To print: Click here or Select File and then Print from your browser's menu

This story was printed from silicon.com, located at http://www.silicon.com/

Story URL: http://hardware.silicon.com/desktops/0,39024645,39284643,00.htm

Sony launches massive Vaio recall
438,000 laptops recalled over overheating fears

By Margaret Kane

Published: Friday 05 September 2008

Sony is recalling about 438,000 Vaio TZ-series notebooks worldwide that may overheat and cause burns, the company said on Thursday.

The number of recalled laptops sold in the United States is 72,800, a Sony spokesman said.

Check out silicon.com's latest Cheat Sheets…

♦ Google Android

♦ Video: ID cards

♦ BBC iPlayer

♦ Galileo

♦ CRM

♦ Biometrics

According to a statement issued by Sony and the Consumer Products Safety Commission, the problem is related to irregularly positioned wires near the computer's hinge and/or a dislodged screw inside the hinge, which can cause a short circuit and overheating.

The problem affects the Vaio VGN-TZ100 series, VGN-TZ200 series, VGN-TZ300 series and VGN-TZ2000 series, which were sold through the SonyStyle stores and website, as well as electronics retailers and authorized business-to-business dealers nationwide from July 2007 to August 2008 for between $1,700 and $4,000.

Sony has received 15 reports of overheating, including one consumer who suffered a minor burn. The company said it would inspect and repair affected computers if needed.

Consumers are advised to contact Sony toll-free at 888-526-6219 or visit the company's support web page.

In 2006 Sony had to conduct a multimillion-dollar battery recall due to overheating issues.