Apple Portables: Troubleshooting MagSafe adapters
Apple Portables: Troubleshooting MagSafe adapters

The LED on the adapter connector doesn t light up when attached to the computer.

The adapter only charges the computer intermittently.

The adapter s white insulation separates from the magnetic end of the MagSafe connector.

If you are attempting to troubleshoot a non-MagSafe power adapter with a barrel-type connector, refer to Apple Portables: Troubleshooting power adapters with a barrel-type connector.

If you receive a replacement MagSafe adapter with a "L" style MagSafe connector when you previously had a "T" Style MagSafe connector, the "L" style adapter is fully compatible with your Apple computer.

Resolution

Follow these steps to identify the cause of the issue and find out which solutions may be available to you.

If you see a spark

Sometimes when you plug the power adapter into the wall, you may see a spark. This is usually normal and can occur when you plug any electrical appliance into a live outlet. If the spark comes from somewhere other than the blades of the plug, if you experience any damage or discoloration of the adapter, or if you have other concerns about sparking, contact Apple.

Troubleshooting power adapter issues

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Make sure a known good outlet is being used.

Verify that the power outlet you re using is working correctly. Plug in a known good appliance, such as a lamp, TV, or clock, and confirm it powers on properly.

Make sure the proper wattage adapter for your portable computer is used.

Select the appropriate power adapter for your Apple portable computer. You can use a higher wattage power adapter, but you cannot use one with less wattage without potential operating issues.

Identify line noise issues.

Unplug the power adapter from the wall, let it sit for 60 seconds, then plug the adapter back in.

If the adapter works after this 60-second "rest", you most likely have a line noise issue with your power source. You should reset the adapter periodically by repeating this moment of rest. This issue occurs when the AC adapter s "over voltage protection" feature senses ground noise and then turns off the adapter.

Some possible sources of line noise include lights with ballasts, refrigerators, or mini-refrigerators that are on the same electrical circuit as your computer. This behavior may not occur if you plug the power adapter into an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or plug it into a different circuit.

Unless the adapter continues to exhibit this behavior on a known good outlet, it does not need to be replaced.

Be sure you are using the adapter in a well ventilated area

The power adapter may become very warm during normal use. Always put the power adapter directly into a power outlet or place it on the floor in a well-ventilated location. If you are using your MagSafe adapter in a poorly ventilated area, or if the MagSafe adapter is covered by a blanket or other form of insulation, it may turn itself off in order to prevent damage to the adapter.

You may notice the following:

Your power adapter may not charge the computer.

The LED on the adapter connector may not light up when attached to the computer.

The adapter may only charge the computer intermittently.

If you encounter these behaviors please disconnect the adapter and wait until it cools down. Once cool, the adapter should function normally. If you still have issues, follow the rest of the troubleshooting in this article; beyond that please contact Apple.

Check for possible AC plug (also known as a "duck head") or two- or three-pronged AC cord issues.

If you re using the AC plug (also known as a "duck head") with the power adapter, swap it out for the included two- or three-pronged AC cord, or if you are using the two- or three-pronged AC cord swap it out with the AC plug. Either connector can be easily connected the adapter as shown below. http://www.jyins.com/