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Macbook Pro's DVI port sparking

K

Knolly

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Jul 22, 2007
610
0
Hey there... I always use my MBP with an external monitor when at my desk and when I just tried to plug it in I noticed that it very noticably sparks as it plugs in... My question is:
1. Is this normal?
2. Is this bad?
3. Am I totally about to be at fault for burning down my dorm?
 
I don't think it's supposed to be that way, but I'm not sure since I don't use an external monitor. Perhaps it was just a one time thing, but if it keeps happening, I suggest you take it to the Apple Store. If there's anything wrong with it and your computer is still under warranty, they will fix it free of charge. No harm in letting them take a look then risk burning down your dorm.
 
Let me guess, you don't bother turning off your computer when attaching the external monitor?

It's quite normal, I have observed it quite a few times.
 
This phenomenon happened to my 1-month old MBP this morning as I was fumbling to connect a DVI cable - and it killed the laptop completely. It generated a fairly impressive spark complete with smoke and the smell of ozone. The machine wasn't even turned on at the time. It is now in for repair. The technician said he had not heard of this happening.
 
I haven't had this happen when using an external. I don't turn my MBP off, but I do make sure the monitor is powered down.
 
No problems here, I plug and unplug mine with both devices on all the time. Could it be a cause of static electricity. I know my mbp would spark due to static electricity sometimes when I touch it.
 
is the monitor the dvi cable runs to GROUNDED?

are you using the three prong apple adapter?

if either of these is NO, thats your issue probably. No issues here, ON OFF, whatever, nothing bad. NO SPARKS.
 
No, everything is properly grounded and I have not noticed excessive static electricity around the office. The spark was sufficient to create a small charred area on the DVI connector shell. I also don't have a history of killing my laptops. This is a first.
 
Hi guys, wondering whether anyone has had any problems following the sparks?
I just noticed tiny blue sparks when i connect my screen via DVI but only when it is powered. It also makes a static sound through my speakers.

Advice?
 
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