Massachusetts Personal Injury News

Computer Batteries Used in Notebook Computers Recalled

Following multiple reports from consumers of batteries overheating in various types of notebook computers, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission , which protects the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction, and Sony Energy Devices Corporation have announced a voluntary recall of the lithium-ion batteries.

These lithium-ion batteries have been used in Hewlitt-Packard, Toshiba and Dell Notebook Computers. This recall includes approximately 35,000 batteries and an additional 65,000 sold worldwide. Sony Energy Devices Corporation is the manufacturer of the lithium-ion batteries, which were included in numerous types of notebook computers from 2004 to 2006.

There have been 19 reports of the batteries overheating, which includes 17 reports of flames or fire. Out of these reports, 10 resulted in minor property damage and two consumers received minor burns.

The batteries were included in notebook computers and sold separately for use. The following notebook computer models are affected by this recall:

Computer Manufacturer	Units	Notebook Model	Battery Model
Hewlett-Packard	About 32,000	HP Pavilion: dv1000, dv8000 and zd8000 Compaq Presario: v2000 and v2400 HP Compaq: nc6110, nc6120, nc6140, nc6220, nc6230, nx4800, nx4820, nx6110, nx6120, nx9600	Recalled batteries will have a bar code label starting with A0, L0, L1 or GC
Toshiba	About 3,000	Satellite: A70/A75, P30/P5, M30X/M35X, M50/M55 Tecra: A3, A5, S2	n/a
Dell	About 150	Latitude: 110L Inspiron: 1100, 1150, 5100, 5150, 5160	OU091

The model of the battery can be found on the battery’s label. Computers containing these batteries were sold directly by Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba and Dell, through computer and electronic stores across the country and through various online retailers for between $700 and $3,000. The lithium-ion batteries were also sold separately for between $100 and $160. The notebook and batteries were sold during the following dates:

• Hewlett-Packard – sold from December 2004 through June 2006
• Toshiba – sold from April 2005 to October 2005
• Dell – shipped between November 2004 and November 2005

It is recommended that consumers remove the battery and contact their computer manufacturer to determine if the battery is included in the recall. If the battery has been recalled, the manufacturer will replace it for free. Consumers can use the AC adapter to power the computer until the replacement battery arrives.

For more information about the recalled lithium-ion batteries, consumers should contact the manufacturer of their notebook computer directly.