Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Magnetic soap could make your next oil spill less oily]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/magnetic-soap-could-make-your-next-oil-spill-less-oily/#comments
Instead of spending millions upon millions to clean up the next oil spill, why don't we just all pitch in and buy some soap? That's basically what researchers at the University of Bristol are proposing, with a new kind of soap that's apparently like no other. This soap, you see, is magnetic, which means it could be easily removed from water without leaving behind any hazardous chemicals -- a potentially major selling point for cleanup crews and environmentalists alike. To create it, the team collected water with chlorine and bromine ions, and used it to dissolve iron particles, creating a metallic core. They proceeded to test their creation by placing the soapy particles within a test tube, underneath layers of water and oil. Much to their delight, they were able to remove the particles with only a magnet, ostensibly providing a template upon which disaster response crews may build.

Magnetic soap could make your next oil spill less oily originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bromidecleanupdisasterenvironmenthazardironmagnetmagnetic soapMagneticSoapmetaloiloil spillOilSpillpaperresearchsoapukuniversity of bristolUniversityOfBristolTue, 24 Jan 2012 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevy Volt safe from fire hazard after all, says government]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/24/chevy-volt-safe-from-fire-hazard-after-all-says-government/#comments The Chevy Volt isn't prone to catching fire after all, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The all-electric car came under scrutiny last year after one caught fire following a side-impact crash test. GM offered a buyback program for Volt owners concerned their cars might suddenly immolate, then the company made "enhancements" to the Volt's battery coolant system. That set things right, as far as the NHTSA is concerned: it says "no discernable defect trend exists" in the Volt, and that GM's revisions "reduce the potential for battery intrusion resulting from side impacts." Chevy dropped the Volt's price by $1,000 for 2012, too. So what do you think? Is a $39,000 starting price and less of a chance of burning to death enough to make you go electric?

Chevy Volt safe from fire hazard after all, says government originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 02:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobatteriesbatterycarcarschevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltChevyChevy VoltChevyVoltelectricelectric carelectric carsElectricCarElectricCarsfirefire hazardFireHazardgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhazardNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationNHTSAsafetyvoltTue, 24 Jan 2012 02:03:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/24/bmw-presents-car-to-x-communication-wants-vehicles-to-talk-more/#comments What good is an Ultimate Driving Machine if it can't get a little help from its friends? A new hazard-dodging system from BMW could help these Bavarian autos get a bit more chatty, each vehicle talking to nearby traffic across long-range wireless networks. In a series of video demonstrations, the car maker shows how the car-to-x system could give advance warnings of traffic, emergency vehicles and weather hazards by enabling one car to beam warnings directly to others. BMW hopes to connect the system to mobile phone networks as latency times improve and possibly even access data from traffic light systems. Sure, GM and Ford got there a bit earlier, but you can see BMW's implementation demonstrated after the break, and check out the via link for more videos of the world's most boring game of GTA.

Continue reading BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video)

BMW presents car-to-x communication, wants vehicles to talk more (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW car-to-xBmwCar-to-xcarcar-to-xcarsdrivingemergency vehicleEmergencyVehiclehazardhazard detectionhazard warningHazardDetectionHazardWarningroad safetyRoadSafetytrafficturningvehicle warning systemVehicleWarningSystemvideowarning systemWarningSystemwireless networkwireless networksWirelessNetworkWirelessNetworksMon, 24 Oct 2011 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphones are dangerous / not dangerous: the WHO changes its mind]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-the-who-changes-its-mind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-the-who-changes-its-mind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/31/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-the-who-changes-its-mind/#commentsTo say that experts generally don't agree about whether cellphone radiation can fry your brain is an understatement of massive proportions, but amazingly enough, the World Health Organization has come to a pseudo-conclusion. A group of 31 scientists from 14 countries working in the org's International Agency for Research on Cancer says that -- based on a survey of the literature -- those electromagnetic fields are as likely to be potentially carcinogenic as 266 other worrisome substances, including DDT pesticide and the exhaust from your automobile. Mind you, the WHO isn't saying that cellphones cause cancer, as today's decision is merely the latest call for more research, but the fact that respected scientists even claim that a correlation should be considered will probably be enough to stir the pot.

Continue reading Cellphones are dangerous / not dangerous: the WHO changes its mind

Cellphones are dangerous / not dangerous: the WHO changes its mind originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 May 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancercancerouscellularcellular radiationCellularRadiationdangerdangeroushazardhazardousnot dangerousNotDangerousradiationWHOworld health organizationWorldHealthOrganizationTue, 31 May 2011 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Foxconn confirms third death from explosion, earlier watchdog report points at aluminum dust (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/foxconn-confirms-third-death-from-explosion-earlier-watchdog-re/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/foxconn-confirms-third-death-from-explosion-earlier-watchdog-re/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/22/foxconn-confirms-third-death-from-explosion-earlier-watchdog-re/#comments Following the tragic explosion at Foxconn's Chengdu plant on Friday, the company has now confirmed to All Things Digital the death of a third employee, with nine remaining in hospital. While investigation is still ongoing, initial findings are pointing at "an explosion of combustible dust in a duct" at one of the polishing workshops, which supports earlier rumors of dust explosion; though there's no confirmation on what caused the ignition just yet.

