Tech Shout!

Dell, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, voluntarily recalled about 22,000 notebook computer batteries in the U.S. The batteries were found to overheat, which could pose a fire risk. Consumers have been warned to stop using the recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Dell said it has received three reports of batteries overheating. The incidents involved damage to a tabletop, a desktop and minor damage to personal effects. No injuries have been reported so far.

The recalled batteries were sold with the following Dell notebook computers: Latitude D410, D505, D510, D600, D610, D800, D810; Inspiron 510M, 600M, 6000, 8600, 9200, 9300, XPS Gen 2; and Dell Precision M20 and M70 mobile workstations.

The batteries were also sold separately, including as secondary batteries and in response to service calls. The batteries insert into the battery bay located on the underside of the notebook. “Dell” and “Made in Japan” or “Made in China” are stamped on the batteries. The identification number for each battery appears on a white sticker. Customers should have this number available when they contact Dell to determine if their battery is part of the recall.

Dell sold these batteries with the notebook computers, as part of a service replacement, and as individual units on its Web site and catalogs from October 5, 2004 through October 13, 2005.

Customers have been advised to contact Dell to verify if their notebook computer battery is part of this recall. Incase it is, consumers should immediately stop using the battery as a power source for their notebook computer. Dell said it would provide a free replacement battery.