Macbook pro electric shocks

Have had my Macbook Pro for just over 12 months and since day 1 - if i use the 3 pin plug i get electric shocks from my Aluminium Unibody, its the same if i fit a European type plug but NOT if i use the long flex lead - i think this is because it has an earth...
So - why is my Mac giving me shocks, and does anyone else have the same issue?
I know its not just my Macbook Pro - i bought my daughter an iMac 21" last month and i was trying to plug a USB printer in to it in the dark and as the USB connector made contact with the aluminium body there were sparks...
anyone else find this?

Its got nothing to do with the electrical outlets.
as an electrical engineer i can catagorically state that there is a fault on all metal bodied Mac's where there is a "Short to Ground" - a electrical leak to the case which is the earth/ground
this doesnt happen when using the long power lead with your DC Converter because the Mac is then earthed.
when you use the short connector or a travel connector (the small clip on power plugs - any region) the moulding is all plastic - there is no earth pin connection (in the long lead the "shoe" to use a photography term - hace a metal sleave to make the connection to earth)
if this was a washing machine or toaster it would have been recalled and you would have got your money back..
the most expensive computers on gods green earth and they will give you a shock at best and at worst - motor nueron disease
and still no comment from Apple.

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Macbook Pro electrical shock when you touch iPhone

Can anyone else confirm this:
If you touch the iPhone ( I have a first gen) that's charging through the outlet and touch the body of the MacBook Pro (charging or on battery power), you receive a very uncomfortable tingle. I really don't want to try different ways to make this happen for obvious reasons. Anyone else have this happen to them?
Here is my hardware:
Macbook pro (unibody late 2008)
iPhone (first gen)
It's pretty annoying since I charge my phone on my desk near my Macbook pro.
Anything I can do besides the useless answers such as:
- move it farther away
- use the iphone dock
- etc.
I should be allowed to use my hardware however I wish. Meaning I shouldn't be punished for having my phone in arms reach. I feel like I'm undergoing electroshock therapy.

As mentioned, it is an earthing issue. If you are using 3-prong connectors on all devices and they are plugged into the same UPS or power strip and you still get shocked this could indicate a potentially serious life-threatening problem with the wiring in your house or apartment.
If this is the case, you should have an electrician check thing out.
Luck-
-DP

Electric shocks in iPhone 4 and Macbook Pro

Hi
When I first started using my white 32GB iphone 4 a month ago, I felt very slight electric shocks and static-like feeling and a kind of pins and needles feeling in my hands. I soon either forgot about it or got used to it.
Then 2 weeks ago, I got a new 15" 2011 macbook pro (from Smart Deals on Amazon). When I was using the trackpad, I felt even more electric shocks and pins and needles in my hands and my hair has even started standing on end. When I used the laptop on my lap, it got boiling hot and the pins and needles, electric shocks and static in my body got even worse. Now, when I use my old macbook on my lap I'm even getting the same problem.
I have a carpeted 2nd floor flat and lots of electric devices. As far as I know all of my plug sockets are earthed.
I'm now not sure if the problem is psychological. My cousin held the phone outdoors and agreed that it was giving him shocks.
Could I have developed a static sensitivity since using the phone and the macbook pro?
Maybe I need an electrician to come to the flat or see a doctor.
But seriously, is there likely to be a fault with the macbook pro as this is by far the worst of the causes of the shocks and probably what started all of this? I need to get to the bottom of this quickly so I can decide whether to take back my macbook pro and/or iphone.
Thanks
Steve

Steve,
Someone suggested carpal tunnel syndrome to me as well. But I was able to see an orthopedic surgeon a few weeks ago who ruled that out. I'll see my regular doctor in a week for a yearly checkup. It may be worth getting yourself checked out.
When you went to the Apple store, were you able to test other phones to see whether they would give you shocks? That is one of my next steps. I've entertained the idea that it is mainly me--acute sensitivity to electricity but a recenlty acquired sensitivity. It did not begin until I started using the iphone in June. Before that electronic devices did not give me shocks, and I did not feel pinpricks or burning. My habits have not changed. Someone joked that regular yoga may be making my less blocked nerves more sensitive. That I take with a big grain of salt.
I'll call the nearest store to see if they will let me test other phones out.
Thanks and I'll keep you posted,
Tom

