Inspiron 1501 Unique Battery/Power Issue

I have a Dell Inspiron 1501 that is about 2.5 years old. For about 6 months I've been having a batter/power issue. When I restart my computer it is quite sluggish. Typed letters are slow to appear, certain programs are very slow, the power meter doesn't recognize the battery, etc.

The weird thing is that if I unplug the AC adapter and allow the battery to drain to the point (about 7%) where the pop up text alerts me to plug in my computer before it shuts down, it then works great. After the message pops up, function is great, but the battery will not charge past 9%.

I'd like to have the best of both worlds with a laptop that works and has a full battery so I can travel with it. Any suggestions? I called Dell about the issue a few months ago and they suggested the issue may be the AC adapter and sent me a new one, but the problem remains. I've updated BIOS recently as well.

Thanks for any insight you can provide!

Reply 1 : Inspiron 1501 Unique Battery/Power Issue

Fortunately battery only have a year warranty you will need to purchase a new battery for the system.

Reply 2 : Inspiron 1501 Unique Battery/Power Issue

My friend has this issue too. Only she bought a new battery AND adapter and it doesn't work right! Say's it has a hard time determining what the adapter is! Like a fool I said I would look @ it! Back of system says it needs a "PA-12" adapter but can't find one to buy! Also it doesn't say if it is 90w or 65w. Currently she has a 65w and the connector doesn't seem to fit really well.ANY suggestion would be greatly appreciated!


Dell Inspiron 1501
AMD Turion 64 Mobile
Technology MK-36
797 MHz, 448MB ram
Physical address extension
Windows XP Media center edition
Version 2002
service pack 3

Thanks

Reply 3 : Inspiron 1501 Unique Battery/Power Issue

Call Dell up and see what they want to exchange.

If you didn't get the parts from dell, re-consider that and if you wonder why they lock out non-maker batteries and chargers research the old exploding battery problems and the lawsuits.
Bob