HP "recalls" 679,000 cams, issues firmware update

So even though Hewlett-Packard is "recalling" some 679,000 Photosmart R707 digital cameras (224,000 of which are in the US), there's no real need to panic, because instead of having to send your model back, performing a simple DIY firmware update will keep your shooter from becoming a flame thrower. Like so many other recalls of the past, this one also involves batteries that can potentially overheat and start a fire, but the problem only occurs if you feed power to the camera when it contains non-rechargeable batteries. Therefore, if you always use rechargeables in your R707, it sounds like you have nothing to worry about, but you single-use AA users shouldn't plug in your cams until you've completed the update, 'kay?

[(Unverified) Posted Jun 8th 2006 2:47PM]

The battery issue has been the single most problem complaint for HP cameras. And it's not their fault but Pentax which supplies the cameras to HP.

Now, this is not one of thouse cases. Everyone should know that when a device {any device} requires rechargable batteries ONLY, replacing them with regular alkaline batteries they SHOULD NOT recharged it.

Doing so will cause a fire hazzard to you and property damage. Not really a recall just common sense on part of the end-users, really. If they only take the time to read the user manuals they should know how to prevent this.