Recall: Certain VAIO Notebook Computers Recalled by Sony Electronics Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 25, 2003 Release # 03-197

Company Phone Number: (800) 880-9743 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, Sony Electronics Inc. Announce Recall of Certain VAIO Notebook Computers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces the following recall in voluntary cooperation with the firm below. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Sony VAIO notebook computers

Units: About 5,600

Manufacturer: Sony Corp., of Tokyo, Japan

Hazard: Users could receive a mild electric shock when the recalled computers are connected to a phone line and the phone rings.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: Only Sony VAIO notebook computers with model numbers PCG-FRV25 or PCG-FRV27 sold from June through July 2003 are part of the recall. These computers will have slow modem speeds, generally below 24K while using the notebook's AC adapter. Consumers unsure of their modem speed can check it at the Sony PC support Web site: www.sony.com/pcsupport. Sony previously announced this recall on July 10, 2003.

Sold at: Electronic and computer stores nationwide from June 2003 through July 2003 for about $1,500.

Manufactured in: China.

Remedy: Consumers with VAIO notebooks included in the recall should disconnect their modem from the phone line immediately, and contact Sony to arrange for a free repair. Sony also will extend the current limited warranty for repaired products to 2 years from date of original purchase.

Consumer Contact: Call Sony at (800) 880-9743 anytime or visit their Web site at www.sony.com/pcsupport.

Media Contact: Valerie Motis at (858) 942-8016 or at valerie.motis@am.sony.com.