Recall: NETGEAR Inc. Recall of Wall Plug Ethernet Bridges

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 14, 2004 Release # 04-178

Firm's Hotline: (800) 303-5507 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

CPSC, NETGEAR Inc. Announce Recall of Wall Plug Ethernet Bridges

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: Wall Plug Ethernet Bridge

Units: About 53,500 units

Manufacturer: NETGEAR Inc., of Santa Clara, Calif.

Hazard: The plastic housing on these units can detach, posing a shock hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: NETGEAR has received one report from a consumer of a detached casing. No injuries were reported.

Description: The Wall Plug Ethernet Bridge is used to extend internet availability throughout a home or business. It is 2.75 inches high, 3.5 inches wide, and 2 inches thick, with a grayish silver plastic housing. "NETGEAR" is written on the top of the housing. The plastic housing contains a label with the model number and the serial number on it. The model number is XE102 and the serial numbers are XE12A32LB000001 through XE12A32LB005000 and XE12134LB005021 through XE12143LB053586.

Sold at: Various electronics stores, Web sites, and through the NETGEAR Web site from February 2003 through May 2004 for between $50 and $80.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the product immediately. Remove electrical power source to the receptacle and unplug the unit. Contact the company for a free repair kit. The free repair kit when affixed will ensure that the plastic housing will not become loose or separated.

Consumer Contact: Call NETGEAR Inc., toll-free at (800) 303-5507 anytime for a free repair kit. Consumers also can register at the company's Web site www.netgear.com to order a free repair kit.