With a laptop that old it's more likely that the jack ("outlet") in the laptop has gone bad than that the charger itself is bad, especially if it sometimes charges and other times doesn't. The easiest way to test this would be to try a different charger as you mentioned; maybe see if you have any local computer shops that might have a proper charger you can test at the store (non-chain shops are probably your best bet, places like Best Buy probably won't let you do this).
If you do manage to narrow it down to being the jack, it's actually almost always a very cheap fix assuming you do it yourself or know someone who can solder. Replacement power jacks normally only cost a few bucks (best bet is to look online), and it's just a few pins to desolder then resolder.
Last edited by MaslowK; 11th-May-2014 at 06:54.
"I think that the problem with this video is it is highly derivative of many popular bands within the genre. Although when viewed on its own merits, it does have a deeper groove. However what it has in groove, it lacks in originality. One can't help but be reminded of such bands as Pearl Jam, White Zombie, Suicidal Tendencies and other bands that bear the mantle of so called "Alternative Rock". One is even reminded of Lorie Anderson when she wore curlers. Hehehmhm! This video speaks less to the heart and more to the sphincter. In closing, I think Korn would do well to learn more from -"