In related news: two weeks before the fatal accident, watchdog group SACOM released a report on the welfare of workers at the new Chengdu plant. Amongst the uncovering of management issues, excessive working hours, and hazardous environment, PC World highlights complaints from workers about the large amount of aluminum dust -- which is highly explosive -- floating around the polishing department, thus suggesting a lack of proper dust extraction methods within the facility. Foxconn has previously slammed this report, but the outcome of this explosion's investigation should once and for all prove who's telling the truth. For now, though, the priority is to make sure the victims and their families are taken care of.

Full statement from Foxconn after the break.

Update: According to China Times' industry sources, the explosion has only affected some storage facilities and chemical coating lines, though Foxconn president Terry Gou is said to be reallocating some production to his Shenzhen plant as a just-in-case measure.

Continue reading Foxconn confirms third death from explosion, earlier watchdog report points at aluminum dust (updated)

Foxconn confirms third death from explosion, earlier watchdog report points at aluminum dust (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 May 2011 23:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentaluminumaluminum dustAluminumDustAppleassembly lineAssemblyLineChengdu factoryChengduFactoryChinadeathdustdust explosionDustExplosionexplosionFoxconnhazardinvestigationiPadreportSACOMTerry GouTerryGouwelfareSun, 22 May 2011 23:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphones are dangerous / not dangerous: handsets alter brain activity -- scientists don't know what that means]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-handsets-alter-brain-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-handsets-alter-brain-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-handsets-alter-brain-a/#commentsCellphones are bad, mmkay? Or at least that is what many want us to believe, what with all these warning labels and studies telling us that mobile users will end up with brain cancer and kidney damage. Not to mention the dangers of phone addiction -- horror of horrors -- for our youth. Now, the National Institutes of Health have shown that radiation from your phone's antenna turns you into a supergenius increases brain activity. Using positron emission tomography (PET) scans on 47 individuals with a muted phone on each ear (to prevent aural brain stimulation), the study found a seven percent increase in brain activity in the area closest to the phones' antennas when receiving a call. The catch -- scientists don't know "whether this is detrimental or if it could even be beneficial," so don't go trading your Cell-Mate in for a Bluetooth headset just yet.

Cellphones are dangerous / not dangerous: handsets alter brain activity -- scientists don't know what that means originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braincellphonecellphone researchCellphoneResearchcellphonesdangerdangeroushazardhealthmedicalnot dangerousNotDangerousresearchstudyWed, 23 Feb 2011 17:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple ordered to make public iPod nano battery fix in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apple-ordered-to-publish-statement-on-receiving-replacement-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apple-ordered-to-publish-statement-on-receiving-replacement-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apple-ordered-to-publish-statement-on-receiving-replacement-ipod/#comments
 We had an eerie feeling it'd come to this, and come it has. Nearly two full years to the day after the government of Japan began a thorough investigation into the spontaneous combusting of iPod nano devices, that same entity is now mandating that Apple publish an "easy to understand" statement on the web that explains how customers can "receive replacement batteries and obtain advice." So far, these volatile Li-ion cells have been blamed for four cases of minor burns in the Land of the Rising Sun, and while Apple has been replacing first-generation iPod nano batteries since 2008 for those that complained, it seems that Japan wants the company to make the option readily apparent to consumers. Be sure to keep an eye on Apple's Japanese site for more, but as of now, we're not seeing any such PSA posted.

Apple ordered to make public iPod nano battery fix in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleapple ipodAppleIpodbatteryburnschargerchargingexplodingexploding batteryExplodingBatteryexplosionfirefire hazardFireHazardfixgovernmenthazardipodipod nanoIpodNanojapanlithium ionLithiumIonMA004JAma005MA005JAma099MA099JAMA107JAnanooverheatoverheatingportable audioportableaudiorecallsafetyFri, 06 Aug 2010 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Dell Mini 9 suffers meltdown, scorches owner's floor]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/dell-mini-9-suffers-meltdown-scorches-owners-floor/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/dell-mini-9-suffers-meltdown-scorches-owners-floor/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/23/dell-mini-9-suffers-meltdown-scorches-owners-floor/#comments While this isn't quite bad enough to merit a "dude, your Dell is on fire" part deux, it's a pretty frightful example of the hazard modern batteries (of any kind) represent. A Consumerist reader reports that her year-old Dell Mini 9 recently popped, "hissed and sizzled" as it filled her room with smoke and tarnished her fine wooden flooring. Judging from the fallout pictures (available after the break), we'd say the culprit for this Mini fire (oh!) was the battery pack, which again reminds us how badly we need to improve our energy storage technologies. Dell has been quick to remedy the situation with an upgraded laptop being sent over to the young lady and the melted machine packed off to the labs for inspection, though there's no mention of compensation for the owner's scarred floor and mind.

Continue reading Dell Mini 9 suffers meltdown, scorches owner's floor

Dell Mini 9 suffers meltdown, scorches owner's floor originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterydangerdangerousdelldell mini 9DellMini9firehazardlaptopmeltmeltdownmini 9Mini9netbookoverheatoverheatingsafetyWed, 23 Dec 2009 06:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia initiates shocking charger recall program (update: affects 14 million)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/#comments
New Nokia owners take notice: Espoo just launched an "exchange program" for certain Nokia-branded chargers. According to the world's largest handset maker:
"We have determined that the plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger's internal components and potentially posing an electric shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket."
The chargers affected are models AC-3E and AC-3U, manufactured between June 15 and August 9, 2009, and model AC-4U, manufactured between April 13 and October 25, 2009. Fortunately, Nokia provides a website that removes all the guesswork from obtaining your free replacement.