Electric shocks from macbook pro

I have had my MacBook Pro since november and at first wondered, why my fingers would sometimes tingle, when using the touchpad or just resting them on the area besides the touchpad. I though there might be cooling fans underneath this area, and it was vibrations i was feeling.
But after setting up my working space next to a radiator, i get small but painful electric charges, when some part of my arm touches the radiator while using the macbook. That is probably because the radiator is grounded and the tingling from the macbook pro has all along been electric discharges.
I don't know how strong these electric shocks are, as i have very little grounds for comparison - i don't go around experimenting with electricity and pain.
But is there any danger to myself or the computer or is it just harmless static electricity like what occurs when wearing the wrong shoes with the wrong carpet? If this cannot be answered from my description, then how do i gather more information?

As an addendum to this phenomena it has been noticed (on laptops with metal casing) that small electrical shocks and/or tingling can be felt if using the laptop on battery power with mains powered periferal equipment ie external hard drive, plugged into the usb or firewire ports. This is caused by insufficient grounding on the manins powered device and can be rectified by using the laptop with the three-pronged mains lead.
MacBook Pro 15" Mac OS X (10.4.9) 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo

Electric shock from MacBook Pro while charging only.

I got this painfull shock as if you have been pierce by a needle to your forearms.
The shocks are actually from the screws at the side of the MacBook Pro. You can test it by the following method while the power plug are connected.
1. Extend your forearms and let it touch with the screws.
2. Use a "Test-Pen" and touch all the screws. It will lighted up !! Even the "On" button has it.
You won't get it if the MacBook Pro are running with Batteries.

Actually, the users guide does state: “The AC power
cord provides a grounded connection." (page 30) and,
“For best results, always use the AC power cord and
connect it to a grounded power outlet when one is
available.” (page 31).
The term "grounded" should be put it the simplest form of explaination so that it will be better understand for other user who might not know it.
Just a suggestion....
"The AC power cord provides a better protection if you experience uncomfortable electric tingling sensations while operating the MacBook Pro" (page 30) and , "For best protection, always use the AC power cord whenever possible." (page 31).
MacBook Pro 1.86 - 80gb - 1 GB Mac OS X (10.4.6) Ex Apple//GS, //e, //c, //+ & iBook G4 user

MacBook Pro Causes Electric Shocks

About one year I purchased an Apple MacBook Pro. It's very unfortunate that in the past few weeks I am encountering problems that whenever my MacBook Pro (13 inch) is connected to the charger I get electric shocks.
As a resident in Singapore I went to your Apple Service Representative QCD at 6 Tagore Drive #04-03, Singapore with the request to rectify problem. Much to my surprise I was informed that it's "normal" to get "electric shocks" and they even refused to take in the MacBook Pro. I find it very hard to believe that it's normal.
I have always believed that Apple, Inc produces products that are safe & reliable and its for that reason that I have been loyal to Apple product for more than 15 years. I am lead to believe that none of Apple's Computer products is designed to cause "electric shocks". My MacBook Pro is still under warranty though it is about to expire on October 4, 2013, hence I believe that I am still entitled for Apple to check my MacBook Pro and for Apple provide the assurance that it does not cause for "electric shock" that often times is very significant.
I trust that the appropriate department within Apple, Inc. to advise me whether it is indeed normal & common practice to cause for ELECTRIC SHOCKS whenever it is connected to the charger. Your urgent reply would be very much appreciated.
Mr. Christopher Hans Gouw
Block 408 Sin Ming Avenue #06-201
Singapore 570408
Tel.: +65 83481128

