Question Is a regular charger safe to use 24/7 (laptop as HTPC)?

[nathanielf2]

I am planning on turning my old laptop (Lenovo Thinkpad E520) into an HTPC/Plex client. I have used it for this before but after a few months the AC adapter stopped working. It was a cheap eBay replacement and before I buy more I want to be sure it is (1) not going to short and cause a fire and (2) there isn't a better/more reliable type of power supply that is designed for continuous use that I could get instead.

 

[lvt]

A genuine adapter would last longer but if you want to run it 24/7, you should think about a cooling solution for the adapter.

Another solution is to find a small, universal 20V/5A industrial adapter, it usually comes in an aluminum case with grill for better cooling.