Warning Issued After PSP Battery Explosion Raises Safety Concerns Among Gamers
Go find your PSP and check your battery asap to be on the safe side.
In a concerning incident that has garnered significant attention on social media, a user known as @cosmicmind2nd reported their PlayStation Portable (PSP) battery exploded while charging, raising alarms about the safety of aging rechargeable batteries in handheld consoles. This event underscores the importance for gamers to routinely inspect their devices for battery integrity, especially given the PSP’s history of battery issues.
PSPが爆発した…
— 鉄腕あとむ・ガイルさん (@cosmicmind2nd) March 18, 2025
夢の中で『💥バンッ！』って破裂音がして目が覚めた。焦げ臭い臭いがして確認したら弾けてた電池とPSPが転がってた。電池を直に触ってしまい、手放したら布団が少し焦げた💦指先を火傷したくらいで済んだけどこれ火事になるやーつですわ…
皆様お気を付けて。。。 pic.twitter.com/ouZUTm1XqF
The incident occurred overnight while the device was plugged in, leading to a frightening wake-up call for the owner. “I smelled something burning, and when I checked, I found the exploded battery and my PSP lying on the ground,” they shared. Fortunately, the owner suffered only minor burns, but the situation could have escalated into a significant fire hazard.
Concerns surrounding PSP batteries are not new - in October 2024 David Crislip, an avid gamer and PSP owner, echoed these sentiments: “I was skeptical until I saw my own battery had swollen so much that it forced the hatch off. It’s definitely worth checking,” he stated. Tech Radar had a post about this back in 2020, so this is not a new issue.
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Practical Tips for PSP Battery Maintenance
To ensure the safety and longevity of your PSP and its battery, consider the following guidelines:
1. Regular Inspection: Periodically check your PSP battery for signs of swelling, leakage, or deformation. If any abnormalities are detected, discontinue use immediately.
2. Proper Charging Practices: Avoid charging the PSP overnight or leaving it unattended while charging, especially if the battery shows signs of aging.
3. Optimal Storage Conditions: Store the device and its battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. High temperatures can accelerate battery degradation.
4. Partial Charging for Storage: If you plan to store the PSP for an extended period, charge the battery to about 60-70%. Storing a fully charged or fully depleted battery can lead to capacity degradation or swelling over time.
Safe Disposal and Replacement
If you discover a swollen or damaged battery, handle it with care to prevent punctures or short circuits. Place the battery in a fireproof container and consult local electronic waste disposal facilities for proper disposal methods. Do not dispose of lithium-ion batteries in regular trash due to environmental and safety hazards.
When seeking a replacement, opt for high-quality batteries from reputable manufacturers. While original Sony PSP batteries may be scarce, some third-party options have received positive feedback. For instance, the OSTENT High Capacity 1800mAh 3.6V Lithium-Ion Battery is one such option available on platforms like Amazon.
Historical Context and Prevalence
The PSP, launched in Japan in 2004 and globally in 2005, has been a beloved handheld console. However, as these devices age, battery-related issues have become more prevalent. Reports of battery swelling and, in extreme cases, explosions have surfaced over the years, affecting various models, including the PSP-1000, PSP-2000, and PSP-3000. This phenomenon is attributed to the natural degradation of lithium-ion batteries over time, especially when exposed to unfavourable conditions.
The recent battery explosion incident serves as a critical reminder of the potential safety hazards associated with aging lithium-ion batteries in handheld gaming consoles. Regular inspection, proper maintenance, and informed handling of PSP batteries are essential to ensure both user safety and the longevity of the device. As the gaming community continues to cherish these classic consoles, prioritising battery health will help prevent dangerous situations and preserve the integrity of these beloved devices.
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