Problems With a Dell Inspiron Battery

Types

dell inspiron battery

The Dell Inspiron laptop can use three types of batteries. The four cell, the six cell or the 9 cell battery. The higher the number, the greater amount of stored power. A four cell under typical conditions can last 1.5 to 2 hours. A 6 cell can last 2.5 to 3 hours. A 9 cell can last 3.5 to 4 hours. Determine your average usage and consider whether you need to buy a battery with more cells.

Considerations

Maintaining the battery

In addition to considering the amount of stored power available, you should look at the power saving practices of your computer. Go to your "computer control panel". Go to "Mobile PC or Power" settings. Go to change battery settings. Consider adjusting the settings to "power saving" or "balanced" to conserve battery power.

Prevention/Solution

exploded laptop due to faulty battery

Clean the battery's metal contacts with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. This helps the dell inspiron battery run efficiently.

Do not allow your fully charged battery to sit unused for more than two or three weeks. Never let a Lithium-Ion battery completely discharge.

Warning

dell dc power jack

In 2006, there was a recall on certain Dell models made between 2004 and 2006 because of problems with certain Sony batteries.

Expert Insight

Often it is not the battery that causes a problem, but the DC power jack. The jack connects the computer to the AC power adapter. If you have dropped or shaken your computer too much, it may have a loose or damaged power jack. Before seeking to replace your computer or dell laptop battery, check the power jack.