Deadlines nearing for claims over frayed Apple MacBook MagSafe power connectors

The deadlines are approaching to make claims under the class action settlement relating to problems with past implementations of Apple's MagSafe Connector on its MacBook and MacBook Pro series computer. The lawsuit was settled by Apple in November 2011.

The MagSafe Connector is a fantastic addition to mobile computing: it lets users avoid dragging their computer to the floor by the power cord. Still there was growing pains with the technology.

The problem with the early MagSafe was a week sleeve. Of course, the cable bent and the wires inside the plastic sleeve could become frayed and pull out. This posed a fire hazard and many customers replaced the units. Apple settled, but of course, "the settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing."

Owners of MacBooks and MacBook Pros can receive various cash payments covering the purchase of replacements adapters within the first three years following the initial purchase of the computer. The amount of the cash payments vary depending on when the Replacement Adapter was purchased.

The FAQ page for the settlement is here and the timeline page is here. The date to object to the suit and to exclude oneself from the suit just passed. The site says that March 21, 2012 is the due date for the sending of claim forms, which can be downloaded from the site.

Meanwhile, Patently Apple this week showed the patent drawings and description for MagSafe. The illustration is interesting, showing several types of magnet arrays on the connector.

Apple's 60 Watt MagSafe Power Adapter features a magnetic DC connector that ensures that the power cable will disconnect if it experiences undue strain and helps prevent fraying or weakening of the cables over time. In addition, the magnetic DC helps guide the plug into the system for a quick and secure connection.