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Question

Difficulty: HardLaptop Power Systems and Battery Management

A technician is troubleshooting a laptop that operates normally while connected to its AC power adapter, but immediately shuts down when the adapter is unplugged, even though the operating system reports a 100%100\% battery charge. Physical inspection reveals that the trackpad is raised and sticking, indicating physical distortion of the lower chassis. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate next action for the technician to take?

  1. Disconnect all power sources and safely remove the battery, as it exhibits signs of physical swelling.Answer
  2. B
    Perform a deep discharge battery recalibration cycle to re-synchronize the battery fuel gauge with the operating system.
  3. C
    Connect a high-wattage charger to any available USB Type-C port on the laptop to bypass the main charging circuit.
  4. D
    Install a low-voltage desktop DDR4 DIMM module to reduce system power consumption.

Answer

Disconnect all power sources and safely remove the battery, as it exhibits signs of physical swelling.
The correct option addresses both the hardware symptom (raised/sticking trackpad due to internal expansion) and the primary safety protocol. Swollen Lithium-ion batteries present an immediate risk of fire or explosion and must be powered down, disconnected, and safely replaced before any further operation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the reported symptoms and physical evidence.
The laptop powering off instantly upon AC disconnection combined with a raised trackpad indicates internal battery swelling.
Swollen Lithium-ion batteries expand inside laptop enclosures, applying upward pressure on components directly above them such as trackpads and keyboards.
2
Identify the immediate safety hazard.
Swollen batteries are structurally compromised and pose a risk of thermal runaway, gas leakage, or fire.
Safety procedures take precedence over software troubleshooting or recalibration when physical battery damage is detected.
3
Select the correct mitigation procedure.
Disconnect power immediately and remove/isolate the swollen battery following proper hazardous waste handling standards.
Removing the damaged power cell prevents further chassis damage and eliminates the active risk of fire or thermal injury.

Key Concept

Laptop Battery Swelling Diagnostics and Safety Management
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Topics

Laptop Power Systems and Battery Management

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