Microsoft recalled its 2005 Xbox power cords because they could overheat and create a fire hazard.
The recall involved power cords supplied with original Xbox consoles sold in several markets. Microsoft reported that a small number of cords had overheated, with some incidents involving smoke or property damage. The company replaced the cords with redesigned versions at no charge.
The original Xbox launched in North America in 2001 and became Microsoft’s first major home video-game console. Because millions of systems had been sold, even a low rate of electrical failures could justify a broad safety campaign.
This recall concerned the detachable power cord, not the Xbox console’s software, disc drive, or controller. It is also separate from later recalls and service programs involving the Xbox 360’s “Red Ring of Death,” which involved console hardware reliability rather than a recalled mains cable.