I've been trying to do some internet research but I'm not sure what keywords to use. I read something about a port replicator--do you know what that is? Would that help?
Port replicator = docking station. It's a piece of plastic you set your computer in, plug the cords into the docking station, and the station sends everything to the computer. Mostly it's used to let you easily connect and disconnect your laptop to a monitor and external keyboard.
Google the computer's model, the maker, and the words "port replicator" or "docking station". If the computer's a few years old, your best bet is Ebay. Otherwise check the maker.
re: port replicator
Nope. That's just to give you serial, parallel, and USB ports that you can plug into one of your current ports.
I have exactly the same problem with my laptop. Dog got excited and kicked the cord when it was plugged in. It's not the cord (I've tried multiples). So it is somewhere in the vicinity of where it gets plugged in.
If you are handy with a soldering iron and have a good set of jewelers screwdrivers, you MIGHT be able to fix it yourself. But having taken apart and fixed numerous laptops, it can be a pretty daunting task.