Compaq Computer Batteries Recalled

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2000 --Compaq Computer Corp. is voluntarily recalling for replacement about 55,000 battery packs used with Compaq's Armada notebook computers. These battery packs can short circuit, causing them to overheat, release smoke and possibly catch fire.

Compaq has received one report of a battery pack overheating, and damaging the notebook computer. No injuries were reported.

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

The recalled battery packs were sold with Compaq's Armada E500 and V300 notebook computers. Writing on the batteries include "Compaq" and "Assembled in Taiwan." The battery pack can be identified by a date code and serial number on the white label to the right of the battery connector.

• Date code TCGK with a serial number from 00001 to 10500, 20001 to 21800, and 40001 to 83100, or
  
• Date code TCHK with a serial number from 40001 to 44700
  
  

Compaq dealers sold these battery packs worldwide with notebook computers and separately from June 2000 through July 2000. The notebook computers sold for between $1,800 and $3,800, and the individual batteries sold for about $165.

Consumers should immediately stop using these battery packs and contact Compaq to learn how to discharge them and return them. Consumers with the recalled batteries will receive two free battery packs for each recalled battery pack they return. For more information, call Compaq at (800) 889-7613 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or go to the firm's battery recall website at http://www5.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/2000/pr2000102701.html.