Dell Charger Question

[abubolt]

My charger for my dell laptop got busted. The wires that connects to the plug to the laptop got pulled thus breaking the soldered connection.
Tried fixing it but now my laptop only works while plugged in and does not charge.

Is it true that Dell laptops and chargers only work with each other.
This symptom is probably due to the fact that my charger isn't now being recognised as a Dell charger anymore.
I searched around and it seems that they make proprietary chargers with a chip installed.
So I'm thinking my chip is fried.
Does this mean I can't use any other charger which has the same wattage and voltage as a replacement?

Also does any one know where exactly the chip is installed (transformer or that round circular bulge close to the plug).

TIA

 

[SouthBit]

I've charged some Dells with a 'generic' charger before. Interesting.

 

[Venomous]

I've sold a few generic chargers made according to the manufacturers specs for the model of laptop. Never use a universal charger coz accidents can happen & you can end up frying your laptop

 

[ponder]

http://www.laptop-junction.com/toast/content/dell-ac-power-adapter-not-recognized
http://www.laptop-junction.com/toast/content/dell-ac-power-adapter-id-chip-died
http://www.laptop-junction.com/toast/content/inside-dell-ac-power-adapter-mystery-revealed

Did you makes sure all 3 wires were connected again? Follow the first link for a possible fix if you did not fry the id chip.
Removing a working id chip from the brick and soldering it to the inside of the laptop would allow you to use any generic psu.

 

[abubolt]

To be honest, I actually used insulation tape and twisting of wires to make the connection as I didn't have a soldering iron at hand.
Just my way of diagnosing a problem before I make permanent changes.
Was wondering why there was three wires there is only two prongs from the transformer.
Thanks for the responses.

Will do a proper job once I get home.