My Dell blew up too
By The Letterman: Tuesday 04 July 2006, 11:45
SUBJECT: Exploding Dell Laptop
I'm hoping this reaches the right person. I'd like to share MY story. In late 2005, I purchased a Dell Inspiron 1150 (Which, from the photos on the page, looks like the 1150/5150 series laptop).
In February 2006, my laptop started to smoke and catch fire in my bedroom, under normal use. I contacted Dell, and they requested the laptop be sent in immediately, and a replacement would be issued.
I was told by a manager at Dell's Repair Center that the fault started on the system board, and had caused the smoke and fire. I was not released any further details, and any questions I asked were either brushed off or instructed at Dell's coprate office, in Texas.
After about 3 months, with another 1150 (The replacement), it too started the same problems I was having just before unit #1 caught fire. It was locking up constantly, and certain things on the laptop would not work. I contacted Dell that evening, and at 230am EST, the laptop began to emit smoke.
This time, I didn't have the battery in, and was able to unplug it quickly. I opened the bottom RAM door, and to my non-suprise, the RAM was covered in something I can only describe as burnt material residue and smoke residue. The metal cover inside of the door was also covered in a black film of burnt something. Again, Dell requested the laptop be sent in immediately, and 2 weeks later, the same process started. A fire occured on the system board, and no further information would be released to me.
I will NEVER own a Dell proudct again, for fear of my safety, and to see yet another laptop in flames? Another laptop that appears the same as mine? Why isn't Dell recalling the laptop, as any ethical company would? Just my two cents. Love the site, thanks for bringing us the best technology news around!
Rich S.
Pittsburgh
IT Administrator
Dell customer suport is Shit, i got first hand experience.
Dell's nearest service agent is at Penang i heard?
