HP digital camera recalled over fire risk

By Mary Mitchell

Published on June 09, 2006

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) received a report of one of the cameras catching fire while plugged into its docking station. No injuries were reported. The cameras have been sold since August 2004 in the U.S. for about $250–$400. About 670,000 of the 5.1 megapixel Photosmart R707s have been sold around the world at electronics and camera outlets and online.

The CSPC warned that consumers should stop using single-use, non-rechargeable batteries (including the Duracell CP-1) with the recalled camera.

It should be noted that although a "recall" has been issued, Hewlett-Packard isn't asking customers to return the cameras; instead consumers are advised to contact HP for a firmware update that will keep the camera from applying an electrical charge to a non-rechargeable battery. This update can be downloaded from HP's website at www.hp.com/go/r707safetyupdate, or the company can be contacted at (866) 304-7117. HP states that the update won't affect the battery life or charging time.

The company also advises all of the camera's owners to apply the update even if they don't use non-rechargeable batteries — in case a family member or friend accidentally uses single-use batteries in the camera.

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