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Macintosh, Mac Apps, iPhone, Steve Jobs, Apple

The Case of The Exploding MacBook Pro

by Juan on March 13th, 2008

Michael Yurechko posted an entry on AppleTell chronicling a case of an exploding MacBook Pro. He narrates that a good friend of his and fellow contributor to Appletell, James Bayliss suddenly found himself the victim of an exploding MacBook Pro.

James was using his MacBook Pro when he suddenly heard a pop. Sparks flew, a flame started and he found himself trying to put out the fire. He was able to put out the fire and he proceeded to unplug his MacBook Pro and take out the battery.

James reported it to Apple, explained his side and after talking to several people and answering questions he was told that Apple will get back to him. As of this writing, Apple has contacted James and said that they’ll be sending him a replacement laptop as soon as he sends in the damaged one.

I haven’t heard a lot of reports about exploding MacBook Pros and I really hope that this is an isolated incident. Being a MacBook Pro user myself, I am especially interested about this incident. I want to know if this is an issue and with what models. So far, I’m happy with my MacBook Pro. It’s a 17″ 2.33 Ghz Core 2 Duo. I haven’t had a lot of heat issues with it but then again I am taking steps to ensure that it’s cooled. Not ridiculous steps though.

I use a Roadtools Coolpad to prop up my MacBook Pro on my desk. I make sure that my workplace is adequately ventilated. When working on the sofa in my living room, I make sure that the computer is placed on a tray and still on top of the Coolpad. Putting it on top of a pillow is a no, no.

Simple steps really and so far so good.

I left a comment on the post by Michael saying that I use the Coolpad. I got a reply from him and he recommends the Griffin Elevator.

How do you keep your portables cool? If you have any recommendations, please do share with us.

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POSTED IN: Hardware, Juan's Posts, Macbook Pro

1 opinion for The Case of The Exploding MacBook Pro

  • Lia Espina
    Mar 26, 2008 at 3:08 am

    Wow, an exploding MacBook Pro. That’s scary!

    I’m currently using a 2.4Ghz 15″ MacBook Pro and it certainly gets hot, especially when I play World of Warcraft. I usually get a temp of 70 C while playing and high 50s C when surfing and running light software.

    I use a laptop cooler as well, but an unbranded one at the moment. I wonder if I should invest in a better brand…

    I’m pretty paranoid about computer’s overheating since I’ve fried my old desktop before, hehe!

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