Back to Contents PageUsing a BatteryDell™ Latitude™ D420 User's GuideBattery PerformanceFor optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Onebattery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:l Using optical drivesl Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devicesl Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as 3D gamesl Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see Configuring Power Management Settings)You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer (see Checking the Battery Charge). You can also set power managementoptions to alert you when the battery charge is low (see Configuring Power Management Settings).Checking the Battery ChargeThe Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-batterywarning provide information about the battery charge.Dell™ QuickSet Battery MeterIf Dell QuickSet is installed, press to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and chargecompletion time for the battery in your computer.For more information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.Microsoft® Windows® Power MeterThe Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar.If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.Battery Performance Configuring Power Management SettingsChecking the Battery Charge Charging the BatteryConserving Battery Power Replacing the BatteryPower Management Modes Storing a BatteryNOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document thatshipped with your computer.NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use thecomputer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access theControl Panel® Power Options, and then click the Power Meter tab.NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and theconditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.CAUTION: Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchasedfrom Dell. The lithium ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from another computer with your computer.CAUTION: Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal orenvironmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.CAUTION: Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery totemperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damagedbatteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.
