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power adapter posts

Filed under: Accessories, Macbook Pro, MacBook, MacBook Air

Apple replacing frayed MagSafe power cables

by Robert Palmer (RSS feed) on Aug 20th, 2008

According to a Knowledge Base article posted last week, Apple is now replacing (free of charge) frayed, discolored and deformed MagSafe power adapters for MacBook and MacBook Pro.

But -- and there's always a but -- they will only replace it if there's no sign of "abuse." So if you've been doing the right thing and holding the hard plastic connector to disconnect the cable, you might not have to pay another $80 for a new power adapter.

If your connector looks like the one pictured, and has been babied its entire life, then take it back to an Apple-Authorized Service Provider or an Apple retail store for an evaluation and replacement. It doesn't matter if the warranty has expired.

Also -- bonus points for the greeked copy at the bottom of Knowledge Base article page. I'm sure that counts for a shot in some obscure Apple website drinking game.

Thanks, Jeff!

Tags: damage, fray, mac, magsafe, power adapter, PowerAdapter, replacement

Filed under: Analysis / Opinion, iPod Family

Apple patent for charger DRM

by Mat Lu (RSS feed) on Jul 21st, 2007

I don't think this is such a great idea.

According to the New Scientist, Apple has filed for a patent on a new security measure for mobile devices. Basically, it involves locking a mobile device to a particular charging cable so that if it's stolen, it won't recharge when plugged into another cable.

While I appreciate the sentiment of creating a deterrent to theft, this strikes me as more likely to be annoying than helpful. It will eviscerate the after-market supply of charging cables and docks from third party vendors (which are generally more reasonably priced than Apple's offerings). I fear that what has happened with the MagSafe power adapters will basically recur with Dock connectors. When Apple was just using a plug, it was possible to get reasonably priced third-party power adapters (and car/airline chargers), whereas today (since the MagSafe connector is patented) it is not.

This just raises the price and annoyance level ($59 for an airline adapter!?). What do you think? Do you like the idea of DRM'ed iPod or iPhone power adapters?

[via Oh Gizmo]

Tags: power adapter, PowerAdapter

Filed under: Hardware, Macbook Pro

Monster 85W MacBook Pro power adapter shrinks

by Mat Lu (RSS feed) on Jul 20th, 2007

Our blog brothers over at Engadget caught a nice little update to the MacBook Pro 85W MagSafe power adapter. Apparently it's being shrunk down closer to the size of 60W adapter that comes with the MacBook. Considering how huge the older 85W adapter was, this is a welcome change. The Apple Store is listing a shipping time of 3-4 weeks for the new adapter which goes for the same $79 as the old one (and the 60W).

Tags: MacBook Pro, MacbookPro, Power Adapter, Power Brick, PowerAdapter, PowerBrick

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