Product Catalogs

AC Adapter Testing

2010-09-06 14:36:04 Author：Theone CopyFrom： Hits：0

AC Adapters that are not the switching type, can easily be tested with a DMM. The voltage you measure (AC or DC) will probably be 10-25% higher than the label specification. If you get no reading, squeeze, squish, and otherwise abuse the cord both at the wall wart end and at the device end. You may be able to get it to make momentary contact and confirm that the adapter itself is functioning.

The most common problem is one or both conductors breaking internally at one of the ends due to continuous bending and stretching. Make sure any voltage selector switch is set to the correct position. Move it back and forth a couple of times to make sure the contacts are clean.

It's also possible that the power jack on the device itself is damaged from use or abuse. If possible, confirm proper operation with a compatible adapter. With battery operated devices, there is usually a set of contacts that should close when the adapter is removed to connect the internal battery to the circuitry. If these don't operate properly, the device may not work off batteries, the AC Adapter, or both.