Barnes & Noble Recalls Power Adapters Sold with NOOK Tablet 7 Due to Shock Hazard

What was recalled

On February 1, 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving power adapters distributed by Barnes & Noble. This action was taken to address safety concerns associated with a specific component sold alongside the company’s popular NOOK Tablet 7". While many consumers may not immediately recognize the small black box that plugs into the wall as the source of a potential issue, this particular adapter has been identified as defective due to structural integrity failures in its casing. The recall is not limited to just one type of device but specifically targets the power adapters that were originally bundled with or sold for use with the NOOK Tablet 7" electronic readers.

To help you determine if your device is part of this recall, it is important to look closely at both the adapter itself and the tablet it powers. The recalled items are black power adapters that bear specific manufacturing markings essential for identification. You should check the label on the adapter for the model number TPA-95A050100UU and a manufacture date code of 201610. These details are critical because they pinpoint the exact batch of units affected by the safety defect. Additionally, the recall applies to the NOOK Tablet 7" with the specific model number BNTV450. This model number can typically be found printed on the back of the tablet itself. If your adapter matches the TPA-95A050100UU designation and your tablet is model BNTV450, you are in possession of one of the recalled units.

Barnes & Noble has acknowledged that four reports have been received regarding these adapters breaking or pulling apart when plugged into an electrical outlet. In these instances, the casing fails in a way that exposes the metal prongs inside, creating a direct pathway for electricity to escape where it should be contained. While no injuries have been reported at this time, the potential for electric shock is real and serious. The recall underscores the importance of verifying product details even with trusted brands, as manufacturing defects can occur in any batch. Consumers who purchased these items are urged to take immediate steps to verify their possession of these specific models and to cease using the affected adapters until they have been replaced through the official remedy process.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, a power adapter seems like a passive piece of plastic and wire—just a bridge that carries electricity from your wall outlet to your tablet. However, in the case of the recalled Barnes & Noble NOOK Tablet 7" adapters, this safety mechanism has failed at its most vulnerable point: the outer casing. The core issue is structural integrity. These specific black power adapters are designed to house high-voltage components within a plastic shell that is supposed to act as an insulator, keeping you safe from the dangerous electricity flowing inside. Unfortunately, for units manufactured in October 2016 (bearing the date code 201610 and model number TPA-95A050100UU), that shell can break or pull apart when plugged into an electrical outlet.

When this casing fractures, it exposes the internal metal prongs. This is not merely a cosmetic defect; it creates a direct path for electricity to escape where it should be contained. Under normal circumstances, if you were to touch the plastic exterior of a functioning adapter, you would feel nothing because the insulation prevents current from leaving the device. But once that casing breaks, the exposed metal parts are live with electrical current. If your hand, or any part of your body, comes into contact with these exposed prongs while they are connected to a wall outlet, your body can become the path of least resistance for that electricity to flow to the ground.

This is what constitutes an electric shock hazard. The severity of the injury depends on several factors, including the voltage level and how long the contact lasts, but even brief exposure to exposed live wires can cause serious harm. Electric shocks can range from a painful jolt to muscle contractions that make it difficult to let go of the source, potentially leading to falls or secondary injuries. In more severe cases, it can disrupt the heart's rhythm or cause internal burns. While Barnes & Noble has reported four incidents where the adapters broke apart exposing these prongs, they have noted that no injuries have been reported so far. This is fortunate, but it does not eliminate the risk; the potential for harm remains as long as the defective units are plugged in and used.

It is important to understand why this happens specifically when plugged in. The act of inserting the adapter into a wall socket can put physical stress on the connection point. If the casing is brittle or poorly adhered, that mechanical stress can cause it to snap open. Once open, the metal prongs are not only exposed but also potentially accessible to children or pets who might touch them out of curiosity or during play. The hazard is therefore twofold: it endangers the user handling the device and creates a public safety risk in any household environment.

Understanding this mechanism highlights why simply "being careful" is not a sufficient long-term solution. You cannot reliably predict when the casing might give way, especially since the failure occurs at the point of insertion into the wall. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Barnes & Noble have classified this as an immediate recall requiring removal from use. The only way to neutralize this specific hazard is to disconnect the faulty adapter entirely and replace it with a unit that has proper, intact insulation.

Who is most at risk

While the Barnes & Noble recall affects any owner of the specific NOOK Tablet 7" model BNTV450 paired with the TPA-95A050100UU power adapter, the nature of this hazard creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the device itself. The core issue is not merely an inconvenience; it is a sudden failure of electrical containment. When the casing of this specific black power adapter breaks or pulls apart while plugged into a wall outlet, the internal metal prongs are exposed. This transforms a standard charging brick into an active electrical danger point. Therefore, the individuals most at risk are those who interact with their electronics in ways that reduce situational awareness or physical distance from the power source.

