Solved! Laptop not starting up -- nothing

[Kenneth Vaughn]

A friend gave me a gateway NV 7802U. I bought a universal laptop charger but I can't get anything. No lights no fans no power at all. What should I do?

 

[webworkings]

First, are you sure that the charger you bought is actually the right specs for that laptop? In most cases it is better to go with original parts for laptop chargers and batteries rather than aftermarket or general ones.

NOTE: Yes, I know some batteries are not so easy to get to, on some devices. However, it should be removable/replaceable. Unless it is under warranty, then you should contact the manufacturer first.


Try the following and see if it will turn on...

1. Unplug your charger cord.
2. Remove the battery.
3. Press and hold the "Power" button for 30 seconds.
4. Now plug back in the power/charger cord.
5. Now put the battery back in.

If this doesn't help, then test the power cord to see if it is good. Either try your cord in another device, or try another devices cord in your laptop. You may also want to try charging it when the device is off, rather than on. If it works then, the cord is probably the issue.

Should that not be the problem, then check the battery to see if it needs replacing.

If you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself, then I would try a local tech.