Acer recalls overheating Aspire notebooks

Certain models affected by faulty microphone cable

Acer has begun a voluntary recall of certain Aspire models

Acer is recalling some of its Aspire notebooks after reports of overheating. The hardware manufacturer has made clear that it has not been ordered to carry out the recall by any government agency as yet.

The affected units are Acer Aspire models AS3410, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG manufactured prior to 15 September 2009.

The problem appears to be an overheating microphone cable when extreme pressure is applied repeatedly to the left palm rest. This reportedly causes the case to become deformed and the system to malfunction.

Acer said that it will replace the microphone cable in the affected units to eliminate any risk of overheating.

The company is asking people who own any Acer Aspire notebook to visit its customer care web site and tap in the serial number of their machine to see whether it is affected and needs to be serviced.