Apex Gaming PCs Recalls Manik and Apex-branded ATX Computer Power Supplies Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Electrical Shock and Electrocution Hazards

What was recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a significant recall affecting specific computer power supply units manufactured by Apex Gaming PCs Inc. This action, dated April 16, 2026, targets ATX Computer Power Supplies that are sold under two distinct brand names: Manik and Apex. If you have recently built a gaming PC or upgraded an existing one, it is important to know exactly which components fall under this notice. The recall is not limited to a single model number but rather encompasses power supplies of varying wattages, specifically the 450W, 750W, 1000W, and 1200W units. These units are available in both black and white color options, which can make visual identification slightly more nuanced without checking the specific labeling.

To help you identify whether your equipment is part of this recall, look closely at the exterior labels on the power supply unit itself. The affected products will bear either an "Apex" or a "Manik" brand label. These power supplies are designed to be secure and tamper-resistant; they are closed with four precision-sized screws, and one of these screws is covered by a security or tamper seal. This design feature is notable because it indicates that the unit is not intended to be opened by the end-user under normal circumstances. The recall applies to these power supplies regardless of whether they were purchased as individual components online or in retail stores, or if they were pre-installed within a complete gaming computer at the time of sale.

The scope of this recall is defined by the specific manufacturing and labeling practices of Apex Gaming PCs Inc. for these particular ATX models. Because the units are sold both individually and as part of larger systems, consumers might not immediately recognize them as standalone products requiring attention. If you bought a pre-built gaming computer from a retailer, your power supply may still be one of the affected Manik or Apex units. Conversely, if you purchased these power supplies separately to upgrade your own system, they are definitely subject to this safety alert. The CPSC has identified these specific wattage ranges and branding combinations as the core items requiring immediate attention due to the critical safety defect described in the subsequent sections of this recall notice.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, a computer power supply looks like a safe, inert box of metal and plastic. It sits quietly inside your gaming rig or desktop tower, humming along as it converts wall outlet electricity into the precise voltages your components need to run. However, the core issue with the recalled Apex Gaming PCs Manik and Apex-branded ATX power supplies is not necessarily that they are electrically faulty in their normal operation, but rather that they lack a critical, permanent warning label on the exterior casing. This missing label fails to clearly identify the severe electrical shock and electrocution hazards present within the unit.

Here is why that omission matters so much physically. Inside these power supply units, there are high-voltage components that remain energized even when the computer is turned off, provided it is still plugged into a wall outlet. Normally, manufacturers rely on strict user education and visible warnings to prevent anyone from opening the case. Because these specific units do not have a permanent, UL-recognized, heat-resistant adhesive safety label indicating "Danger/Warning" shock hazards and stating "No User-Serviceable Parts," a consumer might mistakenly believe the unit is safe to open for cleaning, inspection, or modification.

If you attempt to remove the four precision-sized screws or break the security/tamper seal to access the interior, you expose yourself to live electrical contacts. The risk of serious injury or death from electrocution arises because the internal capacitors can hold a dangerous charge, and direct contact with internal circuitry while the unit is plugged in can allow current to pass through your body. This is not a minor sting; it is a life-threatening event that can cause cardiac arrest, severe burns, or permanent nerve damage. The hazard is compounded by the fact that these units are often sold within pre-built gaming computers, where the power supply is tucked away deep inside the chassis, making the absence of an external warning label even more dangerous because users may never see any cautionary text at all.

It is crucial to understand that the physical structure of these units—their sealed design with precision screws and tamper seals—is intended to keep high-voltage components completely inaccessible during normal use. By violating that seal, you are bypassing the primary safety barrier provided by the manufacturer. The lack of a clear, permanent warning means there is no final, unmissable alert stopping you from making a fatal mistake. Therefore, the hazard is not just about electricity; it is about the failure to communicate the extreme danger of breaching that sealed environment.

Who is most at risk

The primary group facing immediate danger in this recall consists of individuals who own or frequently handle the specific Manik- and Apex-branded ATX computer power supplies manufactured by Apex Gaming PCs Inc. This includes gamers, PC enthusiasts, and general consumers who have purchased these units either as standalone components to build their own desktop computers or as pre-installed parts within complete gaming rigs. Because these power supplies are integral to the operation of high-performance computing systems, they are typically housed inside computer cases that may remain plugged into wall outlets for extended periods, even when the system is turned off. This constant connection to household electrical currents means that the hazard is present whenever the unit is in a powered state or connected to a power source.

The specific vulnerability in this scenario stems from the nature of the defect itself: the absence of permanent, on-product warning labels that identify potential electrical shock and electrocution hazards. Without these critical visual cues, users are not immediately alerted to the severe risks associated with opening the unit. Consequently, anyone who feels comfortable attempting to disassemble, open, or service the power supply is at risk. This often includes DIY builders who may attempt to modify their setups, troubleshoot internal issues, or clean dust from the interior components. The recall notes that these units are secured with four precision-sized screws and a security/tamper seal, which might give a false sense of security or encourage tampering by those unfamiliar with electrical safety protocols.

