Radio Shack DC Power Adapter User manual

Owner’s Manual Please read before using this equipment.
Universal Notebook
Computer DC Power
Adapter
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2
ˆ Contents
Features ................................................................................. 6
Preparation ............................................................................ 8
Adjusting Output Voltage ................................................. 8
Selecting an Adaptaplug .................................................. 9
Installing an Adaptaplug ................................................ 10
Using the Adapter ........................................................... 11
Replacing the Fuse ........................................................ 13
Troubleshooting .................................................................. 14
Case Temperature ......................................................... 15
Care ............................................................................... 15
Specifications ..................................................................... 16
Compatible Computers ...................................................... 18
©2000 RadioShack Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
RadioShack, RadioShack.com, and Adaptaplug
are trademarks used by RadioShack Corporation.
Compaq is registered by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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WARNING:To reduce the risk of fire or shock hazard, do not ex-
pose this product to rain or moisture.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER OR BACK. NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSON-
NEL.
This symbol is intended to alert you to the pres-
ence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the
product’s enclosure that might be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.
Do not open the product’s case.
This symbol is intended to inform you that impor-
tant operating and maintenance instructions are
included in the literature accompanying this prod-
uct.
!
!
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4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This manual contains important safety and operating instruc-
tions for your adapter. Before you use the adapter, read all the
instructions and cautionary markings in this manual, on the
adapter, and on the product that you will connect to the adapter.
Warnings: To reduce the risk of injury:
• Do not disassemble the adapter; take it to a qualified ser-
vice technician when service or repair is required. Improper
reassemble may result in the risk of fire.
• Do not use an attachment not recommended or sold by
RadioShack or this could result in a risk of fire, injury to per-
sons, or damage to personal property.
• Never push any object into the air ventilation slots and
openings in the adapter. It could short out parts resulting in
a fire.
• Slots and openings on the bottom of the adapter are for
ventilation. To ensure reliable operation, and to protect the
adapter from overheating, be sure these openings are not
blocked or covered.
• Unplug the adapter from the DC power source before
attempting to adjust voltage, change the Adaptaplug, or
clean the adapter. Do not use liquid aerosol cleaners. Use
a damp cloth for cleaning, then wipe the adapter dry imme-
diately.
• Do not operate the adapter with damaged input or output
cords or plugs.
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5
• Make sure the cords are not located where they will be
stepped on, tripped over or otherwise subjected to damage
or stress.
• Disconnect the plugs from the socket by pulling on the
plugs rather than the cord directly.
• If your adapter does not operate normally, particularly if
unusual sounds or smells come from it, immediately unplug
it and contact your local RadioShack.
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6Features
ˆ Features
Your RadioShack Universal Notebook Computer DC Power
Adapter powers notebook computers and other electronic de-
vices by converting a nominal 12-volt input voltage to a regulat-
ed output voltage. It is reverse-voltage, over-current, and short-
circuit protected.
Caution: This adapter is intended for mobile use in automo-
biles, trucks, and boats, on commercial aircraft, or with 12V DC
portable power sources and is safe for outdoor use. Care
should be taken not to expose the adapter to rain, snow or wa-
ter as moisture could damage internal components.
The compact, lightweight adapter fits inside most computer car-
rying cases, and can recharge your computer's internal battery.
The adapter comes with a deluxe, padded vinyl case.
Your adapter's features include:
User-Adjustable Voltage Settings — lets you select the spe-
cific output voltage (in one-volt increments) by simply setting a
switch. The adapter can be set to deliver any voltage from 9 to
24V DC at up to 30 watts maximum.
Interchangeable Adaptaplug™Connectors — use one of the
five supplied RadioShack Adaptaplugs to connect the adapter
to most notebook computers. Additional Adaptaplugs are avail-
able at your local RadioShack store.
Special Custom Compaq

Plug — fits different types of Com-
paq laptop computers.
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7
Features
Power Indicator — an indicator lights when a power adapter is
properly connected and turns off when there is a fault in the cir-
cuit.
Cigarette-Lighter Fuse Holder — protects the adapter and the
automobile in the unlikely event of a short circuit.
Regulated Output Voltage — keeps the voltage stable within
an input range between 11 and 16 volts to ensure the proper
voltage is delivered to sensitive electronic components.
Low Input Voltage Shutdown Circuit — shuts down the
adapter when the input voltage falls below 7.6V DC to safe-
guard your vehicle’s battery.
