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With these Nitro back DC_IN power powers you need to make sure that when you plug the adapter into the laptop the adapters barrel plug is inserted fully until you hear a click, as it could be that you are only inserting the barrel adapter plug half way into the DC_In port, so check tht first.

You need to plug the adapters barrel plug into the laptop like below

The back DC_In ports negative springy pins have been pushed in and the adapters barrel pug is loose, the only way to fix this is to get a sharp tool to bend those outside port pins inwards so that it grabs the adapters barrel plug, also, it could be that those negative pins have broken off and the DC_In port needs replacing. I suggest that you take your laptop to an experienced tech in your area. If you are in London or near there, I suggest that you send your laptop to one of the best techs around called Sorin Electronics (this is his You Tube channel, so look there) and send your laptop to him, as he will fix this issue or anything else that is wrong with your AN16-41 Nitro model laptop. Good luck and hope this helps you out.

Nitro AN16-41 DC_In port that could be damaged and needs replacing,

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Hello @SJA265,

It sounds incredibly frustrating to have your progression raids interrupted by a hardware issue, especially when you've invested in upgrades like that Samsung Evo.

For the Acer Nitro 16 (AN16-41), the "loose" feeling is often caused by a damaged internal retention clip in the DC jack that is supposed to "click" the charger into place.

1. Temporary "No-Cost" Workarounds.

Since a replacement is currently outside your budget, you can try these stability fixes to keep you in the raid:

The "Support Loop" (Strain Relief): Instead of letting the heavy 330W cable pull straight down, create a small loop with the cable and use a Velcro tie or elastic band to secure it to the laptop's hinge or a nearby desk lamp.

This transfers the weight of the "brick" away from the delicate port.

Check for Internal Debris: Use a wooden toothpick or a can of compressed air to gently clear the port.

Even a tiny amount of compressed lint can prevent the "barrel" from seating deeply enough to engage the lock.

Wedge Method: Some users find that a tiny sliver of electrical tape on the outside of the charger’s metal barrel can create just enough friction to keep it snug.

Do not put anything inside the hole or on the center pin.

1. Low-Cost Repair Path.

If the port is physically broken, "workarounds" will eventually fail. You don't necessarily need a whole new £100+ charger; you likely just need a new DC Jack.

The Part: For your model, the internal charging port (DC Jack) is often a modular cable that plugs into the motherboard, meaning no soldering is required.

Labour: If you have a friend who is comfortable opening electronics (since you've already swapped an SSD), this is a 15-minute "plug and play" swap once the back cover is off.

1. Charger Specifications for Future Reference.

If you do eventually need a charger, ensure it matches these exact specs to avoid damaging your Nitro 16:

Power: 330W (19.5V, 16.9A).

Tip Size: 5.5mm x 1.7mm (This is the standard Acer "Purple/Blue" tip size).

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Hi SJA265,

For a immediate workaround so you don't wipe your raid, the most effective "quick fix" is to secure the cable with a physical strain relief to prevent it from moving or falling out while you play.

Immediate "Raid-Ready" Workaround
If the port feels loose, any movement of the laptop or the weight of the heavy 230W power brick's cable can cause it to slip.
Tape/Velcro Strain Relief: Use electrical tape or a Velcro strap to secure the charger cable to the side or back of the laptop chassis. Give the cable a small amount of "slack" (a loop) before taping it down, so any tugs pull on the tape rather than the loose internal pin.

Elevate the Cable: Ensure the power brick is on the same level as your laptop (e.g., on the desk) rather than hanging off the edge. This removes the "weight" factor you mentioned.
Adjust Windows Power Settings: To prevent the "freezing" when it detaches, change your Power Plan to "Best Performance" even on battery. This may reduce the sudden stutter caused by the CPU/GPU downclocking when it loses AC power.

Why it's Loose: The "Knuckle" Issue
The Acer Nitro series often uses a barrel jack where internal metal "fingers" (contacts) grip the charger tip.
Straightened Grips: Over time, these metal fingers can straighten out, losing their "click" and grip.
Broken Retention Clip: There is a small metal clip inside the port designed to catch a ridge on your charger. If this clip is mangled, the charger will fall out with even a slight touch.

Long-Term Solutions
Since you're on a newer Acer Nitro 16 (AN16-41), it's likely still under warranty.
Warranty Check: Visit the Acer Support Portal to check your status. If it's a manufacturer defect, they may replace the charging daughterboard or the cable for free.
Port Repair: For many Nitro models, the DC jack is a "plug and play" cable that doesn't require soldering, but it does require opening the chassis.
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