Dell adapters are used to charge your Dell laptop or provide power while you're in a vehicle or airplane. You can get a Dell electric adapter that is marketed and branded by Dell, or a compatible adapter from another manufacturer. When purchasing an adapter, make sure you get the right one for your Dell laptop. Adapter voltage and connections vary.

If the power supply in your Dell computer goes bad, you may need a Dell power supply converter. Many Dell desktop models are installed with a proprietary power supply. On these models, standard power supplies will not work without a Dell-to-ATX adapter. Some things to consider when purchasing a Dell laptop adapter or Dell power supply converter are:

1. Make sure you get the right Dell power adapter or Dell power supply converter for your model.

2. Look for special features in Dell adapters for laptops.

3. If you have an older Dell power adapter, be aware of important recall information.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a Dell electric adapter for your laptop

You don't have to buy a Dell branded adapter for your laptop. Many other manufacturers make adapters that are compatible. Just make sure the voltage and connectors are compatible with your laptop. Damage to your laptop resulting from an incorrect adapter will probably not be covered under your Dell warranty.

I recommend: Buy branded Dell adapters from Dell's website, which includes a selection tool to help you find the Dell notebook adapter. Buy non-Dell branded adapters that are compatible with Dell laptops from CDW, SimpleMicro, or Priority Electronics.

Look for a Dell AC adapter that has special features

Dell offers an adapter for some models that is lighter and thinner than other adapters. It features auto/air and AC capabilities. They also have adapters with longer cords that are 6 feet in length instead of the standard 3 feet.

I recommend: Check out the Dell Slim Auto/Air/AC Power Adapter. If you need a long cord, Dell offers adapters that have 6-foot long cords for several laptop models.

Get information about the Dell laptop AC adapter recall

Some adapters manufactured between 1998-2002 can overheat, causing a risk of electrical shock or fire. Dell received 7 reports of faulty adapters and issued a voluntary recall of certain model numbers.

I recommend: Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for more information about the adapter recall. Check the Dell Adapter Program website for affected product numbers and return information.

Check out the Dell power supply converter for desktops

Dell uses a proprietary power supply for many desktop computer models. It looks like standard ATX but is not. If you install a standard ATX power supply, the computer can be damaged. A Dell power supply adapter can be used on some models that allows an ATX power supply to be used on a Dell computer.

I recommend: Buy a power supply from Dell. Dell's website allows you to choose the right power supply based on your computer's service tag or model type. EndPcNoise.com and CoolTechPC.com offer a Dell power supply to ATX adapter. It is a quiet power supply that can be used in certain Dell models.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check the warranty offered by the adapter manufacturer. Most offer a one-year warranty.