AUTHORITIES are investigating the safety of certain iPod models after one of the audio players reportedly overheated and discharged sparks while being charged.

The malfunctioning iPod Nano was detailed by the Japanese Industry Ministry in a list of dangerous incidents involving consumer products.

“The battery part of the product overheated while being charged and sparked,” the ministry said.

Apple has previously warned that iPods may generate excess heat while being charged in certain carry cases.

Over the past five years there has been a spate of reports about exploding notebook batteries and other dangerous malfunctions involving consumer electronics.

These incidents are often due to a faulty rechargeable lithium ion battery – the same type that is used in the iPod Nano.

In 2006 Dell and Apple recalled their notebook batteries amidst widespread public concern about exploding batteries.

Technology blog Engadget last year published photos of a reader’s charred iPod Nano that allegedly began to spark while it was charging.

However, some reports of battery faults have been fabricated.

Last November South Korean man Kwon Yong-Sup claimed his co-worker died when a mobile phone battery exploded in his chest pocket.

It was later revealed Mr Kwon had fabricated the story to cover up a workplace accident.

Normal batteries will only explode if misused – for example, if they are paired with the wrong charger, punctured or exposed to extreme heat.

via: http://www.news.com.au/technology/story/0,25642,23361721-5014239,00.html