Input Coil Cord — a special polyurethane material with “mem-
ory” capability enables the cord to stretch up to 5 feet and return
to its original compact size of about 12 inches to prevent tan-
gling.
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8Preparation
ˆ Preparation
ADJUSTING OUTPUT VOLTAGE
Warning: Your adapter provides direct current (DC) voltage. Do
not use it with devices that are not specifically identified as re-
quiring DC voltage. Do not use it with devices that require AC
voltage. Damage to the device could result.
Follow these steps to adjust the output voltage.
Caution: Make the proper voltage setting before you connect
the adapter to an input power source.
1. Determine the required output voltage setting of the
adapter by one of the following four methods:
• Refer to “Compatible Computers” on Page 18 for volt-
age, tip size, and polarity settings.
• Note the voltage indication marked next to the input jack
on the device to be powered. Example:
Vin = 18VDC
or
18VDC
.
• Review the power or ID plate on the device to be pow-
ered. Look for the word
“INPUT”
followed by a number
and
VDC
. Example:
INPUT: 18VDC
.
• Review the power or ID plate on the AC power adapter
usually used to power the device. Look for the word
“OUTPUT”
followed by a number and
VDC.
Example:
OUTPUT: 18VDC
.
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9
Preparation
If the power adapter or computer indicates a voltage range,
use the voltage closest to the mid-range. Example:
OUT-
PUT: 10–16VDC
; set the power supply to 13VDC.
Note: The specific notation “VDC” might
not be indicated. Instead, the international
symbol shown to the right might be used.
In rare cases when the voltage setting is between whole
numbers, such as 15.5VDC, use the lower setting first
(15VDC). If the device does not seem to operate properly,
readjust it to the higher value (16VDC).
2. Use the supplied tool, or a small, flat-bladed screwdriver, to
turn the voltage selector dial until the arrow points to the
desired voltage.
SELECTING AN ADAPTAPLUG
The adapter comes with five Adaptaplugs and a Compaq cus-
tom plug. The Adaptaplug colors and sizes are:
• Blue (M) — 5.5 ×2.1 mm
• White (N) — 5.5 ×2.5 mm
• Yellow (D) 5.5 ×3.3 ×1.0 mm
• Green (Q) — 6.3 ×3 mm
• Yellow (T) — 6.5 ×4.3 ×1.4 mm
V
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10 Preparation
To select the correct Adaptaplug:
1. Disconnect the AC adapter you are replacing from the AC
outlet and from the device to be powered.
2. Refer to “Compatible Computers” on Page 18 or examine
the output connector of your computer’s AC adapter and
compare it with the Adaptaplugs supplied with your
adapter.
3. Select the Adaptaplug that resembles the original plug and
insert it into the device to be powered. It is important that
the inside and outside diameter be the correct size to
ensure proper electrical contact. If it is too small or large,
additional Adaptaplugs are available at your local
RadioShack store.
Note: Some Compaq models require the special Compaq
plug.
INSTALLING AN ADAPTAPLUG
Warning: To avoid damage to the device you are using, make
sure that the Adaptaplug is installed correctly. If you have trou-
ble installing it, take the device to be powered (with all its acces-
sories) and your adapter to your local RadioShack store for
assistance.
Caution: Install the Adaptaplug before you connect the adapter
to an input power source.
To use your adapter, your computer must have a DC input jack
and you must determine the polarity of this jack to correctly con-
nect the adapter.
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11
Preparation
This symbol means that the inside contact, or
TIP, is negative (–).
This symbol means that the inside contact, or
TIP, is positive (+).
The adapter's plug must match your device's DC input jack with
respect to polarity (positive to positive and negative to nega-
tive).
Note: If the polarity symbol is not displayed on the device to be
powered, it might appear on an ID plate on the computer power
supply or the original adapter.
According to the jack's polarity, insert the Adaptaplug into the
output cord by aligning the correct polarity symbol (+ or –) on
the Adaptaplug with the word TIP on the output cord.
USING THE ADAPTER
After you have properly adjusted the output voltage and in-
stalled the Adaptaplug, follow these steps to use your adapter.
For Tip
Negative
For Tip
Positive
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12 Preparation
1. Insert the Adaptaplug's tip into the DC input jack on the
device to be powered.
