Laptop Transformer Substitute

[dunadan]

Hi - Can anyone help me please?

I have a Sony Vaio laptop which should run on a transformer with the output of 16V, 4amps

However, I only have a Sony Vaio transformer with the output of 16V, 3.75amps.

The polarity of the substitute transformer matches the laptop, but could you possibly tell me the following?

a) Would the transformer run the laptop?

b) Is there any chance of the transformer damaging the laptop?

c) Is there any chance of the laptop damaging the transformer?

d) What is the likelihood of the transformer overheating?


Any advice offered would be much appreciated.

Adrian

[PrntRhd]

yes,
yes,
yes,
yes,
quite good.
It is safer to use the transformer designed for the notebook.

[pangea33]

I am not an electrical engineer, but wanted to add a little info to PrntRhd's detailed post. :-P (J/K) Even though the voltages match up, electrical current (amps) can be compared to the supply capabilities/needs of a given device.

Plugging in something that uses less current than a line can supply is typically not a problem. Many people have miniscule night lights plugged directly in a 15 amp home circuit. The device consumes only what it needs.

The power consuming device might demand anywhere up to its rated current at any given time. Lower quality devices probably even exceed this once in a while. None of this changes your situation, but it might give you a little more of an explanation.

[dunadan]

Thanks both of you - I think I have both the long and the short of it! :-)

[Sylvander]

It is normal practice for engineers/designers to ALWAYS include a "Factor of Safety", so that things are ALWAYS more than capable of fulfilling their function.
There's always some spare capability.
Things must never be working at the limit of their abilities.

Don't know if electronics designers do the same.

[Fruss Tray Ted]

Laptops use power supplies (transformers) that can run the computer and charge the battery at the same time. In your case, the battery will just take longer to reach full charge.

I have 2 power supplies for my Toshiba and they are two entirely different wattages (volts x current = watts) but both work fine.

[saphalline]

You always take a risk when you mess with electricity. If you aren't using the power converter specifically designed for that laptop then yes, there's always a chance of something bad happening. The closer it is to the ratings, the more chance it will work fine. I guess it's up to you if you want to risk it. Some of us wouldn't, some of us are already doing it.

I guess in this case, the medium of it would be: it's your choice.