NEC Ready 440T notebook about 1998 issue (bought new).

Running XP Pro

Note this no start on battery is about  2 year old problem. Tried with the
original system of W-98 by NEC. Tried with Win 98 OS. Runs best with XP Pro
but it takes a larger than stock HD (4 GB) to install and run W2000 or Win
XP Pro.

The notebook will not start under battery power.  MUST use 120 VAC adapter
to start up. After started it will restart and run on battery only.

This is a real pain in the backside when on the travel route.

Can anyone offer any clues as to why this NEC notebook will not start up on
battery ONLY?

Memory is 192 MB

40 GB HD

All else remains as stock.

Thanks in advance

JVC