HP Pavilion Laptop Owners with Bad Power Jacks....

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Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

I totally agree with you that a company that thinks IT IS OK to produce bad
product and screw its customer is definitely REPREHENSIBLE. You are
absolutely right about one thing: Most people just take it laying down and
not voice their total dissatisfaction and kept quiet. That is why so many
companies get away with bad products and even worse, follow up services.
Some of those still DON'T get it even if they keep on loosing money and
customer. Their solution is to cut employees (HP cut about 18,000 plus in
teh last couple years). Moving the operation oversea to save a few more
dollars. I usually feel bad for my customers putting up with my heavy
accent till I have to deal with a couple big companies' HelpDesk. Could you
image a Chinese Guy trying to work with an oversea HelpDesk person
resolving a problem???? It is kind of SAD and FUNNY.

BTW, Thanks for posting the Standard Phonics. I forgot most of it since I
left the US Navy 20 years ago.

Dewaine

MEvsHP wrote:

> continuing to produce a product with a known design flaw is
> reprehensible. If thats how you spell it. People should get to hear
> about it and will from me. In addition, not covering that damage
> resulting from normal use in a warranty should be criminal. I have been
> talking with the executive office of customer relations and they say
> they will close the case adn mark it resolved if I file a complaint
> with the BBB. Its not resolved, I want to convince them that I am not
> going to go away. Does the BBB do anything anyway?
>
> HP fake warranty
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

Members of the BBB are the companies about whom complaints are made. So BBB
complaints, except against small more defenseless companies, are pretty useless.

Why not contact a governmental agency responsible for consumer affairs. Yes, I
know the federal consumer affairs are fangless beasts, having had their teeth
pulled in successive budget cuts by a regime most favorable to and favored by
big business. But state departments of consumer affairs still have some clout.

If some computer-chasing lawyer gets his (usually) act together, he can still
file a class-action lawsuit. But then class actions generally result in
handsome payments to the lawyers, not the claimants they allegedly represent.

Best course of action is to boycott HP and tell everyone the facts about how
lousy the notebook product is and why... Ben Myers

On 12 Feb 2005 09:07:56 -0800, "MEvsHP" <fullymanual@gmail.com> wrote:

>continuing to produce a product with a known design flaw is
>reprehensible. If thats how you spell it. People should get to hear
>about it and will from me. In addition, not covering that damage
>resulting from normal use in a warranty should be criminal. I have been
>talking with the executive office of customer relations and they say
>they will close the case adn mark it resolved if I file a complaint
>with the BBB. Its not resolved, I want to convince them that I am not
>going to go away. Does the BBB do anything anyway?
>
>HP fake warranty
>
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

Dell has a mass recall of the AC Adapter (PA-6). Did you check if the one
you have is among the recalled? Then again, if you stopped paying that
thing, I'll think you will have problem getting a replacement AC Adapter.
May have your friend to do the AC Adapter recall.

Dewaine

dell8100victim wrote:

> I too have the loose AC power connector problem on a Dell Inspiron
> 8100 -- that cost about $1800. Hardly cheap. The power assemblies
> themselves are unreliable. I've gone through about 6 of them. And
> the (*&)() at Dell have that ridiculous odd-shaped plug and jack.
> Shame on you Mr. Dell.
>
> One workaround that worked was to get an AC battery charger, and then
> rotate between the two batteries so that one is in confuser and the
> other is being charged. Eventually you'll lose ground as they
> discharge faster than they recharge. So the confuser is out of
> service for a while until you can catch up.
>
> I then replaced MBD. That worked great for about 6 months. Now the
> problem has returned on the replacement. Confuser is now 3 years
> old, so question is whether it's worth getting another MBD, or just
> biting the bullet and getting a new confuser. Problem with a new
> confuser is that it will probably have its own slate of issues.
>
> I boubht the Dell on credit and stopped paying Dell when their product
> stopped working. So far they haven't sued me for their money. I hope
> they do.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

BTW, there is a Company in NY City advertising that it will replaced the
broken Power Connector for $200. I forgot what the name of the company
is. You might have to do google search.

