Netgear recalls 240 volt Ethernet adapters over safety issue

Stan Beer
Tuesday, 08 January 2008 06:01

Business IT - Networking

Networking hardware vendor Netgear has announced a recall of its XE103 Powerline Ethernet Adapter made for Europe and other countries, including Australia, which use 220-240 volt power sources. About 82,000 of the adapters have been sold to date and the recall has been initiated becuase of a potential overheating issue.

Results of tests carried out for Netgear on the affected Powerline Ethernet Adapter have shown a potential for a semiconductor integrated circuit within the product to malfunction in 220-240 volt environments, causing the product to stop working and potentially overheat.

Netgear states that it has not received any reports of any personal injury or damage to property caused by this potential malfunction. XE103 Powerline Ethernet Adapters sold in North America or other countries using 100-120 volt power sources are not affected by the recall. However, Netgear advises against deploying them in 220-240 volt environments and is making available a new product label to that effect for existing users. 

“As a company, Netgear is firmly committed to providing consumers with the safest, most reliable home and small business networking solutions possible,” stated Patrick Lo, chairman and chief executive officer of Netgear.

“Although we do not know of any injury or damage caused by the affected Powerline Ethernet Adapter, the safety and satisfaction of our customers remain our top priorities -- as they always have, and will continue to be. This voluntary recall is an example of our dedication to preserving the worldwide reputation of the Netgear brand for outstanding product quality.”

Netgear requests that customers immediately stop all use of the affected Powerline Ethernet Adapter, unplug it from the electrical outlet, and contact Netgear to obtain information as to how to return the device to Netgear and obtain a replacement product.

Customers may obtain information on the recall from Netgear in one of two ways:
•    Customers may call a local toll-free Netgear customer service number: http://kbserver.netgear.com/kb_web_files/n101460.asp
•    Customers may register details via the Internet at: https://my.netgear.com/myNetgear/checkxe103.asp

According to Netgear, it is working with relevant regulatory authorities in affected countries to ensure that this recall process is carried out in an appropriate and effective manner.