Brief: HP Insists Batteries Are Safe, Won't Be ReplacedBrief: HP Insists Batteries Are Safe, Won't Be Replaced

HP's charging and circuit protections for its notebook batteries have safeguarded the OEM's computers from the overheating problems that have plagued other suppliers, according to a joint press release from HP and Sony, which manufactured components in the batteries.

"We believe that we have the proper charging and circuit protections in place to prevent an overheating episode," the press release said.

"While no battery is immune to failure or overheating, battery solutions provided by HP are unique and are designed with a number of HP engineered safely features that are in addition to what is typical in the industry," read the statement, attributed to Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager of HP's Notebook Business Unit.

HP and Sony said they found no safety issues with HP battery packs using 2.4Ah or 2.6Ah Sony cells with the result that HP will not join the global battery replacement program instituted by Sony.

According to the press release, the battery packs are "robustly constructed, include multiple redundant safety circuits and are individually tested both stand-alone and in the system before reaching the customer."