Why Is the MagSafe 2 Cable Not Charging My Apple Device?

The MagSafe 2 charging system is a reliable wireless charging solution by Apple for laptops and accessories, but it can occasionally face issues. One of the most common problems users encounter is when the MagSafe 2 cable is not working, leading to battery charging failure. This article aims to demystify why this might be happening and how to resolve it.

Understanding MagSafe 2 Wiring and Functionality

MagSafe 2 cables are designed to provide a secure and reliable connection between the charger and the device. Despite their robust design, these cables can be the weakest link due to their fragility. When you pull the attached charger from a wall outlet, you risk breaking the internal wiring of the cable. What's concerning is that you might not be able to directly perceive the break in the cable. The only way to know if this has happened is to try to recharge your device and see if it works as expected.

Checking for Physical Damage

The first step to troubleshoot your MagSafe 2 charging problem is to visually inspect the cable. Check if it is highly frayed or if any of the leads or wires are visibly broken. Even if the light on your device appears green, it does not guarantee that it is transferring power efficiently. A broken lead or wire can disrupt the power supply.

Testing on Another Device

To further diagnose the issue, you can test the cable on another MacBook or compatible Apple device. If the cable works on another laptop, then the problem likely lies with the System Management Controller (SMC) of your original device. Resetting the SMC might resolve the issue.

Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) for Resolution

The SMC manages various power and hardware systems within your computer, including the MagSafe charging functionality. If the SMC is at fault, resetting it might resolve the charging issue. Follow these steps to reset the SMC on your MacBook:

Shut down the MacBook.

Unplug the MagSafe cable from both the laptop and the power outlet.

Locate the following three ports on the left side of the laptop, from top to bottom:

MagSafe connector port Thick, USB-C port (identified by the lightning bolt icon) HDMI port

Press and hold the Shift Control Option keys and the power button simultaneously for at least 10 seconds.

Release the keys and the power button, then plug the MagSafe cable back in.

After following these steps, your MacBook should undergo a soft reset of the SMC, which might resolve the charging issue.

Conclusion

If you're experiencing issues with your MagSafe 2 cable not charging your Apple device, start by visually inspecting the cable for any obvious signs of damage. Testing the cable on another device can help determine if the problem is with the cable or the SMC of your laptop. Restoring the SMC through a simple reset might be enough to bring back the functionality of your MagSafe 2 charger.

Remember, if the problem persists, it might be worth taking your MacBook to an Apple authorized service provider for further inspection and repair.