Fix Laptop Battery “Plugged In, Not Charging”

By HP-BATTERY Updated on May 27, 2025

Problem Description

Many laptop users encounter a situation where the battery percentage gets stuck at a certain value (e.g., between 40-60%, commonly 51%) while the display shows “ Not Charging” even when the power is “plugged in”. This usually signals that the battery needs calibration, not a hardware failure.

Cause Analysis

Battery Management System (BMS) Misjudgment:The BMS monitors battery status, including charge level, voltage, and temperature. When it miscalculates the actual battery capacity, it may incorrectly assume the battery is fully charged and stop charging to prevent “ overcharging” often occurring when the battery level is between 40-60%.

12-Step Battery Calibration Method

Preparation

1. Time Allocation: Ensure 30-60 minutes of free time.
2. Data Backup: Save all work and close applications, as the process requires multiple restarts.

Calibration Steps

Step 1: Fully Shut Down the LaptopProperly shut down Windows and ensure the laptop is completely powered off.
Step 2: Disconnect the Power AdapterRemove the AC power adapter to cut external power supply.
Step 3: Remove the Battery (for Removable Batteries Only)

1. Carefully take out the battery, avoiding electrostatic damage.
2. Note: Skip this step for ultrabooks or laptops with non-removable batteries.

Step 4: Reconnect the Power AdapterPlug the AC power adapter back into the laptop.
Step 5: Boot Up and Launch WindowsPower on the laptop and start Windows normally.
Step 6: Uninstall Battery Drivers

1. Open Device Manager:
1. Right-click "This PC" > "Manage" > "Device Manager."
2. Or use the Win+X shortcut and select "Device Manager."
2. Expand the "Batteries" category, right-click each "Microsoft ACPI-Compliant Control Method Battery," and select "Uninstall device." Uninstall all entries if multiple exist.

Step 7: Shut Down AgainClose Windows and power off the laptop completely.
Step 8: Disconnect the Power Adapter AgainRemove the AC power adapter once more.
Step 9: Reinstall the Battery (if Removed Earlier)Insert the battery firmly to ensure a good connection.
Step 10: Reconnect the Power AdapterPlug the AC power adapter back into the laptop.
Step 11: Boot Up and Let Drivers Install AutomaticallyStart Windows; the system will automatically reinstall the battery drivers.
Step 12: Perform 3 Full Charge-Discharge Cycles

1. Discharge: Disconnect the power adapter, use the battery until the laptop shuts down automatically.
1. Tip: Close all apps and set power settings to "High Performance" to speed up discharge.
2. Charge: Connect the power adapter and charge continuously to 100% without interruption.
3. Repeat: Complete the above discharge-charge process three times.

Critical Notes

1. Cool the Battery: Ensure the battery cools to room temperature between charges. High heat accelerates lithium-ion battery aging and reduces capacity.
2. Avoid High-Temperature Environments: Keep the laptop away from direct sunlight or heat sources during calibration.

Additional Tips

1. Daily Maintenance:
1. After calibration, maintain battery levels between 20%-80%.
2. Perform a full charge-discharge cycle monthly to maintain battery health.
2. Brand-Specific Tools:
1. HP: Use HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI for calibration.
2. Lenovo: Use the OKO software or Power Management tool.
3. Asus: Optimize battery life with the Battery Health charging settings.
3. Battery Replacement: If issues persist, the battery may be aged—consider replacing it with an original or high-quality battery.
4. Technical Support: Contact the manufacturer's customer service or a professional technician for further battery health checks if problems remain.

Conclusion

Regular battery calibration is key to maintaining laptop battery life. Proper charge-discharge cycles and daily care can significantly extend battery lifespan. Remember, prevention is better than repair—good usage habits are the best way to preserve battery performance.