Update: Gulp, looks like we're talking about 14 million defective chargers.

Show full PR text
NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 9, 2009

Nokia initiates charger exchange program

Espoo, Finland - Nokia today initiated a charger exchange program, in which consumers owning certain Nokia-branded chargers manufactured by a third-party supplier are recommended to exchange these chargers for free replacements.

During a routine quality control process, Nokia identified a potential product quality issue with certain chargers manufactured by one of its third-party suppliers. The plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger's internal components and potentially posing an electrical shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket. Nokia is not aware of any incidents or injuries related to these chargers.

Only a limited number of chargers of certain model types manufactured by a single third-party supplier during a specific time period are within the scope of the exchange program. They are the AC-3E and AC-3U models, manufactured between June 15, 2009 and August 9, 2009; and the AC-4U model, manufactured between April 13, 2009 and October 25, 2009.

For more information, including how consumers can check to see if their chargers are part of this exchange program, Nokia has established a website. Consumers are asked to visit http://chargerexchange.nokia.com or their local Nokia website.

Nokia recommends consumers with chargers within the scope of this exchange program to stop using the charger and exchange it for a free replacement.

Filed under: ,

Nokia initiates shocking charger recall program (update: affects 14 million) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerexchangehazardmobilenokiaperipheralsrecallreplacementshockMon, 09 Nov 2009 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia initiates shocking charger recall program (update: affects 14 million)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/09/nokia-initiates-shocking-charger-recall-program/#comments New Nokia owners take notice: Espoo just launched an "exchange program" for certain Nokia-branded chargers. According to the world's largest handset maker:
"We have determined that the plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger's internal components and potentially posing an electric shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket."
The chargers affected are models AC-3E and AC-3U, manufactured between June 15 and August 9, 2009, and model AC-4U, manufactured between April 13 and October 25, 2009. Fortunately, Nokia provides a website that removes all the guesswork from obtaining your free replacement.

Update: Gulp, looks like we're talking about 14 million defective chargers.

Show full PR text
NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 9, 2009

Nokia initiates charger exchange program

Espoo, Finland - Nokia today initiated a charger exchange program, in which consumers owning certain Nokia-branded chargers manufactured by a third-party supplier are recommended to exchange these chargers for free replacements.

During a routine quality control process, Nokia identified a potential product quality issue with certain chargers manufactured by one of its third-party suppliers. The plastic covers of the affected chargers could come loose and separate, exposing the charger's internal components and potentially posing an electrical shock hazard if certain internal components are touched while the charger is plugged into a live socket. Nokia is not aware of any incidents or injuries related to these chargers.

Only a limited number of chargers of certain model types manufactured by a single third-party supplier during a specific time period are within the scope of the exchange program. They are the AC-3E and AC-3U models, manufactured between June 15, 2009 and August 9, 2009; and the AC-4U model, manufactured between April 13, 2009 and October 25, 2009.

For more information, including how consumers can check to see if their chargers are part of this exchange program, Nokia has established a website. Consumers are asked to visit http://chargerexchange.nokia.com or their local Nokia website.

Nokia recommends consumers with chargers within the scope of this exchange program to stop using the charger and exchange it for a free replacement.

Filed under:

Nokia initiates shocking charger recall program (update: affects 14 million) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bydchargerexchangehazardnokiarecallreplacementshockMon, 09 Nov 2009 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW's Emergency Stop Assistant halts your vehicle if you can't]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/08/bmws-emergency-stop-assistant-stops-your-vehicle-if-you-cant/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/08/bmws-emergency-stop-assistant-stops-your-vehicle-if-you-cant/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/08/bmws-emergency-stop-assistant-stops-your-vehicle-if-you-cant/#comments
While it may seem as if BMW and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany just hate seniors, we kind of doubt that's the prevailing mentality behind the admittedly brilliant Emergency Stop Assistant. Said technology is being testing as part of the Smart Senior project, and in theory, it will be able to detect medical emergencies, activate hazard lights and autonomously pull the car over safely if the driver cannot. Of course, we're still anxiously awaiting details on how the system plans on detecting said calamities and figuring out how to pull over without crashing, but one thing's for sure: OnStar just got a lot more outdated.

Filed under:

BMW's Emergency Stop Assistant halts your vehicle if you can't originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWdrivingemergencyEmergency Stop AssistantEmergencyStopAssistantesaeuropehazardhealthmedicalsafetySmart SeniorSmartSeniorvehicleMon, 08 Jun 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Touch Pro battery goes rogue, lights up an otherwise fine pair of pants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/#comments
Just a note to everyone who carries around a spare smartphone Li-ion in their rear pocket: buy thicker underwear. The scene you see above was all caused by an obviously volatile HTC Touch Pro battery, one that the pants-wearer claims is an authentic HTC cell and not a cheap-o alternative from eBay. As the story goes, a foul odor led him to a laundry pile, where he uncovered eight moist socks, a torched battery and a ruined pair of pants. Look, we're glad this guy's okay and all, but seriously, can you imagine what this testy little thing would've done when tossed into the dryer? It's a blessing in disguise, kiddo.