Are you using the 3 prong adapter? (Grounded/Earth)
If you are using a 2 prong adapter try the 3 prnog so the MBP does not try find ground thru you.
If no joy, take to an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, it not normal to get shocked, and I would not use it until the problem has been resolved. Take advantage of your warranty

My macbook pro won't charge due to an electric shock

My macbook pro won't charge due to an electric shock that was caused from a charger that was in a bad condition, the computer didn't turn off when it happened but it stopped charging. When the battery died it refused to charge with any charger, I even bought 2 new ones. I sent it to apple and they are asking $650 for fixing it! The problem is that the macbook is only a year and a half old and I live abroad where there is no apple branches or any of that. I had to send it to the USA first. Also, I might lose everything saved on the macbook after fixing it! Any solutions? please help!

qhqpaliwallah wrote:
I might lose everything saved on the macbook after fixing it! Any solutions?
My computer is not working, is my personal data lost?

Macbook Pro 2009 Electric static Shock, then freezes

My Macbook Pro has been acting up. It's dry in the winter, and I expect static shocks from things, but having it freeze afterward *****.
If I touch any part of the MacBook Pro (even the screen), and get a shock, then the mouse will freeze, and the computer will lock up. It's still actually running, because I can hear my music, or audio from the movie.
If I press the reboot button, I get the [restart] [shutdown] [cancel] menu, but can not do anything with it.
All I can do is Press and Hold the reboot button, and start over.
I never know when I'm going to get a shock, and now I'm afraid to touch my mac if I step away (even for a few seconds).
I have to keep one hand in contact with the mac at all times to avoid this issue.
Please help.

I've been experiencing the EXACT same issue for a few weeks now, multiple times a DAY. One theory my partner had was that I was perhaps too electrically charged (given the dry weather, my wearing fleece all the time, and all the carpet in the apt), but that the charge could be released by touching a piece of metal. I happened to have a stainless steal ruler on my desk so I've been resting my hand(s) on it intermittently and it's been working wonders so far. No more static for over a day now (this may sound insignificant, but after having to force shut down and restart the MBP multiple times a day, it's such a relief).
Of course, I do not want to be carrying around the ruler where ever I go w/ the MBP and this shouldn't be happening anyway, so I called Apple Care (still have my coverage). I told the "genius" about my "solution" to the static issue. He stated that while it was great that I got the static to stop (for now) this should not be happening. He suggested I take out the battery, unplug the power cord, and then hit the power button for about 5 seconds. Then place the battery back in its place, plug back the power cord, and use the laptop again and see if the problem persists. If it does, go see an Apple "genius" in person.
So I've followed the "genius'" instructions.
My next step: Stop resting my hands on the ruler and test if the static returns. If so, I will bring my MBP to a "genius" at an Apple store. I'll keep you posted.
Good luck.
Message was edited by: Mercutio Perga

Getting a Slight Electrical Shock From MacBook Pro 2012-India

Hi,
Recently I purchased Macbook pro 2012 in India-Bangalore.The problem is,during its charging if i touched it around the corners,I am getting a slight electrical shock.Same case is happening even I am typing(exspecially when I pressed the keys).
It may be due to the earthing issues,i fixed tht,Eventhough no help.Can anybody suggest me the better approach.

Electric shock? You may find some helpful tips in this article.
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13727_7-57388858-263/ouch-my-mac-shocked-me/

Electric shocks on Macbook Pro

Hello to all,
I'm having issues with my brand new Macbook Pro (it has less that two weeks), I get this annoying electric shocks near the dvd drive and the keyboard. This is quite often, in 15 min. I got three electric shocks.
Since it's not normal I ask you if you have any problem or suggestion about this, the Apple support in my country is restricted and probably get another Macbook Pro will cause me more problems since I need to install and move all again.
I have call my local Apple support and they could not help me much.
Thank you for you help!
null
<Post Relocated by Moderator>

"I have call my local Apple support and they could not help me much."
Why not? Not even advising you to take your computer to a repair shop for a look-see?
Personally, I would not put up w/any type of "shock" coming from a computer. If I were you since your computer is still under warranty, I would call Apple Customer Service in your country.

