Product Advisory Statement – Canon PC-3 and PC-5 Compact Personal Copiers Canon Inc. (Japan) has issued a product advisory for the Canon FC-3, FC-3II, FC-5 and FC-5II compact personal copiers (the Canon PC-3, PC-3II, PC-5 and PC-5II, and similar PC-5L and PC-5LII, in the United States) manufactured and marketed between 1986 and 1993.

While the likelihood is quite remote, a phenomenon known as tracking* can occur on the surface of the circuit boards used in these products. “Tracking” is a phenomenon in which various conditions such as dust or humidity result in the creation of a weak electrical current in an unintended location, resulting in the creation of a conductive carbon path. Under certain circumstances, and over a period of considerable time, such “tracking” can result in smoke emission or fire.

There have been 26 confirmed incidents of smoke emission or fire – all in Japan – out of approximately 816,000 PC-3 and PC-5 or comparable copiers produced worldwide. No incidents have been reported in the United States. Although a fire did not spread outside of the copier in any of the 26 incidents, and tests suggest that it is highly unlikely that any fire would spread outside the copier, Canon U.S.A., Inc., is taking measures to ensure that all affected customers can continue using these products with confidence.

Although the possibility of “tracking” is remote, Canon U.S.A., Inc., wishes to ensure that all Canon PC-3, PC-3II, PC-5, PC-5II, PC-5L and PC-5LII copier customers can continue using Canon copiers with confidence. Accordingly, we will repair or replace all Canon PC-3, PC-3II, PC-5, PC-5II, PC-5L and PC-5LII copiers with a comparable copier, without charge to the customer.

 If you own a Canon PC-3, PC-3II, PC-5, PC-5II, PC-5L and PC-5LII copier, please contact us at 1-877-226-6680.