Director of Technical Services, Baka Industries Inc.

The original 15-watt AC power adapters shipped with the first models of PowerBook computers have damaged a number of PowerBooks. When the tip of the plug's plastic insulation becomes chipped, inserting it into a PowerBook - even when it's not plugged into an electrical outlet - can short out the PowerBook's internal fuse. Later power adapter models have a reinforced tip that prevents this damage. Apple has announced a "customer satisfaction program" to replace these original power adapters and any PowerBook fuses or logic boards damaged by this problem.

Only the original model M5140 power adapters, manufactured from August 1991 through September 1992, exhibit this problem, and only these will be replaced under the program. The affected adapters have "Model M5140" printed on their labels, and were shipped with the PowerBook 100, 140, 145, and 170 models. In PowerBook 100s, damaged fuses can simply be replaced. In the other models, the fuses are not replaceable and the logic boards must be exchanged. Apple will offer free out-of-warranty replacements of the fuse or logic board, as appropriate.

Users with these power adapters but without logic board damage may obtain a free replacement power adapter. PowerBook 100 owners will receive a 17-watt adapter, and owners of the other affected PowerBook models will receive a 24-watt adapter. This offer is available only through 29-Sep-95. Apple assures us that the old power adapters are being disposed of in an environmentally sound manner.

If you have one of these power adapters, or if your PowerBook has been damaged by one, bring both (make sure you bring the adapter) to your local Apple service provider. If there isn't one nearby, call Apple's service line at 800/SOS-APPL. If you believe a past repair may have been due to this problem, contact Apple customer assistance at 800/776-2333.