[Via phoneArena]

Filed under: ,

HTC Touch Pro battery goes rogue, lights up an otherwise fine pair of pants originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 May 2009 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery explosionBatteryExplosionburnerexplodingexploding batteryExplodingBatteryexplosionfirefire hazardFireHazardhazardHTCmobileoverheatoverheatingperipheralssmartphonetouchtouch proTouchProThu, 21 May 2009 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Touch Pro battery goes rogue, lights up an otherwise fine pair of pants]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/21/htc-touch-pro-battery-goes-rogue-lights-up-an-otherwise-fine-pa/#comments
Just a note to everyone who carries around a spare smartphone Li-ion in their rear pocket: buy thicker underwear. The scene you see above was all caused by an obviously volatile HTC Touch Pro battery, one that the pants-wearer claims is an authentic HTC cell and not a cheap-o alternative from eBay. As the story goes, a foul odor led him to a laundry pile, where he uncovered eight moist socks, a torched battery and a ruined pair of pants. Look, we're glad this guy's okay and all, but seriously, can you imagine what this testy little thing would've done when tossed into the dryer? It's a blessing in disguise, kiddo.

[Via phoneArena]

Filed under:

HTC Touch Pro battery goes rogue, lights up an otherwise fine pair of pants originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 May 2009 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterybattery explosionBatteryExplosionburnerexplodingexploding batteryExplodingBatteryexplosionfirefire hazardFireHazardhazardHTCoverheatoverheatingsmartphonetouchtouch proTouchProThu, 21 May 2009 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[70,000 HP laptop batteries recalled due to fire hazard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/14/70-000-hp-laptop-batteries-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/14/70-000-hp-laptop-batteries-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/14/70-000-hp-laptop-batteries-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/#comments
It's been quite awhile since we've seen a major recall surrounding volatile laptop batteries, but it looks as if HP is the company bringing the topic back to the forefront. Announced today, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with Hewlett-Packard, has issued a voluntary recall of about 70,000 Li-ion batteries. Reportedly, these cells can "overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers," and so far, the firm and CPSC have received two separate reports of batteries that have overheated and ruptured, resulting in -- wait for it -- "flames / fire that caused minor property damage." For a look at what units are affected, head on past the break -- oh, and if you're reading this on an HP lappie right now, go ahead and grab the fire extinguisher just in case.

Continue reading 70,000 HP laptop batteries recalled due to fire hazard

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70,000 HP laptop batteries recalled due to fire hazard originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 May 2009 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnCanadaCompaqCompaq PresarioCompaqPresariodangerdangerousfirefire hazardFireHazardhazardHewlett-PackardHPHP CompaqHP PavilionHpCompaqHpPavilionoverheatoverheatingPavilionrecallrecalledThu, 14 May 2009 15:13:00 EST<![CDATA[LG recalls 30,000 830 Spyder handsets for crappy 911 connections]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/02/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/02/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/02/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/#comments
While things like copy and paste, multimedia messaging and video calling are nice extras to have, there's really only one thing that's most important when it comes to a reliable cellphone: the 911 functionality. Evidently, around 30,000 LG 830 Spyder handsets aren't having the easiest time dialing for help, with a product recall noting that a huge swath of 'em have "difficulty sustaining a connection or have poor voice quality on calls to emergency 911." It should be noted, however, that LG's actually being really, really proactive here, as it has only received a single report (and no injuries) to date. The Spyder phones affected have software versions T83LGV03 and T83LGV04, and you can hit the read link if you suspect yours is amongst that 30,000.

[Via textually]

Filed under: ,

LG recalls 30,000 830 Spyder handsets for crappy 911 connections originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>830830 Spyder830Spyder911dangerousemergencyfirehazardLGlg 830Lg830mobilerecallrecalledSpyderMon, 02 Mar 2009 00:28:00 EST<![CDATA[LG recalls 30,000 830 Spyder handsets for crappy 911 connections]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/01/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/01/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/01/lg-recalls-30-000-830-spyder-handsets-for-crappy-911-connections/#comments
While things like copy and paste, multimedia messaging and video calling are nice extras to have, there's really only one thing that's most important when it comes to a reliable cellphone: the 911 functionality. Evidently, around 30,000 LG 830 Spyder handsets aren't having the easiest time dialing for help, with a product recall noting that a huge swath of 'em have "difficulty sustaining a connection or have poor voice quality on calls to emergency 911." It should be noted, however, that LG's actually being really, really proactive here, as it has only received a single report (and no injuries) to date. The Spyder phones affected have software versions T83LGV03 and T83LGV04, and you can hit the read link if you suspect yours is amongst that 30,000.

[Via textually]

Filed under:

LG recalls 30,000 830 Spyder handsets for crappy 911 connections originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>830830 Spyder830Spyder911dangerousemergencyfirehazardLGlg 830Lg830recallrecalledSpyderSun, 01 Mar 2009 11:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphones are dangerous/not dangerous, watch your kidneys edition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/29/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-watch-your-kidneys-editi/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/29/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-watch-your-kidneys-editi/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/29/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-watch-your-kidneys-editi/#comments
Believe it or not, this latest study on how cell phones are killing you doesn't invoke the dreaded c-word. Instead, scientists at the European Research Institute for Electronic Components in Bucharest found that exposing red blood cells to low-level radiation -- lower than what emanates from your mobile buddy, apparently -- caused them to leak hemoglobin, which they say can lead to kidney damage and heart disease. The Federation of the Electronics Industry have already come out swinging, saying there is still no consistent evidence the mobile devices are physically hurting us. If history tells us anything, expect to see a report in the near future on how inconclusive these findings are, followed by separate findings on how beneficial a healthy kick of radiation to the kidneys can be.

