VGN-FS Model DC-in Jack Replacement Help

[phynbar]

I have a broken dc-in jack on my VAIO VGN-285M (way out of warranty) and am trying to get advice on getting in replaced.

The issue is that the small circular plastic in the centre of DC-in power socket on the laptop has broken off.

This has left the 2 metal pins too far apart for the power cable to connect to and power the battery.

I know it is only the dc-in that is the issue and nothing more sinister as I've been able to power up and work as normal using a fully charged battery from someone else I know with a VGN-FS model.

The help I'm after is around the level of expertise required to replace the dc-in part and ideally to locate a reputable source that does this kind of repair (Milton Keynes / London area) so as dont need to go through Sony's 35p a min helpline.

The FS series is obviously 4/5 years old but I know the part is reasonably easy to obtain but some sites indicate that no soldering is required but looking at the part for the FS series that doesn't seem likely.

Can anyone offer any help?
Cheers
phynbar

[Blencogo]

Hi phynbar,

I'm afraid the manual is not good enough - I attach it anyway.

I would think this sort of repair would be well within the capabilities of a local PC/TV repairer.

This one offers a full Power Socket Repair - parts, labour, VAT & Warranty - for £69

http://www.techno-mart.co.uk/MILTONKE/PAGE.HTM

[phynbar]

Thanks for this, I managed to get a recommendation for an alternate repair specialist in MK, seems DC ports are actually the mostly commonly repaired item on any laptop.

Service I'm using today is http://www.laptopsolutionsuk.co.uk/ and although they don't have the required part in their large stock they are able to obtain it on next day basis, so should have it back and repaired within 24 hours.

They do a collection service also if anyone out there is looking for a similar repair.

Cost is a little higher (£80 all in) than the link provided 😞 but its based on a recommendation of someone who's used these guys before.

I will post back to confirm the outcome in case anyone out there reading this is in need of the same repair and would value a recommendation.

Cheers
phynbar

[phynbar]

Per above, for anyone tracking this thread, I can confirm the guy I used through laptopsolutionsuk.co.uk is highly recommendable - dc jack replaced and laptop back and fully functioing - 24 hour turnaround. 80 quid.

[Blencogo]

Hi Phynbar,

Thanks for the update.

It is always good to have personal recommendations.