Power problems I am working on a Dell Inspiron 8000, Mod#PP01X. The AC adaptor will fail after several minutes of use. I replaced the AC adaptor w/ original Dell PA-1900-05D power adaptor and problem started again with new adaptor after only 15 minutes. Complete power failure and system shuts down.

I think you need to replace or check your battery as soon as possible. your battery is not charging to its full level. better change it . i think this will solve it.

Possible Memory issue . Pls try to remove your memory .. if that doesnt work check fan for issues.

Cheers

Your power supply connection at the mobo is shutting pc down because of a overload.Either heat related or processor damage has occurred, or both.Replace the processor to check for initial solution.Monitor system fans and any obstruction that could prevent cooling through the vents.Fan "on" when PC is turned on is 2nd in steps to fixing this.3rd.Virus can instruct and corrupt operating system into shutting down.Memory is unlikely here.Keep me posted and updated.................................. :)

Using a multimeter you can test the output of the AC adapter. I usually use a paper clip in my multimeter probe can't fit into the center of the AC adapter plug. The output voltage will be written on the AC adapter and will probably be something like 12 or 16 Volts DC. It can and will fluctuate within +/- .5V and that's OK. While you are testing it shake the AC adapter around and wiggle the cable to test for any breaks or faults. If the AC adapter tests OK then turn your attention to the notebook.

Test the notebook with the AC adapter only by removing the battery. If this works then you should suspect your battery as the culprit. A bad battery can cause havoc with a notebook even if the AC adapter is OK. If the same problems happen without the battery then your problem is most likely motherboard based. I would make sure to remove as many components as possible like the DVD drive, extra RAM, USB devices, add in card, to eliminate them as the source of the problem and then test the machine is this minimum state. I would also test the system fully with the diagnostics that are on the drivers CD that came with your system by booting to the drivers CD. Even if the system tests OK in the diagnostics it doesn't mean your system is OK though. A replacement motherboard can usually be found on eBay or purchased from Dell directly if your system is no longer under warranty.

I would suggest to check the cooling fans inside the PC. If the microprocessor fan is not working properly that will cause overheating and the system will shutdown to avoid further damage.

Have you tried a new battery?
Thanks,
Lee