Fujitsu Battery Exchange Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Fujitsu replacing some batteries in certain notebook PC models?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in a recall program announced on October 23, 2006, has announced that certain Lithium-ion batteries manufactured by Sony Energy Devices Corp. of Japan, including some supplied to Fujitsu and used in LifeBook mobile computers, have the potential to overheat, posing a fire hazard to users. Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation has agreed to join their Sony battery recall program for customers in the United States, and its subsidiary Fujitsu Canada, Inc. has elected to extend a comparable program voluntarily to customers in Canada. By offering the Fujitsu Battery Exchange Program, both Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation and Fujitsu Canada, Inc. wish to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our customers, and so we are urging all customers who have products that meet the criteria set forth in the guidelines to register, receive a replacement battery and return the recalled one to us as specified.
Are all Fujitsu notebook PC's affected?
No, because not all batteries used in Fujitsu notebook PC's are affected. Only those models which were sold with a battery sold to Fujitsu by Sony, and of those only a smaller group which had batteries made by Sony during particular date ranges, are affected.
If I have an affected battery, do I need to remove the battery from my Fujitsu notebook PC and run it on AC power?
Yes, if at all possible. If your LifeBook notebook has an affected battery Fujitsu advises that you use your computer with the battery pack removed. Shut down your computer, disconnect the AC adapter and then remove the battery pack. Connect the AC adapter again to use your computer.
If you choose, contrary to Fujitsu's advice, to continue to use your Sony battery while waiting for a replacement, you can reduce risk by taking the following precautions:
- Do not use the LifeBook simultaneously on battery power with the AC adapter; disconnect the AC adapter from the computer if using battery power
- Operate the computer only on a flat surface, and never on surfaces which retain heat (such as towels, blankets, clothing) or heated surfaces
- Cease using battery power if temperature exceeds usual heat levels
- Remove the battery at all other times
After you receive and install your replacement battery, you may resume normal use of your LifeBook.
I'm confused. Earlier I understood it was still OK to use my Fujitsu notebook PC on an affected Sony battery. What has changed?
Previously, we had understood that the affected Sony batteries would not result in any adverse incident when used in Fujitsu computers. However, on October 24, 2006, in Japan, an incident occurred where a Fujitsu notebook PC using a Sony battery of the type recalled in the U.S. suffered a smoking and sparking incident, resulting in minor burns to its user. Therefore, in the interests of customer safety, we now advise against continued use of the affected batteries.
Where can I get more information about the use of battery power with my notebook?
For additional information on operating mobile computers on battery power, please refer to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's website article located at: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06271.html.
How do I know if my Fujitsu notebook PC qualifies for a free replacement battery under this program?
Please refer to the automated exchange program, which can be found at: http://www.computers.us.fujitsu.com/battery/ or call us at 1-800-8FUJITSU.
When will the replacement batteries be available?
Fujitsu will send your replacement battery when available based upon the information you provide via the website. Batteries will begin to be available from Sony in early November.
My notebook PC runs hot. Should I be concerned? Do I need a new battery?
Not likely. This is normal. Notebooks will generate heat when used in different applications or when the battery is being charged. As a rule of thumb, the more demanding the application, the more heat that will be generated. If you feel your notebook is excessively hot you should contact our support hotline at 1-800-8FUJITSU for guidance.
Which LifeBook models are affected by the Fujitsu Battery Exchange Program?
The Fujitsu Battery Exchange Program will only apply to certain batteries installed in the following models shipped in North America:
- LIFEBOOK P1510, P1510D
- LIFEBOOK P7120, P7120D
- LIFEBOOK S7020, S7020D
- LIFEBOOK C1320D
- LIFEBOOK Q2010
- LIFEBOOK T4210*
* A total of thirty-one LifeBook T4210 units were affected in the United States and Canada. These customers have been notified by Fujitsu Computer Systems Corporation.
Please note: Only a limited number of each model are affected by the Fujitsu Battery Replacement Program. Specific units have been identified by their manufacturing codes. Also, this program covers the specified Sony-made battery packs only; the LifeBook notebooks themselves will not be replaced.
Does my notebook have a Sony-made battery which is eligible for replacement?
You need to verify it according to the automated exchange program, which can be found at: http://www.computers.us.fujitsu.com/battery/battery_replacement_info.shtml. In summary, this process entails the following steps:
- Check the model name of your PC.
- If it is an affected model, check the P/N and Lot Number of the installed battery pack.
As a result of these steps, you will either have an affected P/N and Lot Number, or you will not.
- In case of an affected P/N and Lot Number: If your P/N and Lot Number are affected, the battery pack is subject to replacement.
- In case of non-affected P/N or Lot Number: Your battery pack is not eligible for replacement.
Can I get my battery or main system replaced?
If your battery is eligible for the replacement program, you will be able to replace it. We cannot accept any request to replace the main system.
My PC or battery becomes hot. Is that all right? Can Fujitsu check it?
- In case of battery: The battery may become hot when used. If the battery temperature becomes higher than a certain temperature when charged, it is designed to stop charging temporarily to prevent it from becoming too hot.
- In case of PC: If you are concerned about your PC running too hot, please contact our Customer Service at 1-800-8FUJITSU
Can I borrow an alternate PC until battery replacement is done?
No, an alternate cannot be supplied.
How do I remove my battery pack?
For information on removing the battery pack from your system, refer to the system User’s Guide, or click here.
I'm still confused. May I speak to someone about this?
Absolutely. Please call us at 1-800-8FUJITSU.
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