Rear Projection Televisions recall 03-544

CPSC recall 03-544, announced July 3, 2003, covers Rear Projection Televisions (3,400 units). If the capacitors short circuit, due to a very high electrical surge, such as from a lightening strike, the metal parts on the television could present a shock or electrocution hazard. The notice reports no incidents. Toshiba has contacted many of the owners of the affected televisions. Recall contact: call (877) 290-6064, or go to www.csd.toshiba.com/cgi-bin/tais/support/jsp/navShell.jsp?cf=Consumer_Notices.

What to check on the product label

Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.

Affected model numbers

50A6251H8357H83

Additional identifying details

Check the product label for these CPSC-listed model numbers: 50A62, 51H83, 57H83.

Which products are included?

This program includes a limited number of units of the following Toshiba rear projection televisions: Model 50A62, Model 51H83, and Model 57H83. To determine if your television set is affected by this corrective action, go to www.tacp.toshiba.com/safety_notice.asp and follow the instructions.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

What to look for

Model numbers: 3 listed. Yours must match one exactly.
When sold: April 2003 through May 2003
Price paid: $999 to $2,200

Why it was recalled

If the capacitors short circuit, due to a very high electrical surge, such as from a lightening strike, the metal parts on the television could present a shock or electrocution hazard. In addition, the metal jacks on the back of the television or another metal box attached to the television could present a shock or electrocution hazard, as a result of the capacitors' failure.

Incidents and injuries

None reported.

Official remedy

Toshiba has contacted many of the owners of the affected televisions. However, if you have not been contacted, please contact Toshiba. Consumers who have an affected television will receive a free replacement, which includes removal of the recalled television, delivery and installation of the replacement.

What to do now

Check the label. Compare your model number with the 3 listed in this recall.
Contact the firm. Call (877) 290-6064, or go to www.csd.toshiba.com/cgi-bin/tais/support/jsp/navShell.jsp?cf=Consumer_Notices.
Read the official notice. The CPSC notice is the final word on which units are included and what to do.

Product and sales details

Brand: Toshiba America Consumer Products
Manufacturer: Toshiba America Consumer Products, Inc., of Wayne, N.J.
Recall number: 03-544
Units: 3,400
Manufactured in: United States
Sold at / sales period: Consumer electronic stores, department stores, and mass merchandisers nationwide, from April 21, 2003 through May 8, 2003, for between $999 and $2200.