Computers & Tablets

[krusej19]

I just purchased an Asus VivoBook Max X541SA 15.6" Laptop - Intel Pentium - 4GB Memory - 500GB Hard Drive - Matte IMR and the power will only stay on when it is plugged in . If I unplug it to run on battery, it automatically shuts down.  Is this a typical issue/problem with these laptops?

Please advise.

Jill

[hockeycanuckjc Community Veteran]

Is the battery detachable? Can you de-tach and re-attach and see if it works if possible? If the battery is not removable, see if the manufacturer has a BIOS update available for your system. If not, you can return it for an exchange or refund providing you are within the refund and return policy here: https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/return-exchange-policy/pcmcat260800050014.c?id=pcmcat260800...

[belac116]

I purchased two of the exact same Asus laptop -- one for me and one for my wife -- a little over a month ago (8/19/2017). We are experiencing the same issue with both computers. They both shut down almost always when not plugged in, usually only after 5-20 minutes, while the battery is still over 90% charged.

I didn't use my computer unplugged until just recently so I'm afraid I didn't detect the problem within the return policy timeframe.

Have you found any solution to this issue? I have not at this point.

[bobberuchi]

Sounds like a battery issue. I would suggest calling the manufacturer if still under warrentty.

[xl]

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@belac116 wrote:

I didn't use my computer unplugged until just recently so I'm afraid I didn't detect the problem within the return policy timeframe. 

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Thoughts....

• I recommend contacting the manufacturer as the machine is less than 2 months old.
• BTW.... Laptops should not be plugged in 24/7.  You should try to use the battery occassionally.  My machines are connected to electrical timers to use the battery about an hour or so a day.

[belac116]

Thanks for the advice.

As an update:

I realized that the computers shut off as I described above whenever I pick up the laptop (i.e. to move it from the desk to my lap). So something with the battery is just not connected right.

I called ASUS and explained the problem that is happening on both laptops. After trying a few things they suggested (uninstall/reinstall drivers; factory reset), the problem persisted. So they had me send them back to them for repair or replacement. I haven't gotten them back yet but will update if I have any pertinent information.

[Jb0579]

What was your diagnosis? I have the same problem and its me off!

[Dave-BBY Retired: Social Media Specialist]

Hello Jb0579,

In most cases, when a laptop does not operate unless the power cord is plugged in you're looking at a possible battery issue. While other larger issues may be an option (like the motherboards power management) this is the most common and cheapest one to diagnose. On some laptops you have the ability to reset the computers PCU simply by disconnecting it from an outlet and holding the power button for 10 to 15 seconds. This should drain it of any leftover current, clear a few things on the board, and possibly be the solution to your issue. However, if this doesn't work, I'd suggest visiting a local Geek Squad and having the laptop looked over for further diagnosis. 

[belac116]

It was a real pain in the butt. I sent both computers to Asus (after trying everything they instructed to correct the issue myself), and I got them back after about a week and a half. But the issue wasn't fixed! So I sent them both back (at their expense), and when they returned the second time everything was resolved.

It was some kind of battery issue but I was never told the specifics. 

[Jb0579]

Well I can pull out a battery and replace it. It's just a pain in the backside, especially this model cuz the entire cabinet needs to come off.