Are you willing to know the pin size of your laptop charger? It could happen that there are some issues with your old adapter due to which you need a laptop charger replacement. So, you may now be thinking about how to know the pin size of laptop charger. Remember that these chargers are mandatory for a portable system and the pin size of the charger has to be accurate when you replace an adapter.
When it comes to laptop chargers, the “pin size” term indicates the diameter of the connector plugging into your laptop. The size of the charger pin is one of the factors you need to consider to ensure a secure as well as efficient power connection. The pin size needs to be aligned perfectly with the requirements of your laptop in order to reduce the risk of problems and promote reliable charging.
How To Know The Pin Size Of Laptop Charger
Different pins have different sizes. The sizes of these pins are usually given in fractions of an inch. However, a few manufacturers provide measurements for pin sizes in millimeters. If you are willing to measure the laptop pin, you first need to understand its size. For instance, the outer diameter is 5.5 mm, and the inner diameter is 2.5mm. In order to understand the instance, you have to know how to measure the outer diameter and inner diameter.
Outer Diameter:
Outer Diameter is the outer metal ring of the adapter’s tip. This has to match your port’s outer diameter when inserting. This outer diameter is measured in millimeters.
Inner Diameter:
The inner Diameter is the inner metal ring of the adapter’s tip. This has to be similar to the power socket’s measurement. This inner diameter is measured in millimeters.
In this way, you will get to know a power adapter’s pin size.
Input Voltage:
It is the voltage that is supplied to your power adapter and this voltage is always in AC or alternating current. In order to measure voltage, Volts (V) is used.
Output Voltage:
The power adapter supplies this voltage, which is always in DC (Direct Current). Ensure that it matches the output voltage specified for your laptop model.
Current:
Amperes (A) is the unit for its measurement. It is necessary to check that the compatible power adapter’s current matches the current that your laptop needs. In this case, you are able to consult with your laptop manual. Or you are capable of looking at the value that is specified for your damaged or old original power adapter. Ensure that the value is not varying even a little bit. Otherwise, your laptop components can be damaged.
Power (Watt):
It indicates the power amount that your laptop adapter consumes. Watts (W) is the measurement unit of Power. If you have matched the current and outer voltage properly, this value will be the same as the value available with your original power adapter. So, there is no need to match it. Power will be calculated as
P = V x I
Where P represents Power, V represents Voltage, and I represents Current.
Pin Size Of Laptop Charger Compatibility:
In order to make sure that your laptop charger supports your device, the pin size is important. If the pin size of your charger is wrong, it can cause troubles like a loose connection and inefficient charging. It can even cause potential damage to the charging port of your laptop.
If you are willing to avoid any mishap, you have to identify the pin size before buying any charger. If you want an exact match, you need to know some terminologies like barrel connector, pin size types, power connecter sizes, etc.
Laptop Charger Pin Types:
These pins are available in various sizes and shapes. Every charger pin is tailored to fit particular laptop models.
Type 1) Cylindrical Pins:
These are the most common types of charger pins. Cylindrical pins are available in different sizes. The most common sizes are 4.0mm x 1.7mm and 5.5mm x 2.1mm. These pins come with cylindrical shape, and the inner and outer diameters will determine their size.
Type 2) Rectangular Pins:
Old laptop models use these pins, which come in a flat rectangular shape. The size of these pins is measured in millimeters.
Type 3) Coaxial Pins:
These are available in 3.5mm x 1.35mm and 4.8mm x 1.7mm sizes. Coaxial pins come with a center pin, and a metal collar or sleeve surrounds it and helps to secure the connection.
Type 4) USB-C Connectors:
MacBooks, ultrabooks, and other modern laptops use USB-C connectors for charging. USB-C has the capability of handling both power and data transfer. In addition, due to small and reversible designs, these pins have become popular.
Type 5) MagSafe Connectors:
These were used in older MacBook models. This type of connector is available with a special magnetic attachment, using which charger can prevent accidents by getting easily detached.
Laptop Pin Size Types:
We have already discussed that there are different types of connectors. You should know that in the same way, the sizes of these connectors will vary. So, you need to find out which size of the pin will be suitable for your laptop. Every adapter comes with a different laptop charger hole. So, remember that knowing the correct pin sizes is as important as the laptop power connectors.
