Predator X34 GS - buzzing/crackling sound when connected with usb c

Fnjo · May 2021

Hey,

So I got a new x34 gs yesterday and everything was fine when I connected it. I have my pc and macbook pro connected with it. So today I started hearing a weird buzzing/crackling noise coming from the monitor which appears to be happening when i'm using the usb c port which I have connected with my macbook. It's not loud but its really noticeable, like some coil whine noise. So I tried different cables and plugging/unplugging everything but nothing works and it only happens with the usb c port. When I mute the monitor speakers it gets less noisy but its still noticeable. Im guessing that the usb c input is somehow messing with the monitor speakers or something...

Any help would be appreciated. I can return it for another one if its an issue with the monitor I guess.

billsey · May 2021

Do you have a different cable to try? Especially one with the EMI filters on each end... The USB-C might be generating a higher frequency noise on the cable that shows up in the sound.

Fnjo · May 2021

billsey said:

Do you have a different cable to try? Especially one with the EMI filters on each end... The USB-C might be generating a higher frequency noise on the cable that shows up in the sound.

I did try with other thunderbolt usb c cables but none of them have EMI filters. Ill try those EMI filter clip ons when I get them. Thanks for the suggestion!

Fnjo · June 2021

billsey said:

Do you have a different cable to try? Especially one with the EMI filters on each end... The USB-C might be generating a higher frequency noise on the cable that shows up in the sound.

So I bought those EMI filter clips that clips on to your cables. I clipped two EMI filters on each end of the USB-C cable but the monitor is still producing the sound. Im pretty sure the power output on usb-c port of the monitor is somehow producing the noise. Most likely a factory/qc issue

Commodore_1995# · June 2021

Does the same issue occur when connecting the monitor directly to a grounded electrical outlet?

Fnjo · June 2021

egydiocoelho said:

Does the same issue occur when connecting the monitor directly to a grounded electrical outlet?

Yes, the monitor has been directly connected to a grounded outlet the whole time

Easwar · June 2021

Hi Fnjo,

Monitor self test,

1. Power OFF the unit.
2. Unplug all the cables.
3. Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds.
4. Turn ON the unit and check.

billsey · June 2021

Yeah, it sounds to me like it's time to contact Acer support. There is noise coming in from somewhere...

Xeron · June 2021

I have the same problem. Seems like either insufficient shielding from usb-c power output affecting speakers, or coil whine (also related to usb-c power output). Problem goes away if I connect my laptop to the external power supply.

winejug · June 2021

Just wanted to report that I have the same issue with the X34GS if QC from Acer is watching these forums. I'm not sure if it'll be enough for me to send it back, but it is a problem. Ultimately, I think the PBP abilities or lack thereof will be the deciding factor for me.