Microsoft said Thursday that it would recall 14.1 million Xbox power cords after a discovering that a defect in those cords gave some users minor burns or carpet damage. The recall involves Xboxes manufactured before October 23, 2003 in all worldwide regions besides continental Europe. In continental Europe, the recall affects Xboxes manufactured before January 13, 2004. Xboxes made since then have been changed and don't exhibit this problem, Microsoft says.
"This is a preventative step we're choosing to take despite the rarity of these incidents," said Robbie Bach, the senior vice president of the Home & Entertainment Division at Microsoft. "We regret the inconvenience, but believe offering consumers a free replacement is the responsible thing to do." According to Microsoft, 1 in 1000 Xbox units made during the affected time period exhibit a problem related to the recall.
To order a replacement Xbox power cord, visit the Microsoft Xbox Web site and follow the link titled "Important Safety Notice: Power Cord Replacement for Xbox." The site requires you to enter your Xbox's serial number and manufacturing date, which are found on sticker on the bottom of the unit. Microsoft says that the replacement power cords should arrive in 2 to 4 weeks.
