I had to get a new power adapter for my laptop. I ended up getting a “universal adapter” with several different tips. (I needed the adapter quickly.) None of the tips appeared to match my laptop’s adapter tip exactly, but one of them–the closest match–does supply power. Is it possible for one to deliver power yet somehow be unsafe for my laptop? I doubt the tip makes that kind of difference, but this is the kind of thing I could easily be wrong about.
There are two sets of measurements to consider when weighing damage probabilities: Electrical and mechanical.
Electrical compatibility would mean things like the voltage is sufficient to power the device but not excessive to the point of damage. The current supply must be adequate, too. There are other, usually more minor concerns like how smooth is the power but unless it is a real cheapie adapter, pretty much all is good. If one of these specs are out of the allowed range, you’re out of luck.
Mechanical damage is more likely, IMO. If the plug kind of sticks out and doesn’t mate properly, I think there are many more ways that the socket in the lappy can become damaged. This risk can be mitigated by observing the ‘Be Careful’ protocol. I wouldn’t say it is unsafe at all, just more prone to accidental breaking.
Okay, possibly it’s not fitting quite correctly–a bit of metal is visible between the tip and the laptop. I could jam it in, but, “be careful” sounds wiser.
Thanks for the info.
What is the universal adapter model # and what is your notebook model #?
If the coaxial barrel of the PS tip slides firmly into he female socket connector on the notebook the fact that some of the coaxial barrel is sticking out beyond the chassis is no big deal. The main issue is that the mating of the PS tip and chassis socket can be made without undue pressure and is firm and secure, and not wobbling around.