Apple Studio Display keeps draining power, even when blank and asleep
a year ago
- #macOS
- #Apple Studio Display
- #Power Management
- Mac mini and Apple Studio Display power management issue after macOS 15.4 update.
- Mac mini wakes up for updates but continues consuming 14–15W instead of returning to 1–2W sleep mode.
- Issue traced to Apple Studio Display not entering proper sleep mode despite Mac mini sleeping correctly.
- Studio Display remains semi-awake due to Thunderbolt activity, drawing significant power (14–15W).
- Debugging involved Terminal, smart plugs, and logs, revealing Thunderbolt interface activity as the culprit.
- Clean macOS install and 15.5 beta update did not resolve the issue.
- Workaround suggested: Use a smart plug to cut power to Studio Display when Mac sleeps, automated via Shortery.
- Issue highlights energy waste in desktop setups with Thunderbolt displays post-macOS 15.4 update.