on the model, IBM 56W adapters come with 2 or 3 prongs.

[archer6]

I love my X40, have treated it with the utmost care and it's served me well
Any insight on various wattage effects on X40s?
Thanks!

The X40 was and is, a great ThinkPad! Regardind the power adapter question, your notebook will only draw the power it needs. Therefore if you do not mind the small difference in size and weight between the different adapters there's no problem. On a positive note, the higher capacity adapter will run cooler and last longer.

Keep up the good care of your trusty X40 and you will be suprized at just how long it will serve you. I still have my (very old) first ThinkPad and it (still) runs like a gem....