just curious if the mba screen problem has been fixed?

[NC MacGuy]

Having chased rf birdies, ground loop problems and feedback issues for over 30 years, I think it's interference between new graphics, MBA chassis and display input. Could even be P.S., fan, Airport, light sensor, or iSight that is feeding harmonics to display input. I seriously don't think it's the display on it's own. Or for that matter, any one piece. Just my cent and a half (not quite worth 2.)

 

[The Toddfather]

In my case, my MBA has been at Apple Support for over a week. They changed the screen, they changed the Logic Board but the Problem still exists. Apple Support told me that there are a couple of people with this problem and they sent the MBA to engineering for further Analysis.

I congratulate everyone with a MBA with a working Screen. If you are tired of people bitching about this problem I would suggest a new Thread called:
"I am freakishly good-looking and so is my Screen"

For the ones who just can't see the lines while others can, I suggest:
"My eyes are going bad, and I'm loving it!"

Either way, this is a great forum. I am happy that people with the same problems have a platform to voice their concerns and keep each other updated.

Wish you all a Merry Christmas

You're missing the point, having only one side represented (i.e. ALL MBA's have lines) as has been suggested in previous posts leaves readers with the impression that all rev2 MBA's are bad. There have been several posts that lead the poster to believe just that. I'm not debating that there is an issue, just that not all MBA's have this issue.

I hope anyone that has an issue gets a fix ASAP, but being bitter to those who don't have an issue, or to stop anyone from saying their MBA's don't have an issue is childish.

 

[Kalmia]

Having chased rf birdies, ground loop problems and feedback issues for over 30 years, I think it's interference between new graphics, MBA chassis and display input. Could even be P.S., fan, Airport, light sensor, or iSight that is feeding harmonics to display input. I seriously don't think it's the display on it's own. Or for that matter, any one piece. Just my cent and a half (not quite worth 2.)

I've heard this theory proposed a couple of times, and so far it's the one that's made the most sense to me. Since the internal wiring of the rev. B is different from the rev. A, it's not a stretch to assume that somewhere there's unforeseen interference leaking into the display that wasn't present (at least not to the same extent) on the rev. A model.

The poster whose good rev. A display was replaced and developed lines afterward may narrow it down a bit, as that model exhibits the same issue with the old graphics. So I tend to assume that it's contained within the display unit itself, but perhaps someone more knowledgeable in this realm than I can shed some light.

 

[davnee]

Just received my repaired Air this morning with replaced screen. Lines are still apparent, though not as strikingly visible as last time, but eye strain kicked in fairly quick even with the dimmer lines. I took it to the Apple Store just for the hell of it, and the Genius there immediately saw the lines. We checked the display model on the floor - also lines and at about the same intensity of my new screen.

He told me it was a screen matrix issue. I don't know what that really means, but that's what he said. He took the computer in the back and said there were no lines on the external monitor. He was quite shocked that applecare had attempted to repair my computer rather than just send me a new one. He said I could ask for a replacement, but he was not optimistic that it would come back without lines. He implied that this was part and parcel of the particular backlight technology interacting with the lcd crystals used on the Airs, which is different from the technology on the macbooks and the pros. His theory was that the eye strain was a result of my subconscious focus on the lines, which may vary in intensity from screen to screen but that are probably on all airs, and since I have excellent vision and now an awareness of them, I will probably always see them.

Long story short, I'll be returning my computer and asking for a refund. I really wanted the portability of an air, but this is intolerable, especially when the price tag is $2,500. So macbook here I come.

 

[Blue Velvet]

You're missing the point

No, you're missing the point. I've already closed two threads about this issue, because people were trolling them saying the problem didn't exist at all. Well, clearly it does for some.

This thread is not about giving a balanced picture, it's for those who wish to discuss the issue in detail. If you're happy with your MacBook Air, then that's great... but that is not what this thread is about.

 

[Ironic]

You're missing the point, having only one side represented (i.e. ALL MBA's have lines) as has been suggested in previous posts leaves readers with the impression that all rev2 MBA's are bad. There have been several posts that lead the poster to believe just that. I'm not debating that there is an issue, just that not all MBA's have this issue.

I hope anyone that has an issue gets a fix ASAP, but being bitter to those who don't have an issue, or to stop anyone from saying their MBA's don't have an issue is childish.

I have to agree, Seems like many here are saying all MBA have lines and they don't Period. I hope the issue gets fixed with a software update, and many here are telling anyone who will listen not to buy!!

My Apple store has ones on display that are line free.

 

[The Toddfather]

No, you're missing the point. I've already closed two threads about this issue, because people were trolling them saying the problem didn't exist at all. Well, clearly it does for some.

This thread is not about giving a balanced picture, it's for those who wish to discuss the issue in detail. If you're happy with your MacBook Air, then that's great... but that is not what this thread is about.

