The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·83071·Announced 1983-03-01

Texas Instruments Recalls TI 99/4A Computer Transformers for Shock Hazard

Texas Instruments is providing free adapters to correct a potential defect in transformers for the TI 99/4A computer that could cause a shock hazard.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (shock hazard) where injury has not yet been reported, which corresponds to a score of 3 (High) per the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Texas Instruments is conducting a voluntary program to provide transformer adapters free of charge to correct a potential defect in one model of the transformers supplied with the Texas Instruments 99/4A home computer. Over four hundred thousand transformer units are involved. The transformer is the small black box which plugs in between the computer and the electrical outlet.

Laboratory testing revealed a remote possibility that a failure of the transformer could result in certain metal parts of the computer console becoming electrified, presenting a possible shock hazard. Neither the Consumer Product Safety Commission nor Texas Instruments has received any report of hazardous incident or injury from the hundreds of thousands of Texas Instruments home computers in use.

All owners of the 99/4A known to the company through rebate cards or warranty cards will receive the adapters automatically by mail. Owners who are not sure their names and addresses are in the company's files should call the Texas Instruments toll-free numbers to request the adapter. Prior to receipt and installation of the adapter, consumers are advised to unplug and discontinue using the computer if any sign of transformer overheating, unusual odor, or computer malfunction occurs.

The recalled product

Product
Adapters For TI 99/4A Computer Provided by Texas Instruments
Manufacturer
Texas Instruments
Category
Consumer Product — Computer Equipment
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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