CPSC, IBM Announce Recall of AC Adapters for Notebook Computers

CPSC recall 04208 · announced September 2, 2004 · Delta Electronics · 225,000 units affected

The product

The recalled 56W AC power adapters were shipped primarily with IBM ThinkPad i Series, 390 and 240 Series, and s Series notebook computers. The adapters have three hollow pins at the AC inlet and part number 02K6549 on a label on the top of the unit. The IBM logo appears on top of the unit. Adapters with solid pins are not included in this recall.

The hazard

The adapters can overheat, cause damage to the circuit board and melt through the housing, which poses a fire and electrical shock hazard to consumers.

What to do (per CPSC)

Consumers should unplug the recalled adapters from the wall outlet immediately and contact IBM for a free replacement unit.

Official CPSC recall notice →

Notes

Incidents (per CPSC): IBM has received six reports of incidents, including some with minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Electronics and computer stores nationwide, the IBM Web site, phone orders, mail-order catalogs, and resellers sold the adapters with the ThinkPad computers, from January 1999 through August 2000. The adapters also were sold as an accessory during that time for about $55.
Consumer contact: Call IBM at (800) 410-5629 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or log on to IBM's replacement unit website at www.AdapterProgram.com

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.