User level: Level 1 (10 points)Tiny electric spark in apple 20w power adapter. I noticed the tiny spark when i insert the usb c pin on my i pad. This spark is very tiny, i notice this spark if I focus from closely in a dark room. I am using I pad A16 is it normal, if it is not normal then can it cause by poor electric earthing?
Posted on Oct 5, 2026 6:27 AM
User level: Level 8 (43,489 points)Oct 5, 2026 6:47 AM in response to Ayanmandal
Any spark you might see when making a USB-C connection can ONLY be between the iPad chassis and cable “shroud” as the “finger contacts” are completely hidden.
As the 2-prong Apple 20W adaptor is isolated from the earth …
… it can only be caused by the equalization of chassis static voltage differences between the two previously “isolated” devices. (The iPad and the Power Adaptor/Cable)
This is most likely perfectly normal, but to give you more peace of mind, you can always have it evaluated at a genius bar.
User level: Level 10 (334,506 points)Oct 5, 2026 6:42 AM in response to Ayanmandal
The tiny spark that you see is, most likely, from static discharge. Earthing your iPad will simply provide a more effective path for any static charge to dissipate - and, ironically, may make the spark more visible.
If you have any doubts whatsoever as to the safety of your iPad or your Power Adapter, you would be well advised to visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to perform hands-on test and assessment:
User level: Level 10 (85,896 points)Oct 5, 2026 7:48 AM in response to Ayanmandal
As many such reports involve older buildings with ungrounded or outdated wiring, is your sparking limited to one location or does it happen when you use the charger at other locations as well?
If you are in a dry climate, static electricity becomes a more likely suspect.
There are simple testers that can check for wiring or grounding integrity with an outlet. This is an example of one with a US plug configuration:
Socket Safety Tester 110V-125V AC, Handheld Receptacle Detector
These are very important tools if you live in an older house or apartment whether you have an iPad or not.
User level: Level 1 (10 points)Oct 5, 2026 10:24 AM in response to Allan Jones
I am from india. The tiny spark is visible every places but i a dark room.
Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256370777