Q: Should I unplug my computer?

iOSAndroidRebel wrote:

 

...If so, what are the issues besides data corruption, and will the Mac explode and shock me one day? Can I reinstall an app that is corrupted from shutting down too early?

Your Mac will not explode and shock you. Yes data could be corrupted by unexpected shutdowns. Yes you can reinstall apps if the download is installed.

Repeated power interruptions are not desirable. You should try to reduce the likelihood of file corruption by powering off before the power outage. If that is not possible, get a UPS. The UPS will give you some amount of time to power off the iMac.

Yes, you should turn your computer, your mobile phones and tablets off on a regular basis. This will reduce the temptation to use them when you should be outside getting fresh air, exercise and contact with actual human beings.

Uninterruptable power supply.

Duane wrote:

 

Yes data could be corrupted by unexpected shutdowns.

I've never heard of data loss (or, for that matter, directory corruption) from an unexpected shutdown, unless there was some writing to disk when the shutdown occurred--not very likely if the computer is left sleeping. Also Journaling almost always keeps the data intact.

Most of the time there will not be a problem. However there is the chance and it does happen. And, as luck would have it, It usually happens at the most inopportune time and with the most critical data.

Just to underline that my remark was meant only for the situation when there is no writing to disk--as when the computer is sleeping. I let my Macs sleep for weeks on end without shutting down. Of course, if I'm away for a while, and there's a possibility of lightning damage, I do shut down, and unplug. What I worry about most--and this depends on ones local power provider--is power loss, blackout or brownout, followed by a damaging power surge when power or full power is restored. Don't use a UPS, have been using good surge protectors for many years, without any problems. But maybe it's also because my local power provider is above average.

If the disk is active for any reason, a power outage can cause a head crash into a random position. The data loss/corruption may not be detected immediately.

Duane wrote:

 

If the disk is active for any reason, a power outage can cause a head crash into a random position. The data loss/corruption may not be detected immediately.

Understood. But again, I'm talking about no disk activity, which I assume is the case during computer/disk sleep.

In the perfect world, perfect scenario, you are correct.