Apple Computer Inc. is voluntarily recalling 570,000 power adapters that were sold with older PowerBook models because they could overheat, creating a potential fire hazard.
The recall affects adapters sold for use with the PowerBook G3 notebooks shipped from May 1998 until March 2000.
The recall is being done in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In a statement, Apple said it had received six reports of the adapters overheating. The company said no injuries were reported.
Apple said customers should stop using the adapters and not leave them unattended while plugged into any power outlet. Customers should contact the company to receive a free replacement.
The recall includes AC adapters with a two-pronged connection that came with Apple Macintosh PowerBooks or that were sold separately. The small rectangular black adapter has a permanently attached cord on one end that connects to the computer and a detachable two-prong cord on the other end to plug into an AC outlet. It is approximately 4.75 in. long by 2 in. wide. The label located on the side of the adapter reads in part, “Macintosh PowerBook 45W AC Adapter” and Model Number: M4402.
The adapters were designed for use in North America, Japan, Latin America and Asia. The recall doesn’t affect AC adapters with a three-prong connection – Model Number: M5159 – that were supplied for use in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Information on how to receive a replacement is available at Apple’s Web site at http://www.apple.com/ca.
