Batteries for Notebook Computers

CPSC Recall #02-037 — November 12, 2001

Recall #02-037 Date: November 12, 2001 Remedy: Replace

Product

Batteries for Notebook Computers

Description

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Bizcom Electronics Inc., of Milpitas, Calif., Sceptre Technologies Inc., of City of Industry, Calif., and Systemax Inc. of Port Washington, N.Y., are voluntarily recalling about 13,000 batteries sold with notebook-style personal computers and individually. These batteries can overcharge during re-charging, causing them to overheat, smoke and possibly catch fire. The firms have received two reports of minor property damage from the batteries overheating, smoking or catching fire in notebook computers sold to consumers. No injuries have been reported. The recalled batteries were sold individually and with notebook computers under the following brand names and model numbers:  Brand:Model Numbers:ARMTS30W2 and N38W2ChemUSAChemBook 3015EHyperDataMediaGo 2320JettaJetbook 9120MPCMPC Nomand 1500PC-ClubENP-325W2SceptreSoundx 6600 and 6900SystemaxSW-14, SW-15 and UltraTTX9200"RECHARGEABLE BATTERY" is printed on the top of the batteries. A label on the side of the recalled battery contains two sets of numbers. The first set must be "00." The second set must be either "99" or a number less than 52. Also, the letter "P" must be printed at the end of the first line on the label. "MADE IN JAPAN" also is written on the label. The firms listed in the chart sold these notebook computers (and individual batteries) nationwide primarily by mail order and on their web sites from October 1999 through October 2001 for between $1,800 to $2,500. Consumers should stop using these rechargeable batteries immediately and call (877) 475-3425 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or go to the firm's recall web site at www.regcen.com to order a free replacement battery.

Hazard

These batteries can overcharge during re-charging, causing them to overheat, smoke and possibly catch fire.

Incidents / Injuries

The firms have received two reports of minor property damage from the batteries overheating, smoking or catching fire in notebook computers sold to consumers. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using these rechargeable batteries immediately and call (877) 475-3425 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Friday to order a free replacement battery.

Units Affected

About 13,000

Sold At

The firms listed in the chart sold these notebook computers (and individual batteries) nationwide primarily by mail order and on their web sites from October 1999 through October 2001 for between $1,800 to $2,500.

Manufactured In

Japan