The recall affects certain Inspiron, Latitude and Precision mobile workstations and XPS units shipped between April 2004 and July 18, 2006.

About 19% of all batteries distributed during this period are affected. Dell has set up a web page with details on how to identify recalled batteries: https://www.dellbatteryprogram.com/

If you have a Dell laptop or notebook computer, you need to find the battery's serial number. The battery is located on the underside of the notebook, in slightly different places depending on the model of the notebook. Shut off the notebook and turn it over. To help identify it, the battery will have a little icon or picture that looks like an AA battery with a lightning bolt. Unlock the battery (method varies) and lift the battery out.

The serial number is located on a white sticker with a bar code. It reads something like JP-3F5132-XXXX-XXX-0123. The key sequence in that serial number is the last five characters of the six-character group, in this case "3F5132".

Compare that five-character sequence to the list of part numbers shown below from Dell's battery recall Web site. 1K055, 3K590, 59474, 6P922, C2603, C5340, C5339, C5446, C6269, C6270, D2961, D5555, D6024, D6025, F2100, F5132, GD785, H3191, JD616, JD617, KD494, M3006, RD857, TD349, U5867,U5882, X5308 X5329 X5332 X5333, X5875 X5877, W5915, Y1333, Y4500, Y5466

If the numbers on your battery match any of the recalled numbers above STOP USING THE BATTERY IMMEDIATELY.

You can continue to use your notebook with an AC power adapter or docking station, but do not use it with a battery listed in the recall program.

A battery whose serial number matches the codes above may need to be replaced. To find out for sure, go to Dell's Web site: https://www.dellbatteryprogram.com/Identify.aspx and enter the battery's entire serial number to find out for sure if your battery is being recalled. That page will also link you to an order form for a new battery and let you know how to send the old battery back to Dell for proper disposal.

Don't throw out old notebook batteries! If you are uncertain about how to remove your notebook computer's battery or have any questions about how to identify a recalled battery, please contact the PC Service center at 442-3679.

Peter Connolly
Associate Director Information Technology Services
LC-15
518-442-3739