14 -Quick Start & Troubleshooting GuideBattery PowerWhile you are away from an AC power supply, your computer uses a rechargeable battery (specificationsdepend on the model purchased). The battery pack can be removed (page 15), which allows you to carrymultiple batteries for long journeys, or to replace an aged battery that has lost performance.Although the battery is fully charged at the factory, transit and shelf time may reduce the initial bat-tery charge. The first time you use your computer, connect the AC power adapter and charge thebattery completely.Battery LifeBattery life depends on how the computer is used, the battery's capacity and the computer's design. Batterieswill start to perform less effectively with age (50% of maximum battery life when new).Extending Battery LifeWhile on the road, it is important to be aware of the simple things you can do to extend the life of thecomputer's main battery. Turning down the screen brightness extends battery life (most computers reducescreen brightness automatically when using battery power). Battery life is best under the following conditions:• The battery is new and fully charged.• No peripherals (such as ExpressCards) or options (such as Wireless LAN features) are active or connectedto your computer.• The computer's hard disk drive, optical drive and processor are idling or under low load.• Power management features are active.• Certain battery types require maintenance to avoid a reduction in battery life.Replacing BatteriesBattery packs can be removed and replaced. Read the precautions on handling the battery (page 14) beforechanging the battery.A small lithium battery (‘CMOS’ battery) in some computers maintains basic configuration information (suchas the time and date). In the event that the battery fails to maintain this information, we recommend thatyou contact a qualified technician who may replace this battery.Handling the BatteryRead the following before handling the computer's battery.Use the batteries only in the system for which they are designed. Mixing batteries from other com-puters, batteries from other manufacturers or using a combination of very old