While any user who opens the unit faces significant danger, certain groups may be particularly vulnerable due to varying levels of technical knowledge or physical reaction times. Individuals with less experience in computer hardware assembly or repair are at higher risk because they may not recognize the inherent dangers of high-voltage capacitors inside a power supply unit. They might assume that because the computer is "off," the internal components are safe to touch, unaware that residual charge or faulty insulation can still deliver a lethal shock. Furthermore, the recall highlights that the units lack UL-recognized safety labeling, which serves as a standard industry safeguard for less technical consumers who rely on such certifications to gauge product safety.

Additionally, the risk extends beyond just the person opening the device. Electrical faults in power supplies can sometimes lead to short circuits, fires, or unexpected shutdowns that could cause secondary injuries, such as falls or accidents while working at a desk. Elderly users or those with mobility issues who may be building or maintaining their own computers might find it physically challenging to handle small precision screws and delicate internal components, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact with live parts if the unit is opened. It is crucial to remember that under no circumstances should anyone attempt to open, disassemble, or service these power supply units, regardless of their technical expertise.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Determining whether your computer power supply is part of this recall requires a careful visual inspection of both the unit itself and any documentation you received with it. Because Apex Gaming PCs has affected multiple product lines under two different brand names, relying solely on the wattage or the color of the casing can lead to confusion. The CPSC report specifies that the recalled items are ATX Computer Power Supplies available in 450W, 750W, 1000W, and 1200W configurations. These units come in both black and white finishes, meaning color alone is not a reliable indicator of whether your device is safe or subject to this recall.

The most critical step is to locate the manufacturer’s label on the power supply unit. You need to look for either the "Apex" brand or the "Manik" brand name printed clearly on that sticker. If you see either of these names, your immediate next step should be to check the specific model and serial numbers against the official list provided by Apex Gaming PCs Inc., as not every unit bearing these brands may be affected in every batch, though the recall covers all units with these branding identifiers in the specified wattages. It is important to note that these power supplies are secured closed with four precision-sized screws. Additionally, look for a security or tamper seal covering one of those four screws; this seal is a distinctive feature of the recalled units and indicates that the factory has sealed the casing shut.

You may have encountered these products in two different ways. First, you might have purchased a gaming computer that already includes the power supply installed inside the case. In this scenario, check the documentation or the side panel labeling of your gaming PC to see if it lists an Apex or Manik power supply as a component. Second, you may have bought the power supply unit individually as a replacement part for a custom build. If you purchased it separately, check your order confirmation emails, packing slips, or the box itself for the brand names and model numbers mentioned above.

If you are unsure about the specific wattage or if the label has been removed or obscured, do not attempt to open the unit to look for internal markings. The recall notice explicitly warns against opening or disassembling the power supply under any circumstances due to the risk of electrical shock. Instead, rely on the external branding and the presence of the tamper seal as your primary visual cues. If you identify an Apex or Manik branded ATX power supply with a tamper seal, stop using it immediately and contact the company for verification and remedy instructions.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have identified that you own one of the recalled Manik- or Apex-branded ATX Computer Power Supplies, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Apex Gaming PCs Inc. have established a clear and accessible remedy to ensure your safety. Your first priority is to stop using the unit immediately. Once you have done so, you must reach out to Apex Gaming PCs Inc. directly to initiate the recall process. It is important to note that the company is offering two distinct paths forward: a free repair via mail or a complete free replacement of the unit. Both options are provided at no cost to you, and the choice depends entirely on your personal comfort level with handling electronic components.

The primary remedy offered by Apex Gaming PCs Inc. involves sending you a permanent, UL-recognized, heat-resistant adhesive safety label via U.S. Mail. This sticker is designed to address the specific hazard of the missing warning label. It contains an ANSI-compliant "Danger/Warning" shock hazard notice and a "No User-Serviceable Parts" instruction. The intent behind this remedy is to allow you to safely keep your current power supply by making the electrical risks visible and permanent on the device itself. However, this option comes with a strict condition: you must be willing to apply this label yourself. The company explicitly states that consumers who are uncomfortable adding this UL-recognized safety label should not attempt this repair and should instead opt for a replacement.

If you choose the replacement route, which is available to anyone regardless of whether they want to install the sticker or not, Apex Gaming PCs Inc. will send you a new unit free of charge. This is often the preferred option for those who wish to avoid any interaction with the potentially hazardous internal components of the power supply. To facilitate this exchange, the company has set up a streamlined return process. When your replacement unit arrives, it will be packaged in the same box used to ship it to you. Inside or attached to this box will be a provided shipping label. You must place the original, recalled power supply back into that exact box and use the provided label to return it. This ensures that the dangerous unit is properly retrieved and disposed of by professionals.