Families with young children represent a particularly vulnerable group in this scenario. Children are naturally curious and often explore their environment by touching, pulling, and investigating objects. If a recalled adapter is plugged into an outlet near the floor, behind furniture, or in a common area where a child plays, the risk increases significantly. A child might tug on the power cord to reach a toy or simply pull the adapter down from the wall. Because the casing can break under stress, this physical manipulation could instantly expose live electrical components. Since children have smaller hands and less understanding of electrical danger, they are at a higher risk of making direct contact with the exposed metal prongs, which can lead to severe electric shock injuries.

Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility may also face heightened risks, not necessarily from curiosity, but from physical interaction with aging infrastructure. Older homes may have outlets that are loose or positioned in ways that require awkward positioning to plug in devices. If a user must apply extra force or angle the adapter in a strained way to connect it, the mechanical stress on the defective casing increases. Furthermore, if an individual has reduced sensation in their hands due to conditions like neuropathy, they might not immediately feel the initial crack or separation of the plastic housing. By the time they notice something is wrong, the metal prongs may already be exposed and energized.

Additionally, anyone who leaves their NOOK Tablet 7" charging overnight or in unattended areas is at risk. The recall indicates that four reports of the adapter breaking have been received, suggesting that the failure can occur during normal use over time. If the device is charging while no one is home to react to a sparking event or a sudden disconnect, the danger shifts from personal injury to potential secondary hazards, such as fires caused by arcing electricity contacting nearby flammable materials like curtains or bedding. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is real for anyone who relies on this specific power adapter for their daily routine.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you purchased a NOOK Tablet 7" from Barnes & Noble, particularly around the time this recall was announced in early 2017, it is important to verify whether your specific power adapter is part of this safety notice. The recall targets a very specific component: the black power adapter that originally came packaged with the device. Because these adapters look quite similar to many standard USB chargers on the market, you cannot rely on appearance alone. You must check the physical markings printed directly on the brick itself to confirm if it is one of the affected units.

The most critical piece of information to look for is the model number. On the recalled adapters, you will find the code TPA-95A050100UU printed clearly on the casing. Alongside this model number, there is a manufacture date code that reads 201610. This indicates the adapter was produced in October 2016. If your adapter has these exact markings, it is part of the recall and must be replaced immediately. It is easy to miss these small details, so take your time to read the text carefully. Do not assume that an adapter purchased at a different time or from a different batch is safe if you are unsure; when in doubt, check for these specific codes.

In addition to identifying the charger, you should also verify the tablet model to ensure you have the correct device entirely. The recall specifically involves the NOOK Tablet 7" with the model number BNTV450. You can find this number located on the back of the NOOK tablet itself. Confirming both the adapter details and the tablet model will give you complete certainty about your situation.

If you no longer have the original packaging or are unsure when you bought the device, do not worry. You can also contact Barnes & Noble directly for assistance. They can help you determine if your specific unit is included in the recall. For further confirmation or if you need more information, you may call their toll-free number at 877-886-5025. Their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET on weekends. Alternatively, you can visit www.barnesandnoble.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page for online resources.

To summarize, look for these key identifiers:

• Adapter Model Number: TPA-95A050100UU
• Manufacture Date: 201610
• Tablet Model: BNTV450 (located on the back of the tablet)
• Color: Black power adapter

If your adapter matches these details, please stop using it right away and follow the remedy steps provided by Barnes & Noble to get your free replacement.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled power adapters, Barnes & Noble has established a clear and customer-friendly remedy to resolve the issue. It is important to understand that this recall does not involve a monetary refund in the traditional sense; rather, the company is offering a free replacement unit along with a gesture of goodwill. Specifically, eligible consumers will receive a brand-new, safe power adapter at no cost, as well as a $5 Barnes & Noble gift card for their trouble. This approach is designed to ensure your device remains functional while compensating you for the inconvenience and ensuring you have a reliable retailer credit for future purchases.

To access these benefits, you must take proactive steps by registering for the recall remedy online. The process begins by visiting the Barnes & Noble website at www.barnesandnoble.com. Once on the homepage, look to the very bottom of the page and click on the link labeled "Product Recalls." From there, you will need to follow the instructions to register your specific unit. During this registration, you will be provided with a pre-paid UPS shipping label. This label is crucial because it allows you to return the defective adapter completely free of charge. You simply print the label, attach it to the box containing the recalled power adapter, and drop it off at any UPS location or schedule a pickup.

While you are waiting for your replacement adapter to arrive in the mail, you do not need to leave your NOOK Tablet 7" without power. Barnes & Noble advises that until your new adapter arrives, you can safely charge your tablet by connecting it directly to a computer using a standard USB cable. This temporary workaround ensures you can continue to use your device for reading, browsing, or other tasks without interruption. It is a practical, low-tech solution that leverages the USB ports already present on most laptops and desktop computers.

