NEC Technologies Inc. Recalls PC-17-01 And PC-17-02 Laptop Computer Batteries

PRODUCT: NEC PC-17-01 and PC-17-02 Laptop Computers.

PROBLEM: The computer battery can explode and catch fire.

WHAT TO DO: Turn on computer with the AC adapter disconnected and allow battery to discharge. Call (800)237-2913 to arrange for repair.

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), NEC Technologies Inc. (NECT), Boxborough, MA, is voluntarily recalling batteries in NEC PC-17-01 and PC-17-02 Laptop Computers. The batteries in these laptop computers can explode and catch fire.

Approximately 13,000 NEC PC-17-01 and PC-17-02 Laptop Computers were sold in the United States and Canada from December 1988 to April 1990. Model numbers can be found on the bottom of the computer. Only the portable PC-17-01 and PC-17-02 models are involved. No other NEC computers are involved.

NECT is aware of seven incidents of smoke and/or fire which occurred during battery recharging. Although there are no known injuries to date, NECT and CPSC view this as an important matter and are making every effort to insure consumer safety. To encourage participation in this recall, NEC is offering a $100 reimbursement to all consumers taking advantage of this important free battery replacement program. NEC developed, and currently has available, a new battery using state of the art nickel-metal hydride technology to replace the defective batteries.

Consumers should turn on the computers with the AC adapter disconnected and allow the batteries to drain completely. Owners should call NEC toll free at 1-800-237-2913 to arrange for free replacement of the battery and the $100 reimbursement.

NEC Technologies is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation. Media inquiries should be directed to John Bace at (312) 836-7403.

CPSC is announcing this recall as a part of its mission to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The Commission's objective is to reduce the estimated 28.6 million injuries and 21,700 deaths associated each year with the 15,000 different types of consumer products under CPSC's jurisdiction.