Any idea why my M1 MacBook Air frequently loses connection to my vintage USB (Kensington Expert Mouse Pro) trackball, plugged in via Apple’s a1621 HDMI-to-USB C adapter? (I’ve learned that these adapters can be fussy, and flipping the USB-C connector 180º is sometimes important for reasons that elude me, but that seems not to be the issue here.)
To clarify, is the MBA sleeping when the mouse gets disconnected?
Not sure about an M1 Mac but older Macs sometimes needed an SMC reset if they developed USB-related issues. It just involves holding several keys while booting up (search Apple Support for SMC reset). It won’t harm any data.
Thanks. But apparently M1s don’t have an SMC reset option.
Much belated answer (sorry!): No, once the trackball’s connected, it stays connected. But the next time I plug in that USB cable, it’s a (maybe) 1-in-3 chance the trackball gets recognized.
If that is not a typo, (somehow?) using an adapter meant for video connections could be causing problems.
The A1621 is Apple’s USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter. It connects to a USB-C port on the computer side and offers:
- HDMI video output
- USB-A for a downstream peripheral
- USB-C for connecting a power brick
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This is also connected to a video monitor, as designed. And to Apple’s own power brick.
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Indeed; I’m trying to use it in all three capacities. The monitor mostly connects; the mouse rarely connects; the power always connects.
Got it. While I’ve never used your specific adapter, I have a couple of Lightning to HDMI adapters I use with iPads. My experience with the those adapters coupled with chatter I’ve seen various places online make me think your problem is caused by the adapter. Apple HDMI adapters are notorious for being flaky and unreliable.
Hm. My assumption has been that Apple’s adapter wouldn’t be the weak point, but “Apple HDMI adapters are notorious for being flaky and unreliable” is compelling. So I’ll try some alternatives. First up (just ordered): this one.
And for 20 bucks, why not? That’s the big downside to Apple accessories to my mind…there’s a jumbo price premium and the “thinner thinner thinner” design often leads to dongles and cables wearing out quickly.