If you encounter any difficulties with the online registration process or have questions about your eligibility, Barnes & Noble offers direct customer support. You can reach their recall specialists by calling their toll-free number at 877-886-5025. The customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time. This extended availability helps accommodate different schedules, making it easier for you to get the help you need promptly.

The "why" behind this remedy is rooted in safety and customer trust. Because the adapter casing can break and expose live metal prongs, continuing to use it poses a genuine electric shock hazard. By providing a free replacement, Barnes & Noble removes the risk entirely while maintaining your ability to use your tablet. The $5 gift card serves as an apology for the hassle, acknowledging that dealing with recalls is never convenient. By following these steps—registering online, returning the old adapter via the pre-paid label, and using the USB cable interim method—you ensure your safety and keep your device powered up until the official replacement arrives.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about taking extra steps when dealing with a product recall. You might look at the recalled power adapter sitting on your nightstand or desk and think, “It still works fine,” or “I’ve been using it for months without any issues.” That sense of normalcy is exactly what manufacturers and safety regulators warn against. The danger in this specific situation lies not in how the device functions while it is intact, but in the structural integrity of its housing. The recall notice highlights that the casing can break or pull apart when plugged into an electrical outlet. This is not a minor cosmetic crack; it is a failure of the protective barrier designed to keep high-voltage electricity contained within the device and away from your hands.

If you continue to use this adapter despite the known defect, you are gambling with a direct path to electric shock. When the plastic casing fractures, the internal components that carry the current can become exposed. Specifically, the recall notes that the metal prongs or conductive parts inside can be revealed. If your fingers, or any conductive object like a pet or a child’s toy, come into contact with these exposed live parts while they are plugged into a wall outlet, electricity can flow through you to the ground. Electric shocks vary in severity depending on the current and duration of contact, but even low-level shocks can cause muscle spasms that make it difficult to let go of the source, prolonging exposure. In more severe cases, electric shock can disrupt the heart’s rhythm or cause burns at the point of entry and exit.

While Barnes & Noble has reported four incidents where the adapter broke or pulled apart exposing these dangerous metal components, they have stated that no injuries have been reported so far. This is a fortunate outcome, but it does not mean the risk is absent. It only means that, up until this recall was announced, those specific units had not yet failed in a way that resulted in harm. The absence of reported injuries should not be interpreted as proof of safety. Rather, it indicates that the hazard is real and present, but perhaps less frequent than the potential for widespread damage. Waiting for an injury to occur before acting is a dangerous strategy because the consequences of electric shock are unpredictable and potentially life-altering.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall keeps you in a state of unnecessary vulnerability. Every time you plug this adapter in, you are subjecting it to mechanical stress and thermal cycling, which can accelerate the failure of the already compromised casing. You might be charging your NOOK Tablet 7" without incident today, but the next time the plastic gives way, the result could be a sudden, painful shock or even a fire hazard if the exposed wires arc against conductive surfaces. The safest course of action is to remove this variable from your life entirely by swapping it out for the free replacement provided in the remedy.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls are essential for addressing immediate dangers, building a robust habit of general electrical safety can significantly reduce the risk of shocks, fires, and equipment damage in your home. Power adapters, chargers, and cords are among the most commonly used items in modern households, yet they are also frequent sources of preventable accidents. By understanding how these devices fail and taking proactive steps to maintain them, you can protect both your electronics and your household from harm.

First, always prioritize the physical condition of your power adapters and cables over convenience. Over time, the insulation on cords can fray, crack, or become brittle due to heat, bending, or age. If you notice any exposed wires, unusual warmth, or a burning smell while a device is charging, unplug it immediately and discontinue use. Do not attempt to repair damaged cords with tape or other makeshift solutions; these temporary fixes do not restore the electrical integrity of the wire and can create serious shock or fire hazards. Instead, replace the entire unit with a certified replacement. Look for products that bear the mark of a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), such as UL, ETL, or CSA, which indicates the device has been tested to meet specific safety standards.

Proper usage habits are equally important. Avoid "daisy-chaining" power strips, where one extension cord is plugged into another, or plugging high-wattage appliances like space heaters or microwaves into the same circuit as your sensitive electronics. This can overload the circuit and cause adapters to overheat. Additionally, ensure that air vents on both your devices and their power bricks remain unobstructed. Many modern adapters rely on passive cooling; if they are buried under pillows, blankets, or clutter, heat cannot dissipate effectively, leading to internal component failure or casing degradation.

Finally, make checking for recalls a regular part of your home maintenance routine, much like changing smoke detector batteries. Manufacturers and government agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issue recalls when they discover defects that pose unreasonable risks. These issues often affect specific batches of products that may look perfectly fine on the surface but carry hidden dangers. You can stay informed by signing up for email alerts on the CPSC website or by registering your high-value electronics directly with the manufacturer at the time of purchase. This ensures you receive immediate notification if a safety issue arises, allowing you to take swift action before an incident occurs.