Powerbook 190cs Dead?

#1 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 - 02:39 68kMLA

I just picked up a 190cs for free. Came with Ethernet card but right now it won't boot. I have tried the reset button and removed the battery to see what would happen. So far no luck. Does it need the battery to work?

The powercord does have tape on it in two places so I think it may be related to that. I was told that sometimes it did not like to be booted except when squishing the back part of the case together.

#2 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 - 02:53 68kMLA

The power connector may need to be resoldered - a very common problem on the 190/5300 series. Requires disassembly, but not an especially onerous job.

#3 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 - 03:33 68kMLA

Goody. Not having a soldering gun or knowing how to use one this should be interesting. Oh well, back to waiting to see what else people are willing to give me or sell cheap.

#4 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 - 13:53 68kMLA

Soldering is easy to learn, and a small iron for electronics work can be had for around $20 and up. A soldering gun is too big and too powerful for fine work. It's a very handy skill to have if you're collecting vintage hardware - as you can see...

#5 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 - 08:08 68kMLA

So I opened it up. Apparently the previous owner had already done that as the middle screw was not a torx screw and it did not fit properly.

The power port looks secure:

I'm wondering if it could be the taped up adapter. I am thinking I might go to a store and see if I can find a 3rd party adapter that might work.