We are all eminently aware of the problems the Xbox 360 has had since launch. Microsoft has been working toward cooler running chips and better ventilation design in their consoles, but that seems to be a painstakingly slow process. Now we may have some racing wheel issues...
Now, compounding the 360 overheat issues, comes word that if you're one of the 230,000 people who purchased the Microsoft Wireless Racing Wheel, you may be in danger of burning your house down. Okay, that might be a slight overstatement, but the power packs apparently are having issues over-heating and eventually creating smoke. It sounds like a similar problem MS had with the original Xbox console that required a recall of the power cords. I guess they didn't learn their lessons the first time around.
Microsoft is replacing the power packs free of charge. You can apply for a replacement by visiting Microsoft's website and filling out a retrofit form. Or, if you prefer, you can call 1-800-4my-xbox and speak to a rep to have one shipped to you.
The good news is that there have been no reports of fire or property damage to this point. Microsoft is recommending that consumers use the battery pack and leave the power cord disconnected until a new one arrives. Of course that means no Force Feedback, but I suppose better safe then sorry. One has to wonder if Bill even has a QC dept. in Redmond at this point.
Press Release
REDMOND, Wash. — Aug. 22, 2007 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that it is taking a precautionary measure and voluntarily providing customers with a free retrofit to the Xbox 360™ Wireless Racing Wheel.
The action is being taken after Microsoft was informed of a very small number of incidents of a malfunction in the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel, in which a component in the wheel chassis may overheat and release smoke when the AC/DC power supply is used to energize the wheel. There have been no reported incidences of fire, personal injury or property damage resulting from the component failure in the wheel.
Owners of the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel should stop using the AC/DC power supply until they have obtained their retrofit. They may continue to operate the wheel using battery power.
Owners of the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel should visit http://www.xbox.com/support or call Microsoft at (800) 4MY-XBOX (469-9269) to register for the free retrofit and protect against the potential hazard described above. Instructions, if necessary, will be provided with the retrofit. Microsoft is notifying and will be coordinating its response activities with the relevant regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. This may affect delivery dates.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a superior video game and entertainment system delivering the best games, unique entertainment features and a unified online gaming network that revolve around gamers. Xbox 360 will have a portfolio of more than 300 games and will be available in nearly 40 countries by the end of 2007. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/xbox360.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
