New Power cord for laptop will not charge computer.

I recently purchased a new power cord for my Dell Vostro 3700 laptop. It is not an original dell cord but one that should be compatible with my laptop. I noticed that the cord will power my laptop when plugged in, but it will not recharge the battery at all.

It is an 85v power cord. I am just wondering if I need to change something in my computer settings to allow this need cord to power the laptop and recharge the battery.

 

Shut the laptop down, pull the battery and re-seat it. If it still fails to charge, it means the battery needs replacing.

 

I agree with this.

Otherwise your description indicates "not an original dell cord" - a cord is a cord for most laptops and all PCs - can you find another cord to test?

 

Are you getting any messages about the power adapter at startup? As Bold Eagle mentioned, there are some newer Dell models that can sense whether the power adapter is genuine Dell or an aftermarket brand (a built-in ripoff to force you to buy a Dell brand replacement).

If you have to end up buying a Genuine Dell, don't get ripped off buying it from Dell for $80-$90. It's about $30 on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Dell-19-5V-Re...820836&sr=1-1&keywords=vostro+3700+power+cord