Dell is recalling around 38,000 power adapters sold worldwide which could cause an electrical shock if they are used with power cords from third-party manufacturers.
The Dell Combination Auto/Air Adapters were sold between December 2003 and May 2004 as an accessory with Latitude and Inspiron notebooks, said Tom Kehoe, a Dell spokesman.
The adapters allow those notebooks to use either a standard AC wall socket or a DC power outlet such as a cigarette lighter in a car.
If combined with a power cord other than the one provided by the manufacturer, Mobility Electronics, the adapters could pose the risk of an electrical shock. No reports of electrical shocks have reached Dell, but the company is recalling the adapters to prevent any such problems from occurring, Kehoe said.
Customers will receive a new power cord and adapter inserts that prevent any other power cord from being used with the adapter. Dell is in the process of contacting customers who purchased the adapters, he said.
Dell has set up a website (www.auto-air-adapter.com) for the recall that will feature more information and local telephone numbers for international customers.
Tom Krazit writes for IDG News Service