[Via textually]

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Cellphones are dangerous/not dangerous, watch your kidneys edition originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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HM Revenue & Customs has put out an official report warning that "hundreds of imported counterfeit game consoles seized at UK freight depots were found to have been supplied with potentially dangerous power adapters." Most of the wares had been purchased at a deep discount from Asian websites claiming to sell "genuine Nintendo products" for over 50% off. The Big N has already stepped in to confirm that the DS / DS Lites are indeed counterfeit, and the accompanying power adapters were also deemed "potentially dangerous, since they had not been electronically tested and do not meet strict UK safety standards." C'mon parents -- even if the youngin' has been bad, we'd still say coal is more fitting than a stocking full of potential electrocution.

[Via Pocket-lint, image courtesy of Infendo]

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UK warns that fake imported DS handhelds could be hazardous originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac adapterAcAdapterChristmascustomsdangerousdsds liteDsLitefakefiregaming handheldGamingHandheldhazardholidazeimportknockoffnintendopower adapterPowerAdapterripoffukFri, 05 Dec 2008 08:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphones are dangerous/not dangerous: leaky fillings edition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-leaky-fillings-edition/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-leaky-fillings-edition/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/17/cellphones-are-dangerous-not-dangerous-leaky-fillings-edition/#commentsWe're not even going to pretend we fully grasp what's going on here, but the long and short of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences' latest findings are that cellphones can trigger the release of mercury from one's fillings. Yes, seriously. The study asserts that out of 14 test subjects with fillings, those who used mobile phones had a statistically significant increase of mercury from urine tests than those who refrained from yapping. The science behind all of this is far beyond our IQ levels, but we're a little freaked out/not freaked out, regardless.

[Via textually]

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Cellphones are dangerous/not dangerous: leaky fillings edition originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Recalled: 35,000 volatile Sony batteries in Dell / HP / Toshiba laptops originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Performance Designed Products' Rage Wireless Guitar isn't the most well known Guitar Hero peripheral out there, but that's apt to change in a hurry after this. Said instrument has just been recalled after the company received a single report of a burn after the user self-pwnt him / herself by installing the AA batteries incorrectly. Apparently the circuit board within the axe is "defective" in such a way that it causes cells to leak if they are inserted in an incorrect manner, and thus, it poses a risk of chemical burn to the rocker handling it. Interestingly, consumers who own one are instructed to return the thing to the original place of purchase rather than PDP itself, so we'd recommend wrapping your arm in gauze and printing out the read link to help your case if you've trashed the receipt.

[Via SlipperyBrick]

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Rage Wireless Guitars recalled, chemical burns deemed too emo originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Way back in 2005, we got wind of a Bluetooth-based telematics systems for cars dubbed Carwings. Now, Nissan is gearing up to launch two safety pilots which will rely on -- you guessed it -- Carwings HDD navigation systems. First up is the slip-hazard alert, which marries data from the ITS (Intelligent Transport System) and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) in order to warn drivers of slippery road conditions. In addition to that, the recently concocted road-cam service can "enhance the effectiveness of the alert service by offering drivers a visual image" of surroundings. The company will make the slip-hazard alert and the new road-cam service available to all Carwings customers (in Japan) beginning next month, with the latter hitting first (in November) and the former second (in December). Oh, and did we mention the upgrades will be completely gratis? Because they will be.

[Via Wired]

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Nissan readies pilot for road-cam / slip-hazard alert services originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>absautomakercarwingshazardnissanpilotroad camroad-camRoadCamsafetysliptestTue, 21 Oct 2008 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[MIT gurus dream up self-sustaining sensor network for preventing forest fires]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/mit-gurus-dream-up-self-sustaining-sensor-network-for-preventing/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/mit-gurus-dream-up-self-sustaining-sensor-network-for-preventing/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/mit-gurus-dream-up-self-sustaining-sensor-network-for-preventing/#comments
Thanks, MIT. Why don't you just make the rest of the world feel a little more useless. Every week or so, we're forced to stare at yet another amazing invention coming from your doors; to be frank, it's just downright unfair. All childish angst aside, the latest idea to come from the institution is one that could certainly be put to good use: a self-sustaining sensor network that taps into trees for power in order to continuously monitor forests for threats of fire. Moreover, the concept could be applied in other scenarios as well -- to detect potential threats such as smuggled contraband along a nation's borders, perhaps. Testing of the wireless sensor network (developed by the appropriately named Voltree Power) is scheduled to begin next spring, and we're hearing that pot-sniffing turtles may even be brought in to create a completely natural self-policing environment.

[Via Inhabitat]

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MIT gurus dream up self-sustaining sensor network for preventing forest fires originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eco-friendlyenvironmentfireforest fireforest firesForestFireForestFiresgreenhazardmitsensorsensor networkSensorNetworksensorstreeuniversityVoltree PowerVoltreePowerFri, 26 Sep 2008 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Did you cheap out on a TV stand? It probably just got recalled.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/24/did-you-cheap-out-on-a-tv-stand-it-probably-just-got-recalled/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/24/did-you-cheap-out-on-a-tv-stand-it-probably-just-got-recalled/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/24/did-you-cheap-out-on-a-tv-stand-it-probably-just-got-recalled/#comments
Let's be honest -- after sinking a few large on a new HDTV, a few hundies on some overpriced cables and even more on HD programming, you weren't about to cough up another month's paycheck for a decent TV stand. For the 48,600 customers out there who purchased one of four different King Pao Enterprise TV Stands (likely sold and distributed by Studio RTA), you now have a product known for tipping over and ruining lives. The E Series, Fierro, Madison DLP and Madison 3000 -- all of which were sold at Best Buy and other big box retailers from May 2004 to August 2008 -- have been deemed unstable and unfit for use in your living room, and it's suggested that you cautiously remove your set and wait for a "repair kit" before it does the removing for you. Godspeed.

