HP Recalls 70K Batteries

HP today issued a US-wide recall through the Consumer Product Safety Commission for 70,000 notebook batteries. The recall affects most Compaq and HP home models sold from August 2007 through March 2008 and is prompted by HP's fears that the lithium-ion pack could overheat, catching fire and potentially burning owners. It cites two incidents in which the battery burst due to internal pressure and caused minor area damage but no injuries.

The overheating isn't believed connected to the same Sony battery issue from 2007 that prompted a global recall by Sony as well as several other major PC manufacturers, including HP again as well as Apple, Lenovo and Dell.

A recall is ill-timed for HP, as the company was sharply criticized in the latest Consumer Reports study for design, frequently placing in mid-pack behind both Macs as well as other major Windows-based competitors.

By Electronista Staff