Dewaine

MEvsHP wrote:

> continuing to produce a product with a known design flaw is
> reprehensible. If thats how you spell it. People should get to hear
> about it and will from me. In addition, not covering that damage
> resulting from normal use in a warranty should be criminal. I have been
> talking with the executive office of customer relations and they say
> they will close the case adn mark it resolved if I file a complaint
> with the BBB. Its not resolved, I want to convince them that I am not
> going to go away. Does the BBB do anything anyway?
>
> HP fake warranty
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

I must also respectfully disagree with the "rough use" theory. My 9
month old ZX5000 has been used very carefully, and has the power jack
problem. I have an old ThinkPad which has seen much heavier use than
the Pavilion, and it does not do this. The jack/ mounting is poorly
designed.
Since I have 3 months left on warranty, HP will repair it, but I have
lost confidence in the brand, and will probably sell it before I have
to go through this again.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

I too have a bad power connection. It been repaired twice under
warrantee by changing the motherboard. I get about four months
out of it.

DREW
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

Hi Drew. Can you tell us if that means you purchased somethign like a
three year accidental damage warranty? I was told that was the only way
I would be covered in this situation. And people should know that once
you file a BBB claim you will no longer be able to talk to an HP case
manager.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware,comp.sys.laptops (More info?)

> Hi Drew. Can you tell us if that means you purchased somethign like a
> three year accidental damage warranty? I was told that was the only way
> I would be covered in this situation. And people should know that once
> you file a BBB claim you will no longer be able to talk to an HP case
> manager.
>
Just the simple one-year warranty. Had no problems getting fix so far.
Just like the idea of it only lasting four months.

DREW
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

I have ZT1180 model bought in 2002 @ 2000$.
I also have the same power problem.
Because I am out of warranty so did not contact hp support for this
problem.
I am thinking to use a docking station to keep the battery charged.
Has anyone used a docking station for this purpose or that would not
fix this problem.
any responses will be appreciated.
thanks.
Faran
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

If you can test out a dock for it and check without having to be stuck
with it I bet it is worth a try.

Good idea.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

Thanks MEvsHP,
I wonder if I can buy some Universal/Generic Docking Station for this
purpose. That means even if does not work with this model zt1180, I
could use it for other notebooks.
But so far could not see any cheaper than 250$ Docking station which
can be used with multiple/all notebook models.
Any ideas or suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks.

Faran
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

I dont see that model at online Docks and Port Replicators sellers. You
should ask HP directly what, if any, would work. I would also consider
finding an electronics person to resolder the AC pin to the
motherboard, just make sure they can take the thing apart ok.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

On 11 Mar 2005 09:30:32 -0800
"MEvsHP" <fullymanual@gmail.com> wrote:

> I dont see that model at online Docks and Port Replicators sellers. You
> should ask HP directly what, if any, would work. I would also consider
> finding an electronics person to resolder the AC pin to the
> motherboard, just make sure they can take the thing apart ok.

I'd be more interested in making sure they can put it
back together OK.

--
Stefaan
--
As complexity rises, precise statements lose meaning,
and meaningful statements lose precision. -- Lotfi Zadeh
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

It's not only HP that has that problem. I fix laptops every day and I
see all the brands from the old to the newest with the same problem
“POWER JACK” ! I Anyhow the company that I work for is in NY and
they charge only $100 for any power jack repair.

