Laptop battery shows 100% but shuts down when unplugged

Having a laptop battery that shows 100% but unexpectedly shuts down when unplugged can be a frustrating experience.

Adjust Advanced Power Settings

1. Click on the Start menu and type “Power Options” in the search bar. Select “Power Options” from the search results.
2. In the Power Options window, you will see different power plans. Select the one that is currently active (usually called “Balanced”).
3. Next, click on “Change plan settings” next to the active power plan.
4. In the following window, click on “Change advanced power settings”.
5. A new window will open with various power options. Scroll down and expand the “Battery” section.
6. Here, you can adjust different settings related to your laptop’s battery. For example, you can change the percentage at which your laptop will hibernate or sleep when on battery power.
7. You can also adjust settings related to the display, hard disk, and USB devices under their respective sections.
8. Once you have made the desired changes, click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the new settings.

Utilize Power Troubleshooting Tools

A multimeter measuring laptop battery power.

If your laptop battery shows 100% but shuts down when unplugged, there are power troubleshooting tools you can utilize to identify and resolve the issue.

First, check the power cord and make sure it is properly connected to both the laptop and the power source. If the connection seems loose, try using a different power cord or adapter.

Next, check the battery itself. Remove the battery from the laptop and inspect it for any visible damage or corrosion. If you notice any issues, it may be time to replace the battery.

To further troubleshoot the problem, you can use a voltage meter to test the battery’s voltage. This will help determine if the battery is holding a charge or if it needs to be replaced.

Additionally, you can use power troubleshooting software provided by the laptop manufacturer to diagnose any potential software-related issues. These tools can help identify any power management settings that may be causing the problem.

If the issue persists, it may be necessary to contact the laptop manufacturer or a professional technician for further assistance. They can provide guidance on potential hardware repairs or warranty options if applicable.

Perform a Hard/Power Reset

Laptop with a power button

Performing a hard/power reset can help resolve the issue of a laptop battery showing 100% charged but shutting down when unplugged. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Shut down your laptop completely.
2. Disconnect the power adapter from the laptop.
3. Remove the battery from the laptop.
4. Press and hold the power button on your laptop for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Release the power button.
6. Reinsert the battery back into your laptop.
7. Reconnect the power adapter to your laptop.
8. Turn on your laptop.

Performing a hard/power reset can help reset the charging circuitry and recalibrate the battery, which may resolve any issues causing the battery to shut down prematurely.

If the issue persists, you may need to consider other troubleshooting steps or seek assistance from a professional. It’s also worth checking if your laptop’s battery is still under warranty, as you may be eligible for a replacement if it’s found to be faulty.

Update Drivers and BIOS

To resolve the issue of a laptop battery showing 100% but shutting down when unplugged, it is recommended to update the drivers and BIOS. These updates can often fix compatibility issues and improve battery performance. Here’s how to do it:

1. Update drivers:
– Go to the manufacturer’s website (e.g., HP, Asus) and navigate to the support or drivers section.
– Enter your laptop model (e.g., HP EliteBook, Asus Zephyrus) and locate the latest driver updates for your operating system.
– Download and install the drivers, following the on-screen instructions.
– Restart your laptop to apply the changes.

2. Update BIOS:
– Visit the manufacturer’s website and find the BIOS updates for your specific laptop model.
– Download the latest BIOS version and carefully read the instructions provided.
– Ensure your laptop is connected to a power source throughout the BIOS update process.
– Run the BIOS update software and follow the prompts.
– Once completed, restart your laptop.

After updating the drivers and BIOS, check if the battery issue is resolved. If the problem persists, consider contacting the manufacturer’s support or a professional technician for further assistance. Remember to always use genuine and reliable sources when updating drivers and BIOS to avoid any potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

When my laptop battery is at 100% charge but I still use it plugged in am I just basically using direct power?

When your laptop battery is fully charged at 100% and you continue to use it while plugged in, you are essentially using direct power.

Can a bad battery cause a laptop to shut down?

Yes, a bad battery can cause a laptop to shut down unexpectedly.

Why is my battery showing 100 but not working?

Your battery may be showing 100% but not working because it might need to be recalibrated. Recalibration involves fully charging the battery and then allowing it to discharge completely.

Why does my laptop show battery is 100% charged but dies when unplugged?

When your laptop shows that the battery is 100% charged but dies when unplugged, it is possible that the battery is old or malfunctioning, causing it to not hold a charge properly.

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