compatibility new power adaptor vaio sz
 

Hi all,

I'm a little tech naive, so sorry if question is rather obvious.

I have a Sony vaio laptop (SZ650N). I chose it for relatively light weight and ease of use -- it's my only computer, but I take it from/ to work every day, as well as travel reasonably frequently.

I've had it for a couple of years, and even purchase 3 year extended warranty etc. Anyway, last week or so, after a trip, I noticed that I need to 'jiggle' the power cord to charge the laptop. I figured it's either a loose connection or bent wire or something, but managed to just about live with it. A couple of days ago, however, I noticed that the insulation of the wire coming out of the 'brick' (to pc) is compromised, and in fact, can see bare wire which starts sparking when I move it about. OK, that's worrying. I call to see if this is covered -- sadly not -- warranty only covers the computer itself, not battery (which I knew) or power supply.

So I traipse to the sony store to buy a new power supply today. They didn't have the exact same one I have (VGP-AC19V25) -- in fact, that appears out of stock/ no longer made. But they said any 19.5V supply is fine, and sell me one (VGP-AC19V15). I pay the money, get home and open the box.

So, I'm dismayed to discover this GIANT brick -- about twice the size of my current one. It will be a real pain to travel with. In addition, my old supply stated output as 19.5V and 4.7A, this one says 19.5V and 6.2A.

I look at the vaio website, and there seems to be another supply, VGP-AC19V31, same price, that's lighter. And in fact, it states that it's compatible with sz, unlike the 19V15, which is apparently for the AR models.

So my questions are:
a) Will the different current output damage my computer?
b) For vaio users/experts, which power supply would be best for me, with size/ weight in particular an issue?
c) Can I return the current supply? I had to use it to write check FT today! So it's not unused, but it is barely used. I'm obviously going to call the store tomorrow, but I wanted to check here for my rights first...

FTers help, as always, appreciated,

tb

For my SX I purchased and used a Kensington Universal 120W power adaptor - smaller, lighter and more versatile than the Sony adaptor. We use it at home and on the road without issue.

Getting something like the Kensington should mean that you can leave other power bricks behind when you are on the road also.

No, it will be fine.

VGP-AC19V31 would be better, but only because it's lighter and not because of any technical reasons.

Thanks for the advice, that's reassuring.

I phoned the shop today, and will go by this evening to swap with the smaller model.

tb