Travel Technology - What's the Story with the Sony TZ

I went to Microcenter this weekend and was going to buy a new Sony TZ, but was told there was a recall and they don't have any in stock. CDW seems to have plenty of different models. Does anyone have a clue what is going on there.

Turning to a slightly different question, I used to live in Dubai and return there three or four times a year. I've considered buying this machine over there because the model sold outside the US comes with an unlocked HSDPA modem, whereas the domestic model comes with a locked down Sprint EVDO card. Can I get some sort of warranty over hear that would cover service? I normally don't buy extended warranties, but notebooks are my big exception.

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Important Notification for the Sony VAIO® TZ Series (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?template_id=1&news_id=272)

The issue involves a small number of units which may overheat due to a wiring problem. Sony has initiated a voluntary program to perform a free inspection and, if necessary, a repair to ensure these units meet our high quality standards.

To find out if your VAIO notebook is one of the affected units, please visit this link: http://esupport.sony.com/fixmypc. You will be prompted to input your product code and serial number located on the bottom of the notebook. It will be checked automatically against the range of affected units. If you find that your PC is one of the affected models, follow the instructions on the website and make arrangements for an inspection. You may also call our VAIO TZ customer hotline at 1-888-526-6219 to determine whether your notebook computer is affected by this issue and whether service is required.

At no charge, Sony will provide an inspection and, if necessary, on-site repair at your home or office. Alternatively, you can ship your notebook to our service center.

Important Notification for the Sony VAIO® TZ Series (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?template_id=1&news_id=272)

My Vaio TZ which I purchased in HK about a year ago is one of the ones being recalled. It is getting collected tomorrow for repair and should be back by Friday.

Not all the models being recalled have the fault but they will check and repair as necessary.

Still a great machine.