I am getting electric current type shocks whilst using my track pad on my macbook pro. This happens when it is both plugged in to charge and also unplugged. I am left with a constant type pain of prickly pins and needles even when I am not using it.

I have recently bought a Macbook pro and have noticed that I am getting an electric current running up my fingers when using the track pad. This happens when it is charging but most worryingly it happens when it is not plugged in. It leaves me with pins and needles type feeling in my hand and arm even when I am not using it. Also when I sit it on my lap I get the same electrical current in my legs and down to my feet.
Surely this cannot be what I should expect with an apple product?, has anyone else experienced this?.
Yesterday I couldn't bare to use it the current was so strong. I went out for the rest of the day and suffered with pins and prickly needles all day.

Two possible courses of action suggest themselves:
(1) Return your computer immediately to point of purchase and/or authorized service provider.
or
(2) Consult with your doctor about your neurological symptoms.

Does the macbook pro gives a slight electrical shock when charging?

When the Macbook Pro is charging, I can feel a little electricity in my fingertips. Unfotunately, I don't have a three prong outlet, just two. Either way, I think this was not supposed to be. Anyone can share some answers?
Thanks,
Muriel

You need to use a proper ground plug (third one), if there is a electrical short the metal case can conduct deadly electricity right into your body.
However the Mac uses low voltage DC current and the deadly stuff is all behind the power brick, but the deadly stuff can come from another means with other equipement.
What your likely feeling is the equalization of electrons between your body and the metal case, something your doing is reducing your bodyy's electrons and your MBP has spare ones so they transfer and you can feel this sometimes.
If the difference is built up enough, then you get a nice zap, that's how lightning works.

I keep getting electric shocks from my macbook pro?

I bought it in 2011, and for the last year or so it has been giving me electric shocks when charging. I can feel it on my wrists when im typing, and any contact with the lower part of the mac. It can be quite painful and I've stopped using it whilst its charging. It doesn't matter what plug I'm using or what address, I still get it.
It is out of warranty, but I am really not happy that it's doing this. Shall I take it into apple and speak to them about it?

jennafromlondon wrote:
It is out of warranty, but I am really not happy that it's doing this. Shall I take it into apple and speak to them about it?
You certainly can and if it is a genius bar at an Apple store, the diagnosis will be free. Do not discount the possibility that the electrical system you are connecting to may be the problem.
Ciao.

I just purchased a 13" MacBook Pro, when i have the charger pugged in I get tingling electric shocks from the case. Is this a known and fixable problem?

I am using the supplied/genuine charger. The MBP is less than a week old and never dropped or abused.
When I run my fingers over any part of the body I can feel tingling electric shocks. Surely this isn't acceptable or safe?

The thing I find suspicious is that if it is a known problem, and there has been an official assessment that it poses no danger to the consumer, then I believe the documentation stating such would have to be made available upon request. When a car maker issues an internal dealer alert about an maintenance issue that is not dangerous and which does not justify a recall, they are still required under consumer laws to make that information available to owners in writing if requested. The same thing holds for most consumer products - you are not expected to merely take the word of an employee that it has been determined to be "acceptable and not dangerous" - the company is required to provide the documentation that supports that claim for a supposedly known issue.
I've owned several Apple laptops since the introduction of the first all metal cased Titanium powerbooks up to my current MBP (the first unibody model), and NONE have ever done what you describe. Regardless of what plug connector I have used on the charger, or where I have plugged them in (at home, at work, hotels, airports, other peoples homes).
If it is a known and documented problem, I would go back to the manager of that store and demand to see the internal documentation saying you "just have to live with it". That sort of response just does not seem legitimate to me.

