For Immediate Release
November 13, 2001
Release # 02-037
Contact: Scott Wolfson (301) 504-0580 Ext. 1189
Battery Hotline: (877) 475-3425

CPSC, Computer Distributors Announce Recall of Batteries for Notebook Computers

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Bizcom Electronics Inc., of Milpitas, Calif., Sceptre Technologies Inc., of City of Industry, Calif., and Systemax Inc. of Port Washington, N.Y., are voluntarily recalling about 13,000 batteries sold with notebook-style personal computers and individually. These batteries can overcharge during re-charging, causing them to overheat, smoke and possibly catch fire.

The firms have received two reports of minor property damage from the batteries overheating, smoking or catching fire in notebook computers sold to consumers. No injuries have been reported.

The recalled batteries were sold individually and with notebook computers under the following brand names and model numbers:

Brand / Model Numbers ARM / TS30W2 and N38W2 ChemUSA / ChemBook 3015E HyperData / MediaGo 2320 Jetta / Jetbook 9120 MPC / MPC Nomand 1500 PC-Club / ENP-325W2 Sceptre Soundx / 6600 and 6900 Systemax / SW-14, SW-15 and Ultra TTX 9200

"RECHARGEABLE BATTERY" is printed on the top of the batteries. A label on the side of the recalled battery contains two sets of numbers. The first set must be "00." The second set must be either "99" or a number less than 52. Also, the letter "P" must be printed at the end of the first line on the label. "MADE IN JAPAN" also is written on the label.

The firms listed in the chart sold these notebook computers (and individual batteries) nationwide primarily by mail order and on their web sites from October 1999 through October 2001 for between $1,800 to $2,500.

Consumers should stop using these rechargeable batteries immediately and call (877) 475-3425 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or go to the firm's recall web site at www.regcen.com/batteryrecall to order a free replacement battery.