I have an Alienware Sentia notebook, and a while ago the power cord got sensitive, and would suddenly cease to be recognized, then come back. One day, it just stopped, and the battery died before I could turn off the computer, now I have no way of starting it. It doesn't detect the AC adapter, with or without the battery. Is there anything I can do, short of replacing the power jack?

You could charge the battery in another (similar) computer and move it to yours..

Yes, it would be a good idea to have a look at the power system and fix/replace anything that is broken

thanks... I'll probably get around to it eventually, It's an odd-shaped battery, and I don't have any other way to charge it, or I would.

Is it possible that your AC cord has stopped conducting? (Not working anymore). That may account for it no longer being noticed. If you know anyone with a multitester: they could easily find out if the cord has a short (or open).

Thanks, that's a good idea.