MagSafe
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.
MagSafe is similar to the magnetic power connectors that many deep fat fryers and Japanese countertop cooking appliances have in order to avoid spilling their dangerously hot contents.
Note: Many users reported that the spring-loaded pins in the adapter ceased to function after a period of a few months, and that repair or replacement was necessary[citation needed].
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
- MCT will convert your MacBook or MacBook Pro power adapter so that you can use it with a car/airplane power adapter. This gets around the problem that there are not yet any power adapters that will let you power your Apple notebook in a car or airplane (without using an AC inverter).