Product Recall
HP recalls notebook computer batteries due to fire hazard
April 20, 2006

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the Hewlett-Packard Company, have announced a voluntary recall of certain HP and Compaq Notebook Computer batteries. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

An internal failure can cause the battery to overheat and melt or char the plastic case, posing a burn and fire hazard.

HP has received 20 reports of batteries overheating, including two in the United States. One minor burn injury has been reported. Eleven cases of minor property damage were reported, including one in the United States.

The recalled lithium ion rechargeable batteries are used with various HP and Compaq notebook computers. The recalled batteries are a subset of those manufactured in early January 2005, and will have a bar code label starting with L3. HP and Compaq Notebook Model Series that may contain a recalled battery include:

The notebook model is located on the display screen bezel or in the labelling on the bottom of the notebook.

The affected products were sold at computer and electronics stores, online stores, and at hp.com and hpshopping.com from January 2005 through December 2005. The battery packs also were sold separately for between $100 and $130.

Consumers should stop using the “L3” coded batteries immediately and contact HP to determine if the specific battery is one of the ones being recalled, and if it is, receive a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled battery from their notebook computer, consumers should plug in the AC adapter to power the notebook until a replacement battery arrives.