The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·98014·Announced 1997-10-21

Dell Recalls Latitude LM AC Adapters Due to Shock Hazard

Dell is recalling approximately 233,000 AC adapters for Latitude LM computers and port replicators because connector pins can break off, posing an electric 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 (electric shock) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Dell Computer Corp. is voluntarily recalling approximately 233,000 AC adapters supplied with its Latitude LM notebook computers and Latitude LM port replicators in the United States, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The company is also recalling these adapters throughout the world. The port replicator is a docking station used to connect the notebook computer to an external monitor and keyboard.

The hazard exists because the AC adapter's connector pins can break off from the adapter and remain in the power cord, posing a shock hazard. Dell has received 111 reports of the adapters' connector pins breaking off, but no injuries have been reported. These black AC adapters are 4 inches long by 2.25 inches wide and have one attached cord and one detachable power cord. The bottom of the adapter is labeled in part, "DELL...MADE IN TAIWAN." The adapters can be identified because the first eight digits of the "DP/N" bar code on the bottom are "00097689" or "00099500." Only versions of the "00099500" adapters with "A00, A01, A02, or A03" at the far right of the bar code are subject to this recall.

Dell sold these AC adapters with the Latitude LM notebook computers and port replicators from June 1996 to October 1997 through its direct sales force, Internet ordering site, and toll-free number. The adapters were also sold separately for about $39. Consumers should stop using these AC adapters immediately and contact Dell to receive a free replacement adapter and instructions for the safe use of the computer. Latitude notebook computers and port replicators are not included in this recall.

The recalled product

Product
Dell Latitude LM notebook computer AC adapters
Manufacturer
Dell
Category
Consumer Product — Computer Accessories
Hazard

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · electric shock

See all →