|
Asustek cautions against using non-certified EeePC batteries following reports of explosion in China |
|
|
|
Monica Chen, Taipei; Joseph Tsai, DIGITIMES [Wednesday 7 May 2008]
Asustek Computer has cautioned consumers against using third-party batteries
with its Eee PCs, and warns that it will not cover hardware damage due to
the use of a non-certified battery under warranty. This follows a recent,
unsubstantiated, report that a third-party battery exploded in China.
Second- and third-tier battery makers in China have begun to manufacture
batteries designed to be used with the Eee PC. Some vendors are offering
batteries with capacities up to 10,400mAh, which can support up to 5.5 hours
of usage, priced around 500-600 RMB (US$71-86), according to channel
vendors.
However, reports claim that one of these "high-capacity" batteries recently
overheated during charging, and eventually exploded causing damage to the
Eee PC. According to the reports, Asustek has refused to repair the PC, but
Asustek has denied knowledge of the damage, while stressing that in such an
event, any needed repairs that were the result of using non-certified
batteries would not be covered by the company's warranty.
The China-based vendor said to have sold the 10,400mAh battery has also
refuted that its product caused the damage. The company commented that its
batteries are in increasingly high demand, and as such rival companies have
started the rumor in order to hurt its sales.
|