Please remember that under no circumstances should you attempt to open, disassemble, or service the power supply unit yourself. The hazard involves serious electrical shock and electrocution risks that are not mitigated by simply looking inside the case. Whether you choose to apply the safety label or wait for a replacement, your interaction with the device should be limited to turning it off and unplugging it. Contact Apex Gaming PCs Inc. as soon as possible to get your specific model number verified and to begin your chosen remedy process.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall involves electrical components like a power supply unit (PSU), the stakes are fundamentally different from a faulty jacket or a broken toy. Ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a direct gamble with your personal safety and the structural integrity of your entire computing setup. The core issue here is not that the power supply will stop working, but that it is designed in a way that exposes live electrical parts to anyone who might need to interact with the inside of the case. By continuing to use these Manik- or Apex-branded units without applying the provided safety label or requesting a replacement, you are leaving a critical warning absent from the device.

The hazard described by the CPSC is specific and severe: electrical shock and electrocution. Power supplies convert high-voltage alternating current from your wall outlet into the lower voltages your computer needs. Inside the sealed metal box, there are capacitors that can store a dangerous charge even after the computer is turned off and unplugged. The recalled units lack a permanent, on-product warning label. This omission is not just a paperwork error; it is a failure of communication. Without that clear "Danger/Warning" label, a user might reasonably assume the unit is safe to open for cleaning dust or upgrading cables. If you attempt to open these units, or if they are opened by someone else—such as a technician, a family member, or even yourself during a routine maintenance check—you risk coming into contact with high-voltage components that are no longer adequately guarded or identified.

The consequences of this exposure can be catastrophic. Electrocution is not a theoretical risk in electronics; it is a physiological reality. Current passing through the human body can cause muscle paralysis, preventing you from letting go of the live part, leading to severe burns, cardiac arrest, and death. Even if the injury is not fatal, electrical shocks can cause secondary injuries from falling or jerking away, and long-term nerve damage. Furthermore, tampering with these units voids any safety certifications, including the UL recognition that should be present on compliant hardware. You are essentially turning a piece of regulated safety equipment into an unregulated hazard.

Beyond the immediate risk to human life, ignoring the recall also jeopardizes your expensive gaming PC. Power supplies that are not properly sealed or labeled may have internal components that are not designed to be accessed. Disturbing these internals can lead to short circuits, which might fry your motherboard, graphics card, and storage drives in an instant. In the worst-case scenario, a compromised power supply can arc internally, leading to a fire within your computer case. The CPSC’s remedy—either a free safety label or a full replacement—is designed to eliminate these risks entirely. Choosing to do nothing leaves you exposed to both physical harm and significant financial loss for no reason.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a critical gap in labeling for certain power supply units, the underlying principle applies to virtually every piece of electronic equipment in your home: respect the boundary between user-serviceable and technician-only components. Power supplies are the heart of any computer system, converting wall outlet electricity into the precise voltages your processor and graphics card need. Because they handle high-voltage alternating current (AC) internally, even after you unplug the device from the wall, capacitors within the unit can retain a dangerous electrical charge for some time. This is why manufacturers strictly prohibit opening these sealed boxes. The "no user-serviceable parts" warning isn't just bureaucratic jargon; it is a physical barrier against electrocution and fire. Always treat any sealed electronic enclosure with the same caution you would treat a live wire. If a component fails, the safest and most cost-effective path is almost always professional repair or replacement, not DIY disassembly.

Beyond avoiding dangerous disassembly, proactive maintenance is your best defense against electrical hazards in general. Regularly inspect the power cords of all high-wattage devices for fraying, cracking, or exposed wiring. A damaged cord is a common precursor to short circuits and fires. Ensure that your outlets are not overloaded; using extension cords as permanent solutions or daisy-chaining power strips can cause overheating, especially when powering gaming PCs or other high-performance equipment. If you notice any burning smells, unusual buzzing sounds from your computer case, or if the unit feels excessively hot to the touch during normal operation, shut it down immediately and disconnect it from power. These are often early warning signs that internal components are failing or that airflow is blocked, which can lead to catastrophic failure.

Another crucial habit is staying informed about product safety without waiting for a crisis. Register your high-value electronics with the manufacturers after purchase. This simple step ensures that if a latent defect is discovered later, you are notified directly and quickly rather than finding out through a news article months after the fact. Additionally, make it a routine part of your tech maintenance to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or sign up for their email alerts. Recalls happen frequently, and many affect older models that are still in use today. By keeping your software updated and your hardware clean from dust buildup, you reduce stress on components like fans and power supplies, extending their lifespan and reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures.

• Register your devices: Always complete the warranty registration card or online form when you buy new electronics to ensure you receive direct safety notices.
• Inspect cords regularly: Check power cables for damage before every use, especially for high-power devices like gaming PCs, refrigerators, and space heaters.
• Monitor for warning signs: Pay attention to unusual smells, noises, or heat outputs from any electronic device and act on them immediately by disconnecting power.
• Use quality surge protection: Invest in a high-quality surge protector to shield your equipment from voltage spikes caused by storms or grid fluctuations, which can damage sensitive internal components.