There's some detection system to disallow non-maker chargers and batteries so if you didn't get a Dell replacement you may see this. There are also times that the machine needs repair so let's hope this is a Dell supplied battery since they'll swap it out.
-> Yes, it's well discussed and can infuriate those that encounter it for the first time. Why did the makers do this? Research the BATTERY FIRES that happened a few years ago.
As to the programs that won't close on shutdown, it's a SAD problem with Microsoft, the industry and more that accepted this "almost works most of the time." I see it on many many systems and it makes you wonder if they'll ever get it right.
Bob
I purchased a new battery for my Inspiron 1545 after the original died. The battery works great, but recently I keep receiving an error message when plugging in: "AC Power Adaptor type cannot be recognized and battery will not charge..." Every now and then the battery goes ahead and charges, I think it is only if I have turned the computer completely off, unplugged the power and then plugged it back in before turning computer back on. However, for the past week I have not been able to get computer to power down completely. Everything appears to be off but the power indicator light remains lit. When shutting down, I briefly see the warning page that background programs are still trying to close, but it just flickers up and then disappears before I can force shutdown. My battery is completely depleted at this point and I can't get it to charge, so my only option is to stay plugged in at all times. Yet I know the battery is not the issue. Any help closing down the background programs, or better yet, figuring out why my adapter isn't recognized to begin with? Thanks!

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