2. Insert the adapter's cigarette-lighter plug into any DC outlet
with a power rating of 12 VDC.
Suitable receptacles include automobile cigarette-lighter
sockets and 12-volt power ports, portable 12-volt battery
packs, airline seats with 11 to 16V DC capabilities and the
appropriate receptacles, and solar panels with power capa-
bilities of 11 to 16 volts at 40 watts (minimum).
The indicator on the power bank lights when an adapter is prop-
erly connected and the device is receiving power.
Notes: If the green indicator on the power bank does not light,
disconnect the adapter from the device being powered, then
check the Adaptaplug's connection for the correct polarity orien-
tation. This could also indicate a problem with your computer or
with the adapter. Take your adapter and/or computer to your lo-
cal RadioShack store. Some automobiles require the ignition to
be turned on, or to the ACC (accessory) position to provide
power to the cigarette-lighter socket. You may have a blown
fuse for your vehicle’s cigarette-lighter socket or in the adapter’s
cigarette-lighter plug (see “Replacing the Fuse” on Page 13).
Caution: Save your data frequently! If you operate
your notebook computer after removing its internal battery, an
interruption in power might result in an immediate computer
shutdown and possible data loss. Such a power interruption
could be caused by:
• Accidently disconnecting either end of the power adapter.
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13
Preparation
• Starting your vehicle.
REPLACING THE FUSE
If the cigarette-lighter plug’s fuse is broken or blown, replace it
with a 5A 1/4×11/4-inch fast-blow, automotive glass type fuse.
To remove the fuse, turn the knurled knob counterclockwise
then remove the tip cap.
Caution: Do not use a fuse with ratings other than those speci-
fied. Doing so might damage your adapter.
To reassemble the cigarette-lighter fuse holder, insert the com-
ponents in the following order: 1) fuse, 2) tip cap with spring, 3)
knob.
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14 Troubleshooting
ˆ Troubleshooting
Some notebook computers have power supplies in excess of
the rating of this adapter (30 watts). In most cases, this higher
rating is used to both charge a completely discharged battery
and power the computer at the same time. This adapter can be
used for such applications, but it is recommended that the com-
puter's battery be recharged before using this adapter to oper-
ate the computer.
Caution: Except as noted for notebook computers (see “Com-
patible Computers” on Page 18), the power adapter’s 30-watt
rating must be equal to or greater than the requirement of the
device to be powered. Using an adapter that provides less cur-
rent can damage the adapter or the device being powered.
In the unlikely event of insufficient power, you may encounter
slower battery charging time or automatic shutdown of the
adapter. In case of automatic shutdown, try one or more of
these steps to reset the adapter:
• Disconnect the adapter from the device being powered for
about 30 minutes or until the adapter case returns to room
temperature and the green indicator comes on, indicating
the adapter is ready.
• Completely recharge the computer battery before using the
computer. Use the adapter to charge the battery, but do not
operate the computer during charging.
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15
Troubleshooting
• If the computer battery is easily removable, remove it from
the computer to eliminate the power requirement for
recharging.
Note: You can use this adapter to charge the battery in
your notebook computer by connecting it to the computer
with the battery installed, and leaving the computer turned
off.
CASE TEMPERATURE
This adapter is a high energy switching regulated power supply
and generates a significant amount of heat when used at peak
power for extended periods. It is not uncommon for the case to
become warm to the touch.
When using this adapter, care should be taken to avoid blocking
the air vents in the case. When possible, it is recommended that
the case be positioned to enable maximum air circulation.
CARE
Keep the adapter dry; if it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Use
and store the adapter only in normal temperature environments.
Handle the adapter carefully; do not drop it. Keep the adapter
away from dust and dirt, and wipe it with a damp cloth occasion-
ally to keep it looking new.
Modifying or tampering with the adapter’s internal components
can cause a malfunction and might invalidate its warranty and
void your FCC authorization to operate it. If your adapter is not
performing as it should, take it to your local RadioShack store
for assistance.
