Using a Battery 43Configuring Power Management SettingsYou can use the QuickSet Power Management Wizard or Windows Power Options Properties toconfigure the power management settings on your computer.• To access the QuickSet Power Management Wizard, double-click the icon in the taskbar. For moreinformation about QuickSet, click the Help button in the Power Management Wizard.• To access the Power Options Properties window, click Start→ Control Panel→ Performance andMaintenance→ Power Options. For information on any field in the Power Options Propertieswindow, click the question mark icon on the title bar and then click on the area corresponding to theinformation that you need.Charging the BatteryNOTE: With Dell™ ExpressCharge™, the AC adapter charges a completely discharged 6-cell battery inapproximately 1 hour with the computer turned off. Charge time is longer with the computer turned on and also withthe higher-capacity 9-cell battery. You can leave the battery in the computer as long as you like. The battery’sinternal circuitry prevents the battery from overcharging.When you connect the computer to an electrical outlet or install a battery while the computer isconnected to an electrical outlet, the computer checks the battery charge and temperature. If necessary,the AC adapter then charges the battery and maintains the battery charge.If the battery is hot from being used in your computer or being in a hot environment, the battery maynot charge when you connect the computer to an electrical outlet.The battery is too hot to start charging if the light flashes alternately green and orange. Disconnectthe computer from the electrical outlet and allow the computer and the battery to cool to roomtemperature. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet to continue charging the battery.For more information about resolving problems with a battery, see "Power Problems" on page 100.Replacing the BatteryFor instructions about how to replace the main battery, see "Before Working Inside Your Computer" onpage 114.Storing a BatteryRemove the battery when you store your computer for an extended period of time. A battery dischargesduring prolonged storage. After a long storage period, recharge the battery fully (see "Charging theBattery" on page 43) before you use it.