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Did you cheap out on a TV stand? It probably just got recalled. originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Let's be honest -- after sinking a few large on a new HDTV, a few hundies on some overpriced cables and even more on HD programming, you weren't about to cough up another month's paycheck for a decent TV stand. For the 48,600 customers out there who purchased one of four different King Pao Enterprise TV Stands (likely sold and distributed by Studio RTA), you now have a product known for tipping over and ruining lives. The E Series, Fierro, Madison DLP and Madison 3000 -- all of which were sold at Best Buy and other big box retailers from May 2004 to August 2008 -- have been deemed unstable and unfit for use in your living room, and it's suggested that you cautiously remove your set and wait for a "repair kit" before it does the removing for you. Godspeed.

Filed under: , ,

Did you cheap out on a TV stand? It probably just got recalled. originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best buyBestBuychinachinesedangerfurniturehazardhdtvKing Pao EnterpriseKingPaoEnterpriserecallsafetyStudio RTAStudioRtaTV StandTV StandsTvStandTvStandsWed, 24 Sep 2008 15:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Cellphone charger blamed for blaze in Delaware]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/02/cellphone-charger-blamed-for-blaze-in-delaware/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/02/cellphone-charger-blamed-for-blaze-in-delaware/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/02/cellphone-charger-blamed-for-blaze-in-delaware/#comments
Details on this one are remarkably skimpy, but here are the facts as we know them. A fire caused around $30,000 worth of damage to a mobile home in Delaware this past week, but thankfully, the Millsboro and Indian River firefighters found no one home at the time of the incident. The culprit? A "malfunctioning cellphone charger that ignited the wall covering in a bedroom." That's it, folks -- no manufacturer, no brand name, nothing. In other words, unplug your chargers when you leave the house... or store your home in a fireproof safe, either one.

[Thanks, Carl]

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Cellphone charger blamed for blaze in Delaware originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Details on this one are remarkably skimpy, but here are the facts as we know them. A fire caused around $30,000 worth of damage to a mobile home in Delaware this past week, but thankfully, the Millsboro and Indian River firefighters found no one home at the time of the incident. The culprit? A "malfunctioning cellphone charger that ignited the wall covering in a bedroom." That's it, folks -- no manufacturer, no brand name, nothing. In other words, unplug your chargers when you leave the house... or store your home in a fireproof safe, either one.

[Thanks, Carl]

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Cellphone charger blamed for blaze in Delaware originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hey you. Yeah, you. You're about to beam that resume facsimile-style to a prospective employer, aren't you? If said machine is a Hewlett-Packard Fax 1010 or 1010xi, we're recommend firing (ahem) it over through email instead. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with HP, has issued a voluntary recall for the aforementioned fax machines after receiving three reports of "overheating," two of which resulted in "minor property damage." If you just so happen to own one of these machines, and you'd prefer your abode not be burned to the ground anytime soon, we'd suggest following the read link and applying for your rebate. After you unplug the machine and shove it in the freeze, of course.

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HP fax machines recalled, could turn resume into flames originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1010xifaxFax 1010fax machineFax1010FaxMachinefirefire hazardFireHazardhazardHewlett-PackardhprecallFri, 27 Jun 2008 18:42:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod nano sparks bedroom fire, no humans harmed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/08/ipod-nano-sparks-bedroom-fire-no-humans-harmed/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/08/ipod-nano-sparks-bedroom-fire-no-humans-harmed/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/08/ipod-nano-sparks-bedroom-fire-no-humans-harmed/#comments
Oddly enough, this isn't the first time we've seen a product proudly designed in Cupertino erupt, but it's pretty safe to say this story could have had a much more tragic ending. Reportedly, an iPod nano owner recently awoke to a blaring fire alarm around 2:00AM, only to find his beloved PMP wrapped in flames on the bedroom floor. Thankfully, the fire was tiny enough to be extinguished without any major trouble, and no substantial damage of property or human flesh was tallied. As of now, we've no idea if the unit simply exploded or if surrounding circumstances are at least partly to blame, but you can bet your bottom dollar that be sleeping with one eye open (and on our media players) tonight.

[Thanks, Sandy]

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iPod nano sparks bedroom fire, no humans harmed originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 08 Mar 2008 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>explosionfirehazardipodipod nanoIpodNanomishapnanoportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoproblemSat, 08 Mar 2008 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung P10 laptop battery "melts" in South Korea]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/24/samsung-p10-laptop-battery-melts-in-south-korea/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/24/samsung-p10-laptop-battery-melts-in-south-korea/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/24/samsung-p10-laptop-battery-melts-in-south-korea/#commentsMerely days after LG put the brakes on sales of its Z1-AE007 laptop due to suspicions of a faulty battery within, yet another lappie in South Korea is making headlines for its overheating, er, abilities. Reportedly, the battery in a P10 computer, produced in 2002, "melted" after inexplicably emitting smoke during use. The device managed to burn a bed and a certain part of the floor, but thankfully, no "big fire" was started. According to company spokesman James Chung, Samsung is now "checking details of the incident," but the actual manufacturer of said battery has yet to be revealed.

