As you can see, I'm a newbie here but I'd still really appreciate any help. I've tried searching the web for help with my situation but can't really find anyone else who's been in exactly the same situation as me.
I have a 5 year old Toshiba Satellite L300 laptop. A few months ago, I noticed that the power jack looked like this:
http://dics.voicecontrol.ro/had/images/fixing_that_broken_laptop_power_jack.jpg?w=470&h=353
I also realised that the AC adapter that goes into that hole was breaking to the point of almost snapping. (Sorry if some of the terms I use here are not quite right). I bought a replacement AC adapter (voltage etc. all matched) and all was fine.
However, a few days ago, I was using my laptop, plugged in, and then closed the lid and kept it plugged in while I did something else. I came back, opened it up to carry on with what I was doing and noticed it wasn't charging. I did the obvious (tried a different socket etc.) but it still wouldn't charge. I googled what to do and followed some basic instructions but still couldn't get it to charge. Meanwhile, it's ran out of juice so now it won't switch on.
I am not 100% sure if it's the 5 year old battery that's the problem, or the 3 month old replacement AC adapter. I tried plugging in my old, original (and slightly broken AC adapter) into my laptop very briefly and it started charging. So does that mean the battery is fine and the replacement AC adapter is to blame?
Thanks for any help. I just don't want to fork out for a new battery when it's the AC adapter to blame (and vice versa).