Acer recalls potentially overheating Predators

Pair of pricey gaming PCs melt

By Tony Smith • Get more from this author

20th March 2009 10:46 GMT

Updated Acer has recalled all of its Predator monster gaming desktop PC in the US after two owners experienced machine meltdown.

Neither punter said they were hurt by the incidents, which involved short-circuits within the system that led to "melted internal components and external casing", according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Acer's Predator: was this promo pic prophetic?

The cause of the short-circuit was attributed to overheating which, in turn, caused wiring within the machines to bend and become exposed, ultimately to the extent of making contact with other parts of the electrical system.

The recall affects two models of Predator - ASG7200 and ASG7700 - sold between May 2008 and December 2008. During that time Acer sold all of 215 units. Since the Predator's priced at between $2000 and $6000, we're not at all surprised not many were sold.

Acer warned its Predator customers to stop using their machines and to get in touch with the company for a free repair.

Acer Europe quietly began recalling and repairing local Predators late last year. Anyone over here with an original Predator should contact their local Acer service centre, details here. ®