[From WSU Computing & Information Technology
Division – May 22, 2007]
Laptop/Notebook computer battery recalls
May 2007
In August 2006, Dell and Apple Computer, Inc. announced an extensive battery
recall and exchange program of lithium-ion batteries for their laptop/notebook
computers. These announcements were followed by recalls from other
laptop/notebook computer manufacturers. The batteries in question, all
from Sony Corporation, suffer from a defect that can potentially cause
them to overheat and even catch on fire.
On March 2007, Lenovo announced an additional recall affecting some batteries manufactured
from Sanyo Corporation.
In April 2007, Acer America Corporation ("Acer") announced an additional
recall affecting batteries used in certain Acer notebook computers.
Because some companies have expanded the original scope of their
recall it is important that you cross-check the serial number of your battery
against the manufacturer lists below to check whether your battery has been
recalled. Laptop/notebook computer manufacturers that have currently
issued recalls:
Notes:
- Sony Corporation has issued a press release announcing a "global voluntary replacement program" for laptop batteries.
- Toshiba is participating in the Sony battery recall but also has a separate "exchange" program active, citing "performance" reasons for the latter. Toshiba says some of their batteries fail to hold to a charge. Information for both programs can be found through the company link above.
- Information for both Sony and Sanyo battery recalls can be found through the company link above.
- HP has an active battery replacement program, despite posting a joint
press release with Sony to announce that they will not issue
a battery recall.
- Some companies, notably Hitachi and Sharp, have issued battery recalls for laptops sold outside of the north American market. If you bought your laptop in another country it is advisable to call the manufacturer and ask about the status of your laptop.
- It is normal for a laptop/notebook battery to get slightly warm during
the charging process. Generally, it is a good practice to charge
it away from carpets,
drapes or other flammable objects.
Resources
Sony and Sanyo will be working in conjunction with the Consumer Product Safety Commission concerning any recalls:
