G4 Powerbook Batteries Recalled - Could Pose Fire Hazard?
It seems that certain lithium ion rechargeable batteries sold between January 2004 through August 2004 for use with Apple's G4 Powerbooks may, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission "overheat, posing a fire hazard."
Just when you think you had everything updated, upgraded, and in perfect working order, here come the Battery Police. And this may be serious, so you'd better surrender. In this case, it's Apple's popular G4 series -- the 15-inch PowerBook -- they're after.
Seems certain lithium ion rechargeable batteries sold globally from January 2004 through August 2004 for use with Apple's G4 (aluminum) notebooks may, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission "overheat, posing a fire hazard." Though no injuries have occurred, at this printing, there have been four reports of overheated batteries.
So far, only G4s are associated with this recall; no other PowerBook or iBook batteries are believed hazardous at this time.
However, this is definitely the time to "check your batteries." Apple is cooperating fully with CPSC and will exchange the potentially defective batteries with a replacement, completely free of charge.
The battery in question is model number A1045: Take the battery out of the computer, and the model number will be on the label at the bottom of the battery.
Next, check for these critical serial numbers: HQ404, HQ405, HQ406, HQ407, and HQ408. The serial numbers are printed in black lettering beneath a barcode.
This is the lone affected battery; no other batteries need to be exchanged. However, if your battery is identified as one of the above listed, call Apple at 1-800-275-2273 in the U.S. between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week, for assistance. If you are not a U.S. resident, please contact Apple.
