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From: jmoulder@post.its.mcw.edu (John Moulder)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.announce,comp.sys.mac.hardware
Subject: PowerPlate PowerBook battery Safety Hazard
Followup-To: comp.sys.mac.hardware
Date: 16 Nov 1994 08:25:46 -0600
Organization: Medical College of Wisconsin
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Reply-To: jmoulder@post.its.mcw.edu (John Moulder)
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Summary: Makers of PowerPlate external batteries say they could leak and should not be used.
Keywords: battery, powerbook, safety, hazard, fire, leakage
Xref: network.ucsd.edu comp.sys.mac.announce:454 comp.sys.mac.hardware:106510

Just received from Technologin, makers of the the PowerPlate line
of external PowerBook battery packs.

The following is a direct quote, but is not the complete text.  If 
appropriate I can provide a complete text of the letter later today.

_Urgent Warning for all PowerPlate Users_

We have determined that there is a possibility that the batteries in your 
PowerPlate may leak electrolyte (dilute sulfuric acid) that could cause 
property damage or injury.

In many cases, the leaking has occurred after the product have been in use 
for several months to over a year.  We recommend that you discontinue using 
your PowerPlate.

If the product leaks acid, discontinue using the product.  Do not touch the 
acid...

_Urgent Warning for PowerPlate Mini3 Users_

If the batteries in a PowerPlate Mini 3 leak, the leaking electrolyte can 
cause a direct short-circuit... causing extreme overheating..[and] damage a 
computer mounded to the PowerPlate... [or] could ignite a fire.  

_You should unplug your PowerPlate Mini3 and stop using it immediately._


Technologin has no resources to fund a recall or refund program...




John Moulder (jmoulder@its.mcw.edu)

.