MacBook Pro Al case electrical tingling using 2-prong adaptor on charger

MacBook Pro Aluminum case electrical tingling when using 2-prong adaptor on charger
This applies to the new (late 2008) MacBook Pro with the aluminum unibody enclosure
I've seen several people report this problem, but also I've seen threads about this problem wrongly conflated with other problems. The other threads include:
http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=440564
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1757399
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=1798538
This thread is specifically about the problem typified as follows:
- This is an electrical tingling. It is not a painful shock or zap. It is most noticeable when brushing against the aluminum surface of the Mac.
- This only occurs when plugged in using the 2-prong adaptor, not when using the 3 prong, not when running on battery (not plugged in).
- It does not always occur. It seems to happen when plugged in with the 2-prong adaptor for an extended period like overnight.
- This is not a physical vibration, and has no audible component.
- I have verified that the outlet is wired properly: correct polarity, effective grounding, correct voltage, neutral does not appear to be floating
Here is my story of trying to get this fixed so far:
1. Call #1 to Apple Support
- They told me they had never heard of this problem before
- They said I should reset the SMC (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1411). This strikes me as a simple if-all-else-fails-reboot solution. Not sure how a firmware reset will affect a hardware problem
- They then said they have seen this problem before and it is caused by faulty wiring. (yes, contradicts the first statement). This too seems like a cop out. I'll have to check it out though.
2. Call #2 to Apple Support
- "It says here you are hearing some sort of vibration" (aaaaaarg....no!)
- We recommend using the 3 prong adaptor
- You should bring in the machine to an Apple store to be fixed. Yes this is a known problem and we have a solution. I made an appointment to bring it in.
- I asked for a reference for this known problem and was told "CP 191"
3. Trip to see the "genius" at the Apple Store
- The genius starts out by telling me, " Sure, I've heard of other Macs doing this. I once had an old MacBook that did this."
- He then goes in the back with the machine to "test it"
- He comes out and says he was unable to duplicate the problem. This is not a surprise since it takes hours for it to manifest.
- He then proceeds to tell me that when it is ungrounded (such as using the 3 prong), then this is expected.
I am stunned. Thereafter ensues a long conversation of him trying to convince me that it is not a defect that this laptop, when used with factory supplied 2-prong adaptor, exhibits an electrical charge shocking the user. Some of his arguments:
- it's a complicated piece of power using machinery, like a car. To which I replied that if I had a car that shocked me when I tuned the radio, I would demand it be fixed.
- I asked him for Apple documentation that states that this is the expected behavior. All he could produce was documentation recommending that 3 prong adaptor be used when possible.
- He told me that all laptops are grounded through their cases. I said fine, but a properly functioning laptop would not need to shed excess voltage such that the user can feel it.
- It's just static electricity that builds up on this case
- You can place a shield or protector over the aluminum palm rest.
He told me that since we were past the 14 day window, he could not replace the laptop. I asked if it made a difference that the ticket was opened in the first 14 days and he said no. I asked if I could get just a replacement power brick to see if that made a difference. He replied that they did not have those parts available.
After arguing for over an hour, and it being clear that I was not going to just leave, he finally brought the manager over. She asked what I wanted and I reiterated that all I wanted was for the laptop to be repaired or replaced. She agreed to replace it, but...
- Since it was bought online it would need to be sent back (could not be replaced in the store). It would take 7-10 days
- They would not assist in any way in backing up or transferring the data. We would lose everything n the drive (as it was being replaced). I could not keep the old drive and just send the computer back
- The new one might also exhibit the problem. One of geniuses volunteered that he was sure it would. (IMO, if true, this simply means that the model is defectively designed)
story to be continued.....

Unfortunately, I went through the same thing. I do believe my issue was different, though (vibration).
I received contradictory information from 4 or 5 Apple reps over the phone, the Apple retail store refused to repair/replace the machine, and I was told that I may have to pay for labour if I took it to a reseller (obviously incorrect). In the end, I just returned the **** thing and bought a Macbook in-store. With the money I saved, I'm going to build a desktop PC with twice the power.
In my opinion, the service was much worse than the defective machine. I came very close to not buying another mac...

Macbook pro electric shocks

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