I have a Compaq Presario 1200. Just a basic notebook for everyday stuff I do. I already had to have the ac adaptor connector inside fixed once (still under warranty at that time-think it was up last August). Now it's broken again and a shop is saying I need a new motherboard since it's cracked so bad. Anybody have any advice? Recommend another type of computer? Anybody have trouble with Compaq's and their ac adaptor connectors? I'm so bummed. I don't have $500+ to fix the darn thing!
I can't really offer advice, just a recommendation. I had a Compaq laptop (purchased 11/99) and had to return it twice before trading it in finally for a Sony Vaio laptop. The Compaq kept having problems with the screen (would flicker and bottom half would do weird things). I've had the Sony since 12/99, so we're talking 2.5 years old. Haven't had anything serious wrong with it. Biggest problem was a hinge that cracked (while under warranty) that Sony replaced. It's a nice laptop, however it's getting to about that time where I want to upgrade. Mine is a Pentium 2 with 64 MEGS of RAM, 6.4 gig HD, CD-ROM, etc. gets a little sluggish at times.
You could try using another ac adapter. I don't think you would be able to physically damage the motherboard unless you dropped the laptop on the ground.
I just sold my Compaq Presario 1230 I've had since 05/99. I've never had any problems with it. It even got rained on once. I just took it apart and blew it out with one of those cans of compressed air and it worked just fine. The only problem was I outgrew it. 333mhz 96mg of ram and 4 gig hdd. I can only hope my next laptop works as well! But I can tell you one thing, I've never met a Compaq desktop worth any thing.
No, it was never dropped. I just would move it from my desk onto my lap while I relaxed in my bed. It literally just made a slight turn but I guess that was enough. (This is using it with the adaptor in it). The computer guy I had check it has a standard rate for the servicing of this part, he sees it often, so it's not unusual. My brother also is a computer tech and his instructors and co workers all talk about how most parts in these computers and other electronics aren't meant to really last. (no surprise there really) And if they had fixed it right when it was under warranty, my guy said it would have lasted a whole lot longer, but since they sort of "silly puddied" it together, it was bound to tear up the motherboard. I don't really know or care anymore. I just know I will never trust a compaq again ever. After reading all the other complaints out there on the same issue as mine, I don't feel alone in the least. It DOES happen A LOT!!! I should have done more research before I bought the darn thing. Live and Learn.
I have never had any luck w/ compaq computers..desktop or laptop. I happen to work for a leader in the computer industry and have done much research on laptops previous to my own purchase. Of course I ended up going w/ my company but that is because of the employee discount. Other things that I considered were #1 the warranty. Don't overlook it, like I see so many people do everyday. #2 Service- make sure it is easy to come by and it is always nice to have some one to go and see not listen to an automated machine or leave a voicemail. As far as researching them you will find that besides the two points above most systems from the leading dogs are extremly campatiable. The parts used to build them are usally from the same manufactures.Usually the only big difference is the name on the outside of the case.
I repair/upgrade computers and have no use for HP, Dell, Gateway or Compaq. To proprietory which means you spend a fortune repairing/upgrading them. I have had a lot of luck with Sony and Toshiba systems. They are still somewhat proprietory but not as bad as the 4 I mentioned above. We have a Mag laptop, only a 266MHZ. I only use it for running tax software and playing a few old games. It has never given me a problem.
Thanks Techman, my brother told me the same about Dell and Gateway. I'm going to look into a Sony. I'll for sure never get another Compaq or the others. I have an HP digital camera and it's a $260 peice of junk also. I'd never buy any of their other products. Thanks for your help and everyone else's!! Newstdt
