Static in Laptop

[Mick Emery]

I have a HP zx5078cl laptop. 3.5G processor, 1.2G Ram, running XP Home Edition. When I turn it on, I hear a slight hum with some static. The static/hum also changes when I move my mouse (USB) or pad mouse on the computer. When I start to open PowerTracks (ver.10) while the program is opening the static hum seems to disappear 'til it's opened- then comes back.
HOWEVER, when I plug in my Edirol SD20 (USB) with my Presonus Firebox (firewire) to my PA system the hum & static are almost unbearable!
Has anyone experienced this? It seems, to me, to be initially from the computer. Any help would be GREATLY APPRECIATED.

[TimOBrien]

That sounds like a grounding or power supply problem and you need to take it up with the manufacturer immediately.

[scottdemarko]

If you unplug your laptop (I.E. run from the battery only for a moment) and the sound goes away, then we have a ground loop hum or earth loop. (However you want to say it) Recommended fixes are items like the humx
and furman or monster power conditioner with ac line filters.

My laptop occassionally does this depending on where I am pulling power. (I Use it with a large PA so image the sound your talking about amplified by 5,000 watts.) Good power conditioner, line filter technology w/ hum elimination devices should fix the problem (Should)....

Best of luck!

Check out this category for more info.. http://www.sweetwater.com/store/category/c960

[Mick Emery]

Thanks Scott! You're an animal!!!! Furman here I come. Any suggestions--which model?

[scottdemarko]

I'd suggest calling your sales engineer for that. Its best to discuss this in real time, lots of possible options but budget, and features etc are discussion points that need to be brought up.

Essentially we are looking for voltage regulation, power conditioning, filtering. A combination of all 3 is best.


P.S. I failed to mention that I also have an HP ZV6000 I have had this problem happen on my Dell laptop and my G4powerbook before, but it does seem more noticeable on my HP. Perhaps that is also an HP issue that does need to be brought to their attention. I fixed my problem by plugging into a different outlet that nothing is plugged into and also using power/line conditioners-voltage regulators.