No power for docking station

[Wurtzly42]

Hello HP Community!
I am seeking advice on compatible power supplies for my docking station.
There is an old HP laptop, which still serves a designated purpose. The only problem with it is the physical placement, with all the cables jutting out on the sides. A docking station seemed to be the simplest solution.
So I have bought a used one, which is a A7E32AA (HP model number) / HSTNN-I11X (regulatory number), and it requires 90W power. The webshop which offered this didn't have its original power supply, but offered a third party replacement, which turned out to be a cheapo Pantona 2564J "Premium adapter" (90W) thing.
This power supply works when connected directly to the laptop itself. But it won't power the docking station when it is plugged into that. There is supposed to be an LED above the power connector which I have never seen light up, and neither does it charge the docked laptop through it. Despite this, some ports of the docking station work without power (VGA, Ethernet, audio). Other ports don't, most annoyingly the USB ones. (By the way, this Pantona thing has a pretty shoddy build quality compared to the laptop's original 65W PSU, I'm starting to think it can't produce its stated output.)
I have already asked about this on generic IT forums for a while, and there were a lot of false reasoning and recommendations. At the moment I am looking at H6Y90AA (regulatory number) PSUs, but I want to be sure before I buy another thing.
-Is that an appropriate type of PSU for this docking station? (If not, what is?)
-What do the # variations mean, e.g. H6Y90AA#ABB, H6Y90AA#ABA? (Is there a comprehensive guide on regulatory numbers?)
-Or the docking station itself is faulty?

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @Wurtzly42 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Yes, the H6Y90AA is a compatible 90W power adapter for your HP A7E32AA docking station. The #ABA, #ABB suffixes indicate regional variants (e.g., plug type, regulatory labeling), not electrical differences. If the LED never lights up and USB ports remain inactive, the docking station may be faulty—but a genuine HP adapter should be tested first.

You're absolutely right to be cautious—third-party adapters often fail to deliver consistent voltage or amperage, especially under load. The A7E32AA dock is designed to work only with HP-certified 90W adapters that meet its power delivery and handshake requirements. Let’s break this down clearly:

1. Confirmed compatible power adapter

• Model: H6Y90AA (HP 90W Smart AC Adapter)
• Compatibility: Fully supports the A7E32AA docking station and older HP EliteBook/ProBook laptops.
• Connector type: Standard 7.4mm barrel plug.
• Voltage/Amperage: 19.5V, 4.62A

You can find it listed on HP’s official accessories page:
HP 90W Smart AC Adapter – H6Y90AA

 

2. Understanding #ABA, #ABB suffixes

These suffixes denote regional packaging and compliance:

• #ABA – North America (US plug, FCC labeling)
• #ABB – Europe (EU plug, CE labeling)
• #ACJ – Japan
• #UUF – India

Electrically, they’re identical. You can safely use any variant as long as the plug fits your wall socket or you use a travel adapter.

 

3. Diagnosing the docking station

If the LED above the power jack never lights up:

• The dock is not receiving power or not recognizing the adapter.
• USB ports and laptop charging require full power handshake—VGA and Ethernet may work passively.
• Try the H6Y90AA adapter first. If the LED still doesn’t light up:
  • Disconnect everything.
  • Plug in only the adapter and check for LED.
  • If still dead, the dock may have a faulty power circuit.

 

4. Additional tips

• Avoid using adapters labeled “replacement” or “compatible” unless HP-branded.
• If sourcing used HP adapters, verify the regulatory number and inspect the barrel connector for wear.
• You can also check the dock’s power input using a multimeter if you’re comfortable doing so.

Let me know once you’ve tested with a genuine H6Y90AA—if the dock still doesn’t respond, I’ll help you explore next steps like internal fuse checks or alternate dock models.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[Wurtzly42]

@Hawks_Eye

The power supply has not been ordered yet. It took a back seat to other plans.

But that is reassuring information. Thank you for the detailed reply!

[Hawks_Eye]

You're very welcome @Wurtzly42 —and totally understandable that priorities shift. 

When you're ready to revisit it, feel free to reach out if you'd like help confirming the correct wattage or compatibility for the docking station model. 

In the meantime, I’m glad the info gave you some peace of mind.

Regards,

Hawks_Eye

[Wurtzly42]

Last time, the cable situation could be somewhat relieved by other means.

But I was still curious if the docking station is functional or not.

Today, the power supply has arrived. It was only marked by the regulatory number in the webshop, but turned out to be an original HP part.

I am glad to report, that the docking station turned out to be perfectly functional!

[Hawks_Eye]

Thanks for the update @Wurtzly42 

That’s fantastic news—thank you for the update! I’m really glad the original HP adapter brought the docking station to life. It’s always satisfying when the right part resolves the issue cleanly, especially after all the uncertainty with third-party gear.

If you ever need help optimizing your dock setup, managing connected displays, or streamlining cable routing, I’ll be here to assist. Wishing you smooth sailing with your setup from here on out.

Thanks again for your confirmation, and we wish you an amazing day ahead! 😊

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye