interesting theory. I think the "shorting" issue may be quite valid. I found the most issues when changing between green and advanced modes on the adapter. To do so requires the adapter to be dismounted either at the lens, or the camera side of the adapter, then while depressing the button on the adapter, mount it back, all while leaving the camera set to it's on position. After the remount, frequently with the a7s the camera will malfunction, display black, or no f stop values, etc. The only way to resolve is to do a battery pull, and then the adapter seems to work correctly again. What is strange though, is my other Metabones Speedbooster adapter has no such issues on the a7s, and I can mount and dismount the adapter without any issues.