So your not worried that several posters thought that all MBA's had this issue because you don't want anyone say anything positive? I thought this was a discussion thread?

 

[justit]

but this is intolerable, especially when the price tag is $2,500. So macbook here I come.

I agree. Today from the A-Store I got the rolling-eyes-whatever-man from the manager with a "Well they're just built that way." So that makes it a total of 3 for me: 2 Week 45s and a week 46 with bad lines. He was even hinting to me that this last return would be my final return. Wuh?
Part of the problem is that the store is very brightly lit and that the lines are more pronounced in low lighting with full screen brightness. So the employees don't see it as an obvious problem.

 

[McGilli]

So your not worried that several posters thought that all MBA's had this issue because you don't want anyone say anything positive? I thought this was a discussion thread?

I have to agree....

If you REALLY have a problem with your apple product - then post it on the Apple forums - which is a SUPPORT forum.

Last I checked - THIS IS A DISCUSSION FORUM - so anyone is welcome to join in and post....

If it weren't for the other positive posts in a negative thread I would think I am the only person in the world who doesn't have lines on their machine.

As I have stated earlier - I agree the issue is real - but considering the poll on this forum grabbed maybe 25 people having the issue - I don't think it is a HUGE issue. (but huge for the individual who gets a bum machine)

 

[Blue Velvet]

So your not worried that several posters thought that all MBA's had this issue because you don't want anyone say anything positive? I thought this was a discussion thread?

As I said, earlier threads on this issue were closed down because they soon devolved into arguments on whether this problem actually existed which then spilled over into hostility... Passions are strong. Clearly, the problem exists for some so let them discuss it. This is the only way to keep some peace around here.

If you would like to tell other forum members about your MBA which is fine and all the other MBAs which are fine, then I suggest you create another thread to do so and I will also do my bit to keep it clear of any trouble, if any problems arise...

Edit: And this thread has now been created

 

[tubbymac]

Long story short, I'll be returning my computer and asking for a refund. I really wanted the portability of an air, but this is intolerable, especially when the price tag is $2,500. So macbook here I come.

I hope you don't mean Macbook as in 13 inch Macbook. I have the aluminum one and the reason I'm considering a MBA is because the screen on the Macbook is terrible. If you're talking about the MBP well then you lose all the portability that an MBA gives you since it's so heavy.

If you don't like the MBA screen you'll hate the Macbook 13 screen worse, trust me on that.

 

[Sdevante]

*sigh*... was so excited to place an order for my first Mac tonight, then discovered all the stuff about defective displays. Now I'm not so sure I want to order soon b/c I don't want to get stuck exchanging computers and floating a lot of money on my credit card.

Has anyone that has experienced this problem purchased through the online store? Or has it been limited to certain geographical areas?

 

[HLdan]

I hope you don't mean Macbook as in 13 inch Macbook. I have the aluminum one and the reason I'm considering a MBA is because the screen on the Macbook is terrible. If you're talking about the MBP well then you lose all the portability that an MBA gives you since it's so heavy.

If you don't like the MBA screen you'll hate the Macbook 13 screen worse, trust me on that.

Agreed, the reason a lot of MBA's are being sold is because (not only due to the thin factor) the Macbook ALU's screen is a black level/contrast washout nightmare.

Once you see the Macbook screen, you will forgive the lines on the MBA screen with pleasure. I returned my Macbook ALU because I just couldn't bare looking at such washed out images and people on MR are creating dozens of color profiles that do absolutely NOTHING to help the lack of contrast.

 

[justit]

Ayou will forgive the lines on the MBA.

At this price, I'm not in a forgiving mood They know how to make great screens (rev A) but someone at tried to fix something that wasn't broken. Yes the internals are vastly different in rev B, but why can't the QC department spot this before it leaves the door?

 

[h1d]

So your not worried that several posters thought that all MBA's had this issue because you don't want anyone say anything positive? I thought this was a discussion thread?

Still missing the point after 30th page about this? We know, you have the good ones. If the product is good, I'm sure other people will add the fact themselves and you're worried that not many are adding, in fact, owners of good product don't care to post, so I suggest you stop worrying on behalf of Apple, because it's not adding anything to the thread. Just because 30 people said they have bad product doesn't mean, 3 people have to say they have the good one 10 times each, just so you feel good. Is it so hard to leave the thread alone for the people that care?

I went to a local store again (not Apple's) and they again go 'no stock, sorry, no display for rev B'. Wonder what Apple is afraid of... On what occasion has an Apple's newest model not get displayed at anywhere I go for months?

 

[jtmav]

follow up post purchase

As a follow up I bought a MBA 1.8/128ssd yesterday at the local Apple store. After a few hours of using it I cannot find any defects with the screen yet. I have tried a variety of different desktop backgrounds, solid colors etc. So far so good. Just thought I would let anyone know who may be on the fence. Great machine, used the remote disc with my iMac and worked flawlessly.