REPLY: BTW, there is a Company in NY City advertising that it will
replaced the
broken Power Connector for $200. I forgot what the name of the company

is. You might have to do google search.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

my xt4316 is doing the power dance, pisses me off.
My ex laptop, toshiba 1555cds did it .

the old laptops liek the old grey toshiba bricks(i call them) seem to
hold up, we have an old toshi and it's a workhorse, it's still working
after 10 years!
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

800tech... I think if you read the post I stated Its NOT only HP and
Compaqs.. I repair all brands and have seen this issue on just about
Every laptop made.. We do these for 89.00 plus the return ship fee.
Unless its a new Dell with the Foxconn connector similar to a Sony
jack.. These are not available even from the manufacturer and weve
actually had to on occasion replaced with a different style jack and
adapter cord.. (Not the end) As these are a 3 lead circuit.. 19V,
Neg, And a 3v Circuit feeding back to the adapter. Weve also had
excellent luck upgrading the HP and Compaq as well as Gatewaste jacks
to a more suitable replacement that holds up better to the current
draw and heat dessipation.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

> ikenfixitwrote:
800tech... I think if you read the post I stated Its NOT only HP and
Compaqs.. I repair all brands and have seen this issue on just about
Every laptop made.. We do these for 89.00 plus the return ship fee.
Unless its a new Dell with the Foxconn connector similar to a Sony
jack.. These are not available even from the manufacturer and weve
actually had to on occasion replaced with a different style jack and
adapter cord.. (Not the end) As these are a 3 lead circuit.. 19V,
Neg, And a 3v Circuit feeding back to the adapter. Weve also had
excellent luck upgrading the HP and Compaq as well as Gatewaste jacks
to a more suitable replacement that holds up better to the current
draw and heat dessipation.

ikenfixit....Is there a contact number or email address for your
company? I would rather pay $89 and have a real fix than get an HP
repair for free under my warranty if it isnt going to hold up. Does
the $89 include the upgraded jacks? If not what is the cost of this?
If you cant post your company info here please PM me with the
info...Much appreciated!
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

New Dells have a connector that is fixed to the chassis as well as the
motherboard. Thats how they come. If you go to a third party repair you
VOID YOUR WARRANTY. My advice is that you utilize the warranty and
treat it nicely because its free, and if something else goes wrong, you
can still use your warranty.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

www.ikenfixit.com is our web address and all of the other info is
there as well. Glad if we can help out.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

MEvsHP wrote:
> New Dells have a connector that is fixed to the chassis as well as the
> motherboard. Thats how they come. If you go to a third party repair you
> VOID YOUR WARRANTY. My advice is that you utilize the warranty and
> treat it nicely because its free, and if something else goes wrong, you
> can still use your warranty.
>


I just had my HP nx9005 fixed by OK Computers in Boston. They replaced the
flimsy HP connector with an all metal threaded through the chassis power
connecter. I didn't take it apart to see how well the fix (soldering) was
but the connector seems sold as a rock now. $156.

Not a recommandation - just a comment.


/dan
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

Ok people..I may have an answer!. I had the same problem and I think I
have fixed it. My Compaq 3000 had the same problem. The connection to
the barrel of the power plug is a flimsy material that bends and soon
does not make significant contact with the barrel or not at all. I
used a compression coil spring to make more posative contact. It must
fit VERY closely over the barrel but slide and have very light
pressure..like a ball point pen spring. Cut off the spring so you
just have a few coils left. Close the cut end so it will contact the
barrel. Clean off the flat end of the spring with a file...it may be
coated to prevent rust...also the cut end that will contact the
barrel on the inside. Push the spring onto the barrel with the cut
end that fits tight on the barrel so it will be farthest from the
computer when the barrel is plugged in. The flat end of the spring
should now make a better connection and the power curcuit should be
what it needs to be. The spring should remain on the barrel plug if
you made it tight enough at the cut end.VERY IMPORTANT: My computer
uses the barrel end as the ground and the flimsy part of the computer
connection that is fastened to the case is the ground connection. DO
THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK...I just fixed mine and it immediately started
charging the battery...I thought the battery was bad. It also is
showing it is on 'plug in power' and it would not do that before..it
just charged the battery at a very slow rate because of the poor
connection...in fact I would have to turn it off because the computer
used power faster that the adaptor could charge the battery.
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

I had a Pavilion XT118 a year ago. I bought it refurb (just under
$1000) and within three months the power supply died. I bought a new
power supply, only to have the power connector stop accepting power
within another month. I called HP and to my surprise and relief it
was still under warranty and they fixed it. Phew.

