Notebook power adapters - basic question

I have a coupla older Compaq laptops. Their HP-branded power adapters are both rated at outputs of 19volts @ 3.95amps. (I guess the wattage would be 19x3.95=75.o5?)

BTW, I dunno if this affects the equation but as NZ units, they're 240v input.

My question: A local supplier of notebook accessories is trying to sell me a replacement adapter which rated at 18.5 volts @ 4.9 amps (approx 90 watts).

He says... "Hi this one here is the most popular replacement, slightly more powerful which just means it will last longer... "

Can someone tell me if this is a correct statement? I seem to recall reading somwhen that even small differences in voltage and amperage can be damaging to sensitive equipment.

Thanks

 

Your reading is correct - buy an exact match. I'm not going to say that what "the salesman" is trying to sell you won't work but why do you think your computer manufacturer doesn't include a universal one size fits all AC Adapter in the first place?

Here's a pretty good place to shop without going broke.

 

Rockster2U, thanks for your response. Unfortunately, buying gear from the US isn't really practical for us in NZ. Firstly, a $US30 item costs $NZ38. Second, freight from the US to NZ frequently costs more than the item. Finally, the power cords are different.

Cheers

 

It would work OK, cause no damage if the output is stable, the main thing is - is it made by a reputable manufacturer? The amperage figure quoted of 4.9 amps is the maximum output at which the power can be maintained at 18.5 volts, and I doubt very much that a notebook will be drawing more than 3 amps at any time.

Roger

 

Roger:

I appreciate your insight as should masonite. I urged caution because I've witnessed problems with "mis-matched" AC adapters, not just on computers but also peripheral equipment.

The link I supplied permitted me to purchase an "exact spec" replacement for a Compaq V6000 last week at one fifth of Compaq's going price. Since I made this a gift to one of our house painters, I was a pretty happy camper.