Significance

• Different computer parts such as disk drives, monitors, and video cards have different voltage specifications. The DC controller takes the power from either the battery or the AC adapter and parcels out the right amount of voltage to each component. Without this step, the computer would not be able to function.
  
  

Types

• While a standard device on every notebook, DC controllers are not interchangeable. Virtually every different model of notebook computer has its own type of DC controller. Unlike some notebook parts, they are fixed to the innards of the computer, and not subject to user upgrades.
  
  

Misconceptions

• The controller is not to be confused with the converter. The converter is the box usually located about halfway up the notebook's power cord. This converts the alternating current (AC) that comes from the wall to the DC power the computer requires.