Computer Hope
Hardware => Hardware => Topic started by: NoviceTechie on October 09, 2016, 12:09:05 AM
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Hi,
I have a rather odd set of questions:
One of my power adapter's end plugs (the area around the prong) sparked when I plugged it into a public outlet.
It's been a few weeks and the adapter is still working.
However, I noticed the prongs were blackened, or had black residue on them.
Do you think it's still safe to use the adapter? What do you think the black residue, or blacked prongs mean?
Thanks for your input
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Arcing or sparking at a point of electrical contact usually means the prong or pin is a poor fit for the outlet. The problem could be your adapter's male pins or prongs being bent, worn, or slightly too small, or else the female parts of the wall outlet being likewise worn. This sparking will cause blackening or charring and generates heat. You may notice a smell of burnt plastic. The overheating could damage or destroy the adapter and even start a fire. If it only does it at one outlet, avoid that outlet. If it does it all the time, discard the adapter.
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The residue can be cleaned with a solvent. You need to also inspect the wall outlet for possible hidden damage. If it has extensive damage, it must be replaced.
(http://kingfisher.scene7.com/is/image/Kingfisher/Electricity_Replacesocket_278_01?wid=260&hei=190)
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I can beat that
(http://mikesenese.com/DOIT/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Burnt-Power-Plug.jpg)
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Salmon Trout,
That sure looks fresh.
Did you just do that today? ;D
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A burnt area can create an electrical resistance, which can cause the plug to get hot and result in a short circuit. Try rubbing it clean with a sand paper so that it can get back to clean metal.