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16 Specifications
ˆ Specifications
Input
Voltage ................................................................................. 11–16V DC
Maximum Power .................................................................. 4 Amperes
In-rush Current .................................................. 5 Amperes, Cold Start
@Room Temperature (77° F, 25° C)
Minimum Standby Current ...................................... 62.0 mA @ 11VDC
58.8 mA @ 13.8 VDC
58.4 mA @ 16 VDC
Protection Features ............................................................ Fused Input
Reverse Voltage
Over Current
Fuse .................................................. 5A/250V 1/4 ×11/4-inch Fast-blow
Automotive Glass Type
Cord ...................................... 4-Foot UL Coiled Cord, Extended Length
Connector ............................................... Cigarette-Lighter Plug, Fused
Output
Programmable Voltages .................................................... 9 to 24V DC
Voltage Regulation ........................................................................ ±5%
Power ................................................................... 30 Watts (Maximum)
Output Cord ......................................... About 1.5 Feet with Receptacle
(0.45 Meters)
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17
Specifications
Mechanical
Dimensions ......................................................... 3.1 ×2.2 ×1.1 Inches
(80 ×57 ×30 mm)
Weight ......................................................................... Less than 8.4 oz
(240g)
Enclosure ............................... Injection Molded Cycolac ABS, UL94V-0
Indicator ................................................. Output Power-On LED (Case)
Environmental
Temperature:
Maximum Performance .......................... 32°to 122°F (0° to 50°C)
Operation ......................................... –22° to 140°F (–10° to 60°C)
Storage ............................................ –22° to 185°F (–30° to 85°C)
Humidity:
Operation ........................................ 10–90% RH Non-condensing
Storage ............................................. 5–95% RH Non-condensing
Altitude:
Operation ........................... –1,000 to 10,000 ft. (–300 to 3,000 m)
Storage ............................ –1,000 to 49,000 ft. (–300 to 15,000 m)
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are
subject to change and improvement without notice.
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18 Compatible Computers
ˆ Compatible Computers
The Universal Notebook Computer Power Adapter is compati-
ble with all notebook computers listed in the following table. The
table is not necessarily comprehensive, though, so your note-
book computer could work with this adapter even though it is
not listed. Verify it against your computer’s original
power supply, as manufacturing changes are sometimes made
in mid-production. As long as the voltage and power require-
ments of your computer are satisfied by this universal adapter,
you can use it to power the computer. Many sizes of Adapta-
plugs are available from your local RadioShack store if the size
you need is not supplied with the adapter.
Manufacturer Model No. Volts Tip
Color Tip Polarity
Acer 1100LX 18 White NEG
ALR Venture 16 21 White POS
ALR Venture 386SX 21 White POS
Altec Lansing Multimedia
CD-ROM 12 Blue POS
Apple Stylewriter
Printer 9BlueNEG
AST Advantage
486sx/25 21 Blue NEG
AST Advantage
Explorer 21 Blue NEG
AST Advantage
Notebooks 21 Blue NEG
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19
Compatible Computers
AST Ascentia 800 19 White POS
AST Ascentia 800N 19 White POS
AST Ascentia 810N 19 White POS
AST Ascentia 950N 18 Blue POS
AST Ascentia P
Series 19 White POS
AST Bravo
Notebooks 14 Green POS
AST BravoL/CDX2-
66 21 Blue NEG
AST Explorer
Notebooks 14 Green POS
Atari Stacy 17 Blue NEG
Bondwell B200 9 Blue POS
Bondwell B210 9 Blue POS
Bondwell B310 9 Blue POS
Bondwell B310+ 9 Blue POS
Bondwell B310A 9 Blue POS
Brother HJ100i 9 Blue NEG
CAF 386SX 18 White POS
Canon 200LS 19 Blue POS
Canon BJ-10e 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJ-10ex 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJ-10sx 9 Blue NEG
Manufacturer Model No. Volts Tip
Color Tip Polarity
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20 Compatible Computers
Canon BJ-20ex 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJ-30 13 Green POS
Canon BJ-5 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJC-210 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJC-4100 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJC-610 9 Blue NEG
Canon BJC-70 13 Green POS
Canon Innova NoteJet
486 20 Green POS
Canon InnovaBook
1000 20 Green POS
Canon InnovaBook
350CD 20 White POS
Canon InnovaBook
350P 20 White POS
Canon InnovaBook 475 20 White POS
Coax Coax 386SX 21 White POS
Coax SmartBook V-
Star 19 Blue POS
Coax Ultrathin 386SX/
20 19 White POS
Compaq 5300 18 Blue POS
Compaq Armada M300 18.5 Yellow POS
Compaq Concerto 4/25 18 Green POS
Compaq Concerto 4/33 18 Green POS
Manufacturer Model No. Volts Tip
Color Tip Polarity
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