Then, last November or so I ended up upgrading to a Pavilion zd7188cl
(another refurb) for about $1200. This was a great deal on a
wide-screen, desktop-class notebook (3.2GHz, HT, 80GB HD, etc.). To
my shock and horror the power supply went on the fritz three months
later. I got a new power supply and all was fine. For a month.
Then the power light on the notebook would sometimes blink off. I
bought a multimeter and tested that the supply is fine. If I jiggled
the power connector slightly it would come on again. Within a week it
simply stopped working altogether. Even though the laptop was put
into hibernate the last time I used it (and should have been at about
80% power), the next time I tried it to recover some documents, it was
completely dead. I called HP like the last time. Somehow it wasn't
under warranty. They want $600 to replace the mainboard. "No, it's
not a common problem" they assure me. So I Google it and come across
you. I could just scream. I haven't pursued it again at this point
(still in denial, actually).

The laptop generally sits on a desk surface with little movement. No
rough treatment, very gentle on the power connection. I had planned
on writing a letter to a higher-up VP and bringing it to their
attention, and possibly try to get something on Slashdot or The
Register. I'm very upset about it and am assuming that any tech on
the phone will follow the stated rules and won't give in. This needs
to be addressed.

I would be interested in a group effort. Not sure that class action
has much chance (how to get enough names?), but somehow I want
justice. In the meantime I struggle with the issue of paying for
authorized service or just getting it fixed somewhere. It seems that
if I get it fixed somewhere else I can't complain to HP anymore as
they would just say it's no longer their concern. AARRGGHH!!
 
Archived from groups: comp.sys.hp.hardware (More info?)

Have a detail log of the calls & Email correspondents to HP Tech Supports.
Have the repair shop gives you full description of the problem and repair
on the bill. Keep all of the above and if you do ended up filing a claim
against HP, you have the documents to back it up. Having a picture to
back it up is always nice.

Dewaine

atkulp wrote:

> I had a Pavilion XT118 a year ago. I bought it refurb (just under
> $1000) and within three months the power supply died. I bought a new
> power supply, only to have the power connector stop accepting power
> within another month. I called HP and to my surprise and relief it
> was still under warranty and they fixed it. Phew.
>
> Then, last November or so I ended up upgrading to a Pavilion zd7188cl
> (another refurb) for about $1200. This was a great deal on a
> wide-screen, desktop-class notebook (3.2GHz, HT, 80GB HD, etc.). To
> my shock and horror the power supply went on the fritz three months
> later. I got a new power supply and all was fine. For a month.
> Then the power light on the notebook would sometimes blink off. I
> bought a multimeter and tested that the supply is fine. If I jiggled
> the power connector slightly it would come on again. Within a week it
> simply stopped working altogether. Even though the laptop was put
> into hibernate the last time I used it (and should have been at about
> 80% power), the next time I tried it to recover some documents, it was
> completely dead. I called HP like the last time. Somehow it wasn't
> under warranty. They want $600 to replace the mainboard. "No, it's
> not a common problem" they assure me. So I Google it and come across
> you. I could just scream. I haven't pursued it again at this point
> (still in denial, actually).
>
> The laptop generally sits on a desk surface with little movement. No
> rough treatment, very gentle on the power connection. I had planned
> on writing a letter to a higher-up VP and bringing it to their
> attention, and possibly try to get something on Slashdot or The
> Register. I'm very upset about it and am assuming that any tech on
> the phone will follow the stated rules and won't give in. This needs
> to be addressed.
>
> I would be interested in a group effort. Not sure that class action
> has much chance (how to get enough names?), but somehow I want
> justice. In the meantime I struggle with the issue of paying for
> authorized service or just getting it fixed somewhere. It seems that
> if I get it fixed somewhere else I can't complain to HP anymore as
> they would just say it's no longer their concern. AARRGGHH!!
 
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