MacBook – How to secure the Firewire cable on the MacBook Pro

firewire-800macbook pro

Firewire connections can be a little touchy. Since I use my MacBook to record audio – sometimes on location, hooked into an interface or Firewire mixing board – I'm often concerned that the cable will get jostled and disconnect in the middle of a critical operation.

Does anyone know of any method or device that will secure the cable to the Macbook's Firewire port more effectively?

Low-tech solutions would be welcome. (For example, I use a thick rubber band to do the trick on my portable hard drive, running the cable back through the rubber band and holding it against the top of the drive.) However, I wouldn't be averse to purchasing a small gadget or connector of some sort.

Best Answer

It is very low tech, but some tape is both cheap and effective at holding a cable securely when you start the tape around the cable and then have an inch or two of tape holding the cable securely along the bottom surface of the mac.

Choose one with adhesive that cleans with alcohol and most cables and bottom cases are safe for cleaning any adhesive residue that may remain after your session.

I have also seen people use velcro cable wraps with the hook portion affixed to the cable and a loop pad semi-permanently affixed to the bottom of their MacBook Pro. The loop isn't that disruptive in daily use and you only have the hook portion of the velcro on the cable so it can be tucked away when not in use. This is far superior to tape or rubber bands for a more heavy duty connection under repeated use cycles.