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Samsung P10 laptop battery "melts" in South Korea originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 21:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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[Via TheInquirer]

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Tektronix oscilloscopes could catch fire due to volatile Li-ion originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Oct 2007 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryexplodeexploding batteryExplodingBatteryexplosionexpolodingfirehazardli-ionoscilloscopeoscilloscopesTDS 3000BTds3000bTDS3BATBTektronixTEXTRONIXTue, 16 Oct 2007 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[MummyWrap fends off radiation from fetuses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/#commentsAs the ongoing battle between the naysayers and the paranoid continues, Neil Bullock is making sure that those situated squarely in the latter camp have a way to "protect" their unborn child(ren). MummyWrap is a "sleeveless, loose-fitting garment for pregnant women made from a light-weight copper-based cotton fabric known as Swiss Shield," and according to its creator, it can "minimize the risk of electro-magnetic radiation (EMR)" warping your kid's brain before he or she ever sees the world. 'Course, we're not going to step in and suggest that you do / don't need this, but for those who'd rather be safe than sorry, you can order one now for $69.95. As an added bonus, it should go great with your Isabodywear underwear.

[Via Textually]

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MummyWrap fends off radiation from fetuses originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babychilddangerourelectro-smogemrharmfulhazardmedicalmummywrapsradiationraysTue, 02 Oct 2007 00:06:00 EST<![CDATA[MummyWrap fends off radiation from fetuses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/02/mummywrap-fends-off-radiation-from-fetuses/#commentsAs the ongoing battle between the naysayers and the paranoid continues, Neil Bullock is making sure that those situated squarely in the latter camp have a way to "protect" their unborn child(ren). MummyWrap is a "sleeveless, loose-fitting garment for pregnant women made from a light-weight copper-based cotton fabric known as Swiss Shield," and according to its creator, it can "minimize the risk of electro-magnetic radiation (EMR)" warping your kid's brain before he or she ever sees the world. 'Course, we're not going to step in and suggest that you do / don't need this, but for those who'd rather be safe than sorry, you can order one now for $69.95. As an added bonus, it should go great with your Isabodywear underwear.

[Via Textually]

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MummyWrap fends off radiation from fetuses originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Oct 2007 00:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babychildCulturedangerourelectro-smogemrharmfulhazardmedicalmobilemummywrapsradiationraysTue, 02 Oct 2007 00:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba to replace recalled AC adapters on portable DVD players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/toshiba-to-replace-recalled-ac-adapters-on-portable-dvd-players/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/toshiba-to-replace-recalled-ac-adapters-on-portable-dvd-players/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/20/toshiba-to-replace-recalled-ac-adapters-on-portable-dvd-players/#commentsIf you're the proud owner of an SD-P1600 or SD-P1610 portable DVD player, and you've yet to experience any sort of unusual issues, listen up. According to Toshiba, four cases of overheating have been recorded in Japan, and although no injuries have occurred, the firm is suggesting that you yank the AC adapter and swap it for a new one. Reportedly, the outfit sold around 328,000 of the units during its manufacturing run from February 2005 to January 2006, so if you've got one of 'em (and still use it), be sure and take advantage of the free replacement.

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Toshiba to replace recalled AC adapters on portable DVD players originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 08:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dvddvd playerDvdPlayerfirehazardjapanoverheatingportable dvd playerPortableDvdPlayerrecallSD-P1600SD-P1610toshibaThu, 20 Sep 2007 08:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Non-recalled Nokia phone battery explodes, injures woman]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/#commentsWhile Nokia and Matsushita were busying settling the disputes that arose when the phone maker had to recall some 46 million handset batteries, a lady in India has been injured by a Nokia-branded cell that's not on that list. Located in eastern India, the woman noted that the BL-D3 series battery "blew up about 10 minutes after it was put on charge," resulting in a "ball of fire" that led to minor burn injuries to the user. According to Nokia, the incident was "isolated," and if it finds that the handset, battery, and charger are original, the 30-year old victim will supposedly be compensated.

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Non-recalled Nokia phone battery explodes, injures woman originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentbatteriesbatteryBL-D3explodeexplodedexplosionfirehazardMatsushitamishapnokiaMon, 03 Sep 2007 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Non-recalled Nokia phone battery explodes, injures woman]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/03/non-recalled-nokia-phone-battery-explodes-injures-woman/#commentsWhile Nokia and Matsushita were busying settling the disputes that arose when the phone maker had to recall some 46 million handset batteries, a lady in India has been injured by a Nokia-branded cell that's not on that list. Located in eastern India, the woman noted that the BL-D3 series battery "blew up about 10 minutes after it was put on charge," resulting in a "ball of fire" that led to minor burn injuries to the user. According to Nokia, the incident was "isolated," and if it finds that the handset, battery, and charger are original, the 30-year old victim will supposedly be compensated.

