MagSafe
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| MagSafe | ||
|---|---|---|
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| Type | Computer power connector | |
| Production history | ||
| Designer | Apple Computer | |
| Designed | 2006 | |
| Manufacturer | Apple Computer | |
| Produced | 2006 | |
| Superseded | Apple Power Connector | |
| Specifications | ||
| Hot pluggable | Yes | |
| External | Yes | |
| Pins | 5 | |
The MagSafe connector is a new power connector introduced in conjunction with the MacBook Pro at the MacWorld Expo in San Francisco on January 10, 2006. The MagSafe connector is held in place magnetically. As a result, if it is tugged on—for instance, by someone tripping over the cord—it comes out of the socket safely, without damaging it or the computer or pulling the computer off its table or desk.
The MagSafe connector pins are designed so that the rectangular connector can be inserted in either orientation. LEDs on both sides show green if the computer batteries are fully charged and orange if they are charging. MagSafe can be found on the 15" and 17" MacBook Pro as well as MacBook notebooks.
Though the 60 W MacBook and 85 W MacBook Pro MagSafe connectors are identical, Apple recommends using only the adapter provided with the machine.
Complaints about the MagSafe adapter focus on its tendency to fray at the connector head, and in some cases melt or catch fire in this area, but people have also said that the MagSafe has saved their laptops numerous times when the power cord is tripped over. However, there has been a tendency for the MagSafe head to stay connected even in the event of a drop.
MagSafe is similar to the magnetic power connectors that many deep fryers and Japanese countertop cooking appliances have in order to avoid spilling their dangerously hot contents.
[edit] Pinout
As one might expect with this design, the MagSafe connector pins are palindromic. The first and second pin on each side of the tiny central pin has continuity with its mirror pin.
- The inner large pin is V+ @ 6.86 VDC
- The outer large pin is V-
- The tiny center pin appears to be Earth ground
The rectangular metal shroud has no electrical function. Its purpose is solely for shielding the electrical pins and acting as a ferrous attractor for the magnets within the laptop's power receptacle.
[edit] External links
- MacBook Pro Design, featuring the MagSafe connector
- The power of magnets, part of the Ars Technica review of the MacBook Pro dedicated to the MagSafe connector
- Where are the MagSafe adapters for cars and airplanes?
- MagSafe Car & Airplane AC/DC adapter for the MacBook and MacBook Pro that will charge in Airplanes & Cars
- MagSafe Counter Notebook saved by MagSafe counter
- MagSafe Patent Apple's MagSafe patent
