Microsoft is recalling power cords on 14.1 million Xbox consoles worldwide, following reports of injuries due to defective electric components.

The company announced the recall today, saying it is aimed at protecting the consoles from electrical component failures that can pose a fire hazard. So far such failures have been reported in 30 consoles worldwide, causing minor injury or property damage, Microsoft said. Seven customers reported burn to their hands. In rest of the cases, the defect caused smoke damage or minor damage to a carpet or entertainment center.  "In almost all instances, any damage caused by these failures was contained within the console itself or limited to the tip of the power cord at the back of the console," Microsoft stated.


The recall covers Xbox consoles manufactured before Oct. 23, 2003 in all regions except continental Europe. In Europe, consoles made before Jan. 13, 2004, will need a replacement cord, the company said.

Orders for replacement cords can be placed at the Xbox web site. It will take up to four weeks for new cords to arrive. Until the new cord comes, customers should turn off consoles when not in use, Microsoft stated.