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Non-recalled Nokia phone battery explodes, injures woman originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentbatteriesbatteryexplodeexplodedexplodingexplosionfirehazardMatsushitamishapmobilenokiaperipheralsMon, 03 Sep 2007 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Shindaiwa backpack blowers recalled due to fire hazard]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/24/shindaiwa-backpack-blowers-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/24/shindaiwa-backpack-blowers-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/24/shindaiwa-backpack-blowers-recalled-due-to-fire-hazard/#comments
As the wave of recalls continue to flow in, a pair of backpack blowers from Shindaiwa look to be claiming next. Reportedly, the "muffler's outer shell can melt, allowing exhaust gas to exit from the bottom or back side of the muffler." Consequently, the "exhaust gas may cause damage to the fuel tank creating a possible fire hazard for the user." To date, the outfit is only aware of a single incident where "a small muffler fire was involved," but no humans were maimed and no property was marred. Still, if you're the owner of an EB630 or EB630RT, we'd recommend getting set up with a free muffler replacement before firing that bad boy back up again.

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Shindaiwa backpack blowers recalled due to fire hazard originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backpackbackpack blowersBackpackBlowersEB630EB630RTfirefire hazardFireHazardhazardjapanmufflerrecallSafetyShindaiwaFri, 24 Aug 2007 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[HP ridicules Queensland study linking laser printer particles to potential health issues]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/hp-ridicules-queensland-study-linking-laser-printer-particles-to/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/hp-ridicules-queensland-study-linking-laser-printer-particles-to/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/03/hp-ridicules-queensland-study-linking-laser-printer-particles-to/#commentsOh noes, that study claiming that laser printer particles are dangerous is shaping up to be just as contentious as those studies proving that cellphones are/aren't dangerous. As you'll recall, the Queensland University study tested 62 "relatively new" laser printers from Canon, HP, and Toshiba and found 17 to be "high emitters" of potentially dangerous, ultra-fine toner particles. Of these, all but one (a Toshiba model) were manufactured by HP. As you'd expect, HP has issued a formal response courtesy of Tuan Tran, HP's vice president of marketing for supplies. Perhaps predictably after such a damning report, HP's response can be summarized as an attempt to both discredit and mock the research while standing behind the safety of their products. Tuan first ridicules the study by stating "the nature and chemical composition of such particles - whether from a laser printer or from a toaster - cannot be accurately characterized by analytical technology." He goes on to say that, "Testing of ultrafine particles is a very new scientific discipline. There are no indications that ultrafine particle (UFP) emissions from laser printing systems are associated with special health risks." HP does agree with the study's assessment that "more testing in this area is needed" and claims to be actively engaged in the process. Since HP's statement came our way via a PR agency and not HP's official news site, we offer you their complete response after the break. While it's tempting to label HP the Big Tobacco of the printer business, don't; it's far too early to jump to such conclusions. Still, with a press release like this, they're not making it easy on anyone.

Continue reading HP ridicules Queensland study linking laser printer particles to potential health issues

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HP ridicules Queensland study linking laser printer particles to potential health issues originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dangeroushazardhealthhplaser printerLaserPrinterprinterprinter particlesPrinterParticlesqueensland universityQueensland University of TechnologyQueenslandUniversityQueenslandUniversityOfTechnologystudytuan tranTuanTranFri, 03 Aug 2007 08:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Laser printer particles as dangerous as cigarette smoke?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/31/laser-printer-particles-as-dangerous-as-cigarette-smoke/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/31/laser-printer-particles-as-dangerous-as-cigarette-smoke/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/31/laser-printer-particles-as-dangerous-as-cigarette-smoke/#commentsIn today's edition of How Your Office is Slowly Killing You, a study emerging from Queensland University of Technology suggests that laser printers can emit clouds of ultra-fine particles that compare to "cigarette smoke and motor vehicle emissions." Reportedly, 13 out of 40 models tested were deemed "high emitters" of particles from the toner, and while office photocopiers failed to produce similar results, concentrations of microscopic particles near laser printers were found to be "five times higher than outdoor levels often produced by traffic" in a given investigation. Currently, no efforts have been made to actually study the chemistry of the emissions, but considering that such fine objects could easily sink "to the very lowest reaches of the lungs," we'd say that's reason enough to request an airtight office a few floors underground.

[Image courtesy of Gripguard]

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Laser printer particles as dangerous as cigarette smoke? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacigarettedangeroushazardhealthprinterqueenslandQueensland University of TechnologyQueenslandUniversityOfTechnologystudyTue, 31 Jul 2007 17:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba waves the recall flag again on Sony laptop batteries]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/19/toshiba-waves-the-recall-flag-again-on-sony-laptop-batteries/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/19/toshiba-waves-the-recall-flag-again-on-sony-laptop-batteries/http://www.engadget.com/2007/07/19/toshiba-waves-the-recall-flag-again-on-sony-laptop-batteries/#commentsGroundhog's Day ain't got nothing on this. Yet again, we're faced with another recall on potentially defective laptop batteries, and yet again, these cells in question could catch fire when you least expect it. The latest round of recalls by Toshiba allows for some 10,000 Sony-made batteries to be replaced after a trio of fire incidents over the past ten months got its attention. Of course, Sony noted that the financial impact of this wave should be minor, particularly compared to the recall-related costs it's already trying to swallow.

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Toshiba waves the recall flag again on Sony laptop batteries originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatterydefectiveexploding batteriesExplodingBatteriesexplosiveexplosive batteriesExplosiveBatteriesfirefire hazardFireHazardhazardoverheatoverheatingrecallsonytoshibaThu, 19 Jul 2007 11:19:00 EST