Q&A on Dell's Laptop Battery Recall
Posted on: Tuesday, 15 August 2006, 18:00 CDT
By The Associated Press
Dell Inc.'s recall of 4.1 million notebook computer batteries because of possible fire and smoke danger has many consumers wondering if their systems are affected.
Some questions and answers:
Q. What's the risk?
A. Though no injuries have been reported, battery maker Sony Corp. says there have been about a half-dozen cases of fires or smoking laptops in the United States. The problem apparently happens when tiny metallic particles short-circuit the battery cells, causing them to overheat.
Q. What Dell products are affected?
A. Dell says the faulty batteries were included in some models of the Round Rock, Texas-based company's Latitude, Inspiron, XPS and Precision mobile workstation notebooks that shipped between April 1, 2004, and July 18 of this year.
Q. How do I know my laptop battery has been recalled?
A. Dell has launched a Web site, http://www.dellbatteryprogram.com where consumers can check their systems. At the site, you can enter your battery's identification number - a 20-digit string of letters and numbers - to quickly check if your system is part of the recall.
Q. What do I do if my battery is recalled?
A. If you've checked the Web site and find out you have a faulty battery, you'll be directed to an order form for a free replacement. Dell also says it will provide the means to return the recalled battery packs for proper disposal.
The company says consumers also can call its technical support number (866-342-0011 in the United States) for further assistance, or write to Dell Inc., Attn: Battery Recall, 9701 Metric Blvd., Suite 200, Austin, TX 78758.
Q. What should I do while I wait for my new battery?
A. Dell advises customers with bad batteries to discontinue using them. In the meantime, consumers can still use their laptops as long as they stay tethered to an AC power adapter.
Source: Associated Press/AP Online
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