Using a Battery 456Using a BatteryBattery TypesSee "Specifications" on page 131 for information on supported batteries.Battery PerformanceCAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in theProduct Information Guide.NOTE: For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide orseparate paper warranty document that shipped with your computer.For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. Use a battery to run thecomputer when it is not connected to an electrical outlet. One battery is supplied as standardequipment in the battery bay.NOTE: Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computerto an electrical outlet the first time you use the computer. For best results, operate the computer with theAC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access the Control Panel→Power Options→ Power Meter tab.Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.NOTE: Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Dependingon how often the battery is used and the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase anew battery during the life of your computer.Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limitedto, the following:• Using optical drives• Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, or USB devices• Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programssuch as 3D games• Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see page 40)NOTE: It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CDor DVD.book.book Page 45 Wednesday, October 26, 2005 1:00 PM
