 The Chinese firm of Lenovo, who now makes the popular ThinkPad notebook computers that used to be manufactured under the IBM name, has recalled 205,000 batteries used in their ThinkPads.
The batteries are lithium ion extended-life batteries that were purchased either with the computer or as an add-on. The batteries were sold between November 2005 and February 2007. They carry the part number FRU P/N 92P1131. These batteries were sold as accessories for ThinkPad notebook models: R60, R60e, T60, T60p, Z60m, Z61e, Z61m and Z61p. They were manufactured by Sanyo Electric.
In September 526,000 Sony manufactured ThinkPad batteries were recalled after one of them caught fire in a highly publicized episode at the Los Angeles International Airport. This was part of a recall of Sony laptop batteries that exceeded more than 10 million worldwide.
While the Sony batteries were plagued by difficulties that resulted from manufacturing processes, Sanyo officials say these current problem are not caused by the batteries themselves, but occurs when the corner of the laptop encounters a blow when the battery is installed, as when it may be dropped in a certain way. In these instances the batteries can overheat and damage the notebook.
Lenovo is offering a free replacement battery. They have set up a Battery recall information webpage or consumers can call Lenovo at (800) 426-7378 for replacement assessment and information.
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