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MacBook Pro: More on problems with airline power inverters -- power draw the issue; workaround

MacBook Pro: More on problems with airline power inverters -- power draw the issue; workaround

CNET staff
2 min read

We continue to report an issue where the MacBook Pro does not work with power inverters offered on some airplanes. As originally stated, the issue appears to be excessive power draw, as units can be charged from the inverters while powered off, but exhibit issues when turned on (while charging).

The MacBook Pro draws 85W of power, while most airline power inverters supply 75W or less.

One possible solution is to remove the battery from the MacBook Pro while it is connected to airline power. This will reduce overall power consumption, and may allow the unit to function properly.

Note that the same power-draw issue is apparent with third-party power inverters for the MacBook Pro, like Kensington's.

MacFixIt reader Jim writes:

'I purchased the Kensington 150 Watt Portable Power Inverter for use in my car as neither Apple or any 3rd party vendors have released a true mag-power charger. Same problem as in the plane. You can keep the MacBook Pro charged if it is off and not running but as soon as you try to use the Kensington to charge or run the MacBook Pro in the car (a Lexus LS400) the Inverter starts beeping like Hell and goes into an alarm mode."

As a side note, the site SeatGuru has some interesting information about the different types of laptop power ports found on airplanes and the adapter types you'll need to use them.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

For further coverage, see our MacBook Pro special report.

Resources

  • 150 Watt Portable Power In...
  • SeatGuru
  • Late-breakers@macfixit.com
  • MacBook Pro special report
  • More from Late-Breakers