Laptop power issues

[makare]

I'm about ready to throw this thing in the trash seriously.

I had to replace the power cord on my dell laptop last summer. Since then I have sometimes got messages that the power cord is not able to be determined, but it would still charge. Last night it stopped charging. Now when I plug it in it it keeps the power steady but won't charge the batter and when I disconnect the power cord the battery keeps it going. However there isn't much battery life left to it.

I read online that Dell does this thing where it only allows Dell power cords to be used.

What I want to know is 1. is there a way around that? and 2 why would it suddenly give me problems now after so much time has gone by?

 

[PatrThom]

1) Yes (depending on model)
2) Dunno. Machines fail. Someday, your HDD will die, too. All you can do is to prepare against the inevitable.

--Patrick

 

[makare]

It's a studio 1555

 

[makare]

If someone could help me find a cord that would be awesome >.>

 

[Matt²]

Do you still need this cord?