Microsoft Recalls 2.25M Surface Pro Power Adapters Over Fire Risks

Microsoft's Surface devices may be some of the best tablet options available, but the company is still issuing a recall in the US over concerns the AC power adapters that shipped with some Surface Pro models pose risks of fire and electric shock. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission said on Tuesday that roughly 2.25 million power cords were involved, all having been sold before March 15th, 2015 with the Surface Pro, Surface Pro 2, and Surface Pro 3 models.

The commission added that any AC power cords sold individually as accessories before March 15th, 2015 were also included in the recall, and that some 190,000 units were sold in Canada. Microsoft will of course be offering free replacements for affected users.

Just last month Microsoft issued a voluntary recall over the same issues, which involves power cords that do not have a 1/8-inch protective sleeve on the end that plugs into the power supply. The company has set up a support site where users can request a replacement power cord, promising to have them arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

Microsoft has said the risk of injury is minimal, but disclosed that it received 56 reports of the AC power cords overheating and catching fire, along with five instances of electric shock reported. While the recall applies to the first three generations of the Surface Pro power cord, users with the Surface RT, Surface Book, Surface 2, Surface 3, and Surface 4 don't need to be concerned.

VIA PC World