When I play movies while connecting my mid 2010 macbook pro to my projector using a mini display to VGA. Since my projector does not have an audio output I also run an aux cable splitting to my beats by dre beatbox and a speaker system. I stream the movies from my time capsule and play them through my mbp. The problem is when I am playing these videos I can pick up a static/apparent am radio station coming through my speakers. I cannot figure out what could be causing the problem but i believe that it has something to do with my macbook even though I can't figure it out. I have used different mbp's and this issue does not occur. This issue also occurs only when I am using the projector setup as well. I have tried plugging in headphones as well as playing the audio out of my speakers and this issue did not occur. I have also tried playing the media with both VLC and quicktime and the radio still plays. Since the events have started, I have ran a clean install of mountain lion and the problem is still there. I have no idea what could be causing the issue. any help is greatly appreciated.
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
MacBook Pro picking up what appears to be an AM radio station? Help needed
- Thread starter scottsummer21
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
I can't help you solve it but I can assure you that this is caused by hardware and it could not be an issue. I have a friend who had 2 studio audio monitors that picked up a radio station when they were turned on. It was a long time ago so I can't remember if it was an issue or a "feature".
Your audio cable is most likely acting as a radio antenna. Had this problem years ago with poorly shielded equipment. Used to pickup the local taxi firm.
Try a different cable.
Ding Ding Ding!!
This is almost certainly The Answer.. a 'cheap cable' and an Unbalanced Audio Signal (which any MBP output will be) makes for a reasonably good possibility of unwanted RF (Radio Frequencies) being intercepted..
Changing, or possibly Re-routing the cables, may well fix it!!
Actually not a joke, but could be one valid suggestion. Wrap the cable end-to-end with foil, and ground that foil (on one end only!)
(might not really be practical with aluminum foil, but the concept to have the entire cable shielded is a useful one that WILL help eliminate signal interference.)