Does not run Window when charger is plugged in, only when unplugged

Question

After a windows 11 update my laptop runs a diagnostic and cant boot the system when the charger is plugged in, but it boots up normally when the charger isn't plugged in. It IS the original charger for the laptop

Answer 1

Hi Jacob Sanchez,

I can see that Q&A Assist has already suggested a few initial checks. To help move things forward, I’d like to add the steps below to further narrow down what may be preventing the device from starting when the charger is connected:

Step 1: Turn off Fast Startup and test again

Once the device is running on battery, open Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do, then select Change settings that are currently unavailable and turn off Fast Startup. Save the change, shut the device down completely, reconnect the charger, and try starting it again. This ensures the system performs a full hardware check instead of loading a partial startup state.

Step 2: Reinstall the battery and AC power drivers

While booted on battery, open Device Manager and expand Batteries. Uninstall Microsoft ACPI‑Compliant Control Method Battery and Microsoft AC Adapter (if listed). Restart the device so Windows can reinstall these drivers automatically. After the restart, shut the device down, connect the charger, and test startup again. This refreshes how Windows detects and manages external power.

Step 3: Check firmware settings

If the issue continues, enter the BIOS/UEFI settings and load the default configuration. If a firmware or BIOS update is available for your device model, installing it can help ensure proper compatibility with recent system changes.

If the device still does not start when the charger is connected, especially if this happens before Windows fully loads, it may indicate a hardware‑level power or charging component that needs further inspection. In that case, contacting the device manufacturer or service support would be the best next step.

Please let me know how it goes after trying these steps, or if you notice any changes. I’m happy to help continue troubleshooting.

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Answer 2

Run through these hardware checks first, since the issue only occurs when the charger is connected:

1. Inspect and reset the power supply
   • Disconnect the charger from the laptop.
   • Unplug the power cable from the wall and disconnect any USB accessories from the power supply (if present).
   • Wait at least 10 seconds so the power supply can reset.
   • Clean the connector with a soft, dry, lint‑free cloth and check for visible damage to the connector, cable, and port.
   • Plug the charger back into the wall and then into the laptop and test booting again.
2. Try reversing the connector (if using a Surface‑style magnetic connector)
   • Remove the charging connector, flip it 180 degrees, and plug it back in securely.
   • Check whether the laptop now boots normally with the charger connected.
3. Test a different power source
   • Plug the charger into a different wall outlet, surge protector, or power strip.
   • Then try to boot with the charger connected.
4. Check the charger/battery behavior
   • If the device is a Surface and the LED on the power connector is off, blinking, or flashing, follow the steps above to reset and test the power supply.
   • If the LED is solid but the device still misbehaves when plugged in, follow the battery troubleshooting steps: try another compatible power supply if available, disconnect high‑power accessories, and verify the power supply meets the charging requirements for the device model.
5. Try another compatible charger if possible
   • If another original or compatible power supply (or USB‑C PD charger, if supported) works normally, the original charger is likely faulty and should be replaced via a service order.
   • If the problem persists with multiple chargers, the issue is likely with the device’s power/battery hardware and it should be serviced.

If after these steps the laptop still cannot boot when the charger is connected but boots normally on battery, the power circuitry or battery subsystem likely needs professional service.

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References:

• What to do if your Surface power supply or charger doesn’t work
• Surface battery won’t charge or Surface won’t run on battery
• User experience principles for battery charging