JTMav

 

[immaculate]

where are you?

As a follow up I bought a MBA 1.8/128ssd yesterday at the local Apple store. After a few hours of using it I cannot find any defects with the screen yet. I have tried a variety of different desktop backgrounds, solid colors etc. So far so good. Just thought I would let anyone know who may be on the fence. Great machine, used the remote disc with my iMac and worked flawlessly.

JTMav

JTMav - that's good to hear, but could you tell us where you are? Some people over at the Apple Discussions are speculating that the problem is largely confined to non-US buyers.

Just wondering too whether there's any possible connection between the screen problem and the choice of keyboard (US English vs any other language). Just an idea.

PS I'm in Switzerland and definitely not buying till I hear that the problem is solved.

 

[justit]

I have tried a variety of different desktop backgrounds, solid colors etc. So far so good.

The lines differ in intensity as I've gone through 3 machines. To make it more pronounced go to Preferences->Display->Color->Calibrate... ->disable the Expert Mode and goto white point at D50. Using a white solid background, if you still do not see any lines giving it a yellow/tan pattern then you're in luck.

 

[jtmav]

JTMav - that's good to hear, but could you tell us where you are? Some people over at the Apple Discussions are speculating that the problem is largely confined to non-US buyers.

Just wondering too whether there's any possible connection between the screen problem and the choice of keyboard (US English vs any other language). Just an idea.

PS I'm in Switzerland and definitely not buying till I hear that the problem is solved.

I am in the Greater Boston area in the US

 

[davnee]

could you tell us where you are? Some people over at the Apple Discussions are speculating that the problem is largely confined to non-US buyers.

American buyer here with lines. In the midwest. And had my screen replaced at Apple's repair facility in Memphis - came back once again with lines. Also saw lines on the display model at my local Apple store. So that makes two machines and three screens that I have personally seen affected. Proof enough for me that I should stop wasting my time and energy trying to hit the jackpot of a good machine (personally I'm skeptical that any air is totally line free, some are probably just extremely faint) and just move on.

 

[ichigo11]

Proof enough for me that I should stop wasting my time and energy trying to hit the jackpot of a good machine (personally I'm skeptical that any air is totally line free, some are probably just extremely faint) and just move on.

Agreed. My MBA was shipped to me from Philadelphia week 47 with lines. I also saw lines at the Apple store in CT, which lead me to believe this is a wide spread problem.

I was thinking about exchanging mine but none I read from the forum got a line free MBA after the exchange.
I called the Apple Care and they said unless the lines are really noticeable, it's within spec and I have to take it to an Apple store and let them determine if it qualify to be fixed or exchanged.

So I hope those with lines will keep this thread alive and hopefully Apple will provide a fix for this problem.

 

[justit]

it's within spec

I've heard that PR line from previous macs but to apply to the new MBA's screen; that's a new one. If they dare say that, then it's worth returning it rather than living with it hoping it gets fixed someday, which I was actually considering doing until now.

 

[davnee]

If you don't like the MBA screen you'll hate the Macbook 13 screen worse, trust me on that.

It isn't just a matter of not liking the screen on the air (though it is preposterous to be expected to live with a visibly muddied screen at $2,500), but that the screen makes me physically ill.

And I'm no prima donna. I've have and have had multiple Apple desktops and laptops and never before had the slightest complaint. Nor have I ever once before experienced eye strain looking at a computer screen, and I spend hours every day in front of one.

I'll more than happily live with a screen that does not have the best possible contrast if it will allow me to actually do my work without becoming ill. Besides, I spent twenty minutes scrutinizing the new macbook screen at the Apple Store on Friday and it sure as heck looked better than the crap lined screen of the air that was on display across the way. At least whites were white on the macbook and not grey.

 

[NC MacGuy]

It isn't just a matter of not liking the screen on the air (though it is preposterous to be expected to live with a visibly muddied screen at $2,500), but that the screen makes me physically ill.

And I'm no prima donna. I've have and have had multiple Apple desktops and laptops and never before had the slightest complaint. Nor have I ever once before experienced eye strain looking at a computer screen, and I spend hours every day in front of one.

I'll more than happily live with a screen that does not have the best possible contrast if it will allow me to actually do my work without becoming ill. Besides, I spent twenty minutes scrutinizing the new macbook screen at the Apple Store on Friday and it sure as heck looked better than the crap lined screen of the air that was on display across the way. At least whites were white on the macbook and not grey.

Not to get off topic but in reply, I had a MB. It's not just the whites and blacks, it's an issue of extremely narrow viewing angle. Not side to side, up and down. Backlight evenness is atrocious too. Sorry you had a bad Air but they're not all like that. I still stand behind my theory that it's not the displays but interference between displays and other components.

That's why changing a display alone won't fix the lines.

 

[queshy]

The MacBook Air screens are the best notebook screens Apple makes in terms of minimizing the # of defects...