SEATTLE -Microsoft Corp. said yesterday that it is recalling 14.1 million power cords for its Xbox system because they can catch fire. The software company said 30 customers have reported fire damage. Seven Xbox users burned their hands, and 23 reported smoke damage or damage to their carpets or entertainment centers, according to Microsoft. Peter Moore, a corporate vice president, said the company has known about the problem for some time and spent the past several months gearing up for the recall by producing more cords and making other arrangements. Everywhere except Europe, the recall affects Xboxes manufactured before Oct. 23, 2003. In Europe, it affects those manufactured before Jan. 13, 2004. The recall affects about 70 percent of the approximately 20 million consoles sold, according to Microsoft. Customers can order a free replacement cord by going to http://www.xbox.com. Until a new cord is delivered, Xbox users should turn off their systems when not in use, according to Microsoft. Moore declined to say how much the recall will cost the company.
17 Archives
The Associated Press
