Computer help

[okko]

The input for the power adapter on my laptop's motherboard spontaneously fried the other day. I was told by some tech support guy that I need to replace the motherboard (probably around $200) or get a new laptop.

However, I feel like I should be able get away with using an external battery charger as an alternative to the adapter because the battery is totally fine. Obviously this would limit the amount of time I could use the laptop in a day, but I'm not too worried about that. I do want to know if this is a viable long term solution, though, or if I would wear down the battery more quickly by taking this approach.

I also found this website (http://www.powerjackrepair.org/hppavilionzd7000friedmotherboardnearthedcjack.html) which says you can send your laptop to these folks who can repair the part of the motherboard that fried ($100).

Thoughts? advice?

[xcworldchamp]

first check and see if your laptop is in warranty, some companies give a warranty that lasts several years

I don't know if the battery charger option is viable, I used my laptop on battery power quite a lot and the battery died in a year - though you could probably go through 3 or 4 batteries cheaper than replacing the motherboard

[okko]

warranty expired long ago. thanks for the input though

also, a bit more context: it's a big ol' gateway almost 3 years old (I don't know the specific model off the top of my head)

[geds]

I would strongly consider just getting a new laptop. Prices have come down and the $100 you would spend on the motherboard or battery would go a long way toward paying for a new laptop. Christmas is almost here, maybe Santa would kick in to help pay for it.

[skurey]

After 20 minutes of watching a video on Chrome it gets really choppy. But then I close Chrome and open it back up and it goes back to normal. Why is this and how do I fix it?