Type 1) Barrel Connector Size:
This type of connector is a cylindrical plug that helps to transmit power to electronic devices. Two key dimensions are used to characterize it — outer diameter (OD) and inner diameter (ID). The common size of this connector is 5.5mm x 2.1mm. In this case, the outer diameter is 5.5mm, whereas the inner diameter is 2.1mm.
The outer diameter is the size of the connector’s outer ring. On the other side, the inner diameter refers to the size of the central pin. To determine the compatibility of the connector, you need to match the dimensions precisely with the power input of your device.
Type 2) Barrel Plug Size:
It is the counterpart to the barrel connector. The barrel plug is designed in a way that it can fit into the connector. It has outer and inner dimensions, mirroring those of its connector. A common size of a barrel plug is 5.5mm x 2.1mm. However, you can find 6mm x 3mm, which is similar to the size of the corresponding connector. In order to transmit power efficiently, a snug fit between the connector and the plug is required.
Type 3) DC Power Plug Sizes:
DC power plugs are available in multiple sizes and types and are used for DC power connections. You should know that these plugs can vary in dimensions and shapes. 3.5mm x 1.35mm, 4.0mm x 1.7mm, and 5.5mm x 2.5mm are the common sizes of DC power plugs. The plug size you need to choose depends on the particular requirements of your laptop charger ports.
Type 4) DC Power Connector Size:
It is much like the barrel connector. While the size of the power connector is cylindrical, it helps to transmit DC power. You can see the usage of these connectors in CCTV cameras, routers, and LED lighting. In order to ensure that the power connection is secure, the size of these connectors has to be accurate.
Type 5) AC Adapter Tip Sizes:
It indicates connector dimensions or the AC adapter’s tip that plugs into the laptop. The tips are available in different shapes and sizes. 100-240V is the voltage it supports. Remember that when it comes to,select compatible laptops and ensure the power transmission remains uninterrupted, different dimensions are pivotal.
How To Test Laptop Charger:
As soon as you finalize the adapter or connector, you need to match the charger specs with the old charger. For instance, the specs include pin sizes, types, voltage, wattage, etc. After that, you have to test the laptop charger. Once you match the specs, you need to insert the connector into your laptop’s hole.
Ensure that it is performing properly. There should not be any overheating problems or charging failures. If you see your charger causing troubles, you need to instantly unplug it to keep your laptop safe. Additionally, you have to ensure that the connector fits in the hole in order to prevent the connectors from getting loose in the future and causing issues because of fluctuations in the power supply.
So, you should test these things in the laptop charger to keep your laptop safe. Moreover, you should not select any outdated and malfunctioning charger. If necessary, you can consult with a professional technician to get assistance.
How To Determine The Tip Size Of Laptop Charger:
You should follow these steps to determine the laptop charger’s tip size:
Locate The Pin: You can find the pin at the end of the charger cable, where it will connect to your laptop or power adapter.
Measure The Diameter: If you want to measure the pin’s diameter, you can use a ruler or caliper. You need to note the measurement because you may require it later.
Check The Specifications: After measuring the diameter, you need to compare this to your laptop charger’s specifications. You can find these specifications in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Consult The Manufacturer: Are you not sure about the tip size of the charger? Didn’t you find the specifications? Then, you need to contact the manufacturer directly. They will give you accurate information regarding the charger’s tip size.
The Bottom Line:
In this article, we have discussed how to know the pin size of laptop charger. In order to ensure a secure power connection, you need to ensure that the pin size is aligning perfectly with the requirements of the laptop. Moreover, you need to pay attention to the polarity and voltage of the plug’s output.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can you check connector size?
If your device is using a plug connector, you can use calipers and measure the inner and outer diameter to determine the plug size required by your device.
- How do I read my laptop charger specs?
While reading an adapter label, you will find the VDC under the DC symbol. You can see the AC symbol as a wave, while the DC symbol will be available as a solid dash and have three short dashes underneath it. In this case, you should know that the DC voltage is the adapter’s output voltage and generally it remains much lower compared to the input AC voltage.
- Can an HP charger charge a Dell laptop?
Yes, most of the time, an HP charger will be able to work with a Dell laptop. But sometimes, you can see an “I can’t determine the wattage of the charger type” message.
