How to fix the LED spotlight effect on MacBook Pro
I hope that soon this tip sheet becomes obsolete. Apple could make that happen with a simple firmware update for this problem, I’m guessing. I’m also guessing they may be dragging their heels on it in spite of criticism because of a possible pending release of new MacBooks and MacBook Pros this Fall.
This issue is one affecting only the MacBook Pro. The MacBook Pros have a backlit display (and a backlit keyboard for easier typing in the dark). This backlit area is lit by LED lights. These LED lights power on behind the display when the computer is powered up.
People experiencing this error see what looks like Hollywood style spotlights going from the bottom of their display to the top. In the right conditions it could possibly be pretty, but since most people need to get work done when they are at their laptop, it’s distracting and prevents them from seeing the display fully to get anything done.
The problem is so prevalent that there is a 300 reply thread on the Apple support forums about it and sites like Ars Technica are starting to mention it and try to get it fixed by Apple. Never fear, there is a fix you can try while we all await Apple’s updated firmware release for the MacBook Pro line.
Type the following key combination: SHIFT+CONTROL+EJECT
The spotlight issue, caused by several LED lights in a series not lighting up as they should, should be fixed once you type that key sequence in. The drawback to the key sequence solution as opposed to a firmware based on is that you may have to repeat it over and over if the problem comes back. With a firmware fix it would be solved on the first try. Apple should address this issue before it becomes a public relations issue like MobileMe and the buggy Leopard launch.
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September 18th, 2008
I can’t see any advantage in pissed customers. How is that going to make people more inclined to buy the next product? Battered wife syndrome marketing?