"...If your Philips CDD2600 or CDD2000 CD-R drive had problems burning discs past 500MB, your time has come. Philips has agreed settle a class action suit against it by repairing, replacing the drives or offering rebates to those who already sold the dives.

A class-action suit was filed against Philips last year by Philadelphia attorney Jonathan Shub after owners of the drives complained the drives failed to write past 500MB. Shub alleged in the suit that the Philips drives had a defective spring that prevented the drive from hitting the advertised specs. Most CD-R drives write to at least 650MB.

Without acknowledging fault or admitting there was a design defect, Philips agreed to settle the suit and: agreed to repair or replace the impacted drives and offer an extended two-year warranty on the drives. If the drive fails outside the two years extended warranty, the owner is entitled to a newer CDD3610 or more current model of CD-R drive.

Philips also agreed to create a $1.1 million rebate fund for those who sold their drives or bought another one to replace it. Depending on how many people apply for the rebate, consumers may be eligible for up to $200. People who apply for the rebate must prove that they were an owner of a 2000 series recorder and have not received a refund for the drive, did not have it repaired and no longer have the drive. Owners must also furnish receipts, credit card bills or manuals to prove they owned the drive.

Philips will also give five free CD-R discs to every person who sends a drive in for repair or replacement.."