Is something wrong with my 2013 iMac?

[ChitoCrisis]

I just got it in the mail yesterday and I've been using it non-stop (except for sleep and going to work). I think there is something wrong with it. One of the USB ports doesn't seem to work. Not only that but it looks like tiny sparks start appearing as the usb touches the port. I know this is not normal. I should contact Apple and get mine replaced? Can I do this at the store?

Edit: Ok, I think I know what it is. It doesn't appear to be the iMac but the usb cable that came with the bluray drive I bought.

 

[Aameiel]

If you're seeing sparks at the usb port then i would return it asap.

 

[kylepro88]

Yes contact them...that's bad news.

 

[X-Ravin]

Sounds like the solder for the jack short circuited the connections. Would explain a spark and a non functional port.

 

[jg321]

I just got it in the mail yesterday and I've been using it non-stop (except for sleep and going to work). I think there is something wrong with it. One of the USB ports doesn't seem to work. Not only that but it looks like tiny sparks start appearing as the usb touches the port. I know this is not normal. I should contact Apple and get mine replaced? Can I do this at the store?

Edit: Ok, I think I know what it is. It doesn't appear to be the iMac but the usb cable that came with the bluray drive I bought.

Also, while tiny sparks sounds bad, I've seen it before with powered USB devices against the Alu on my MBP. If it doesn't work in any port, and other USB devices work in those ports, I'd agree that it's probably the cable or the downstream device as you say.

 

[MrGimper]

Also, while tiny sparks sounds bad, I've seen it before with powered USB devices against the Alu on my MBP. If it doesn't work in any port, and other USB devices work in those ports, I'd agree that it's probably the cable or the downstream device as you say.

I'd second the sparks from powered USB devices. I have 2 powered USB hubs that spark on the iMac enclosure when I fiddle around to plug them into the iMac.

 

[jg321]

I'd second the sparks from powered USB devices. I have 2 powered USB hubs that spark on the iMac enclosure when I fiddle around to plug them into the iMac.

I believe it's to do with ground looping - in that both the case and the shielding of the USB port are grounded, and when they make contact the small amount of current flowing creates sparks.

I've also seen it with VGA and HDMI cables, and even TV aerials!

 

[fhopper]

Put your tongue on the case and hold a cold water pipe with one hand; now plug.

 

[tug]

Put your tongue on the case and hold a cold water pipe with one hand; now plug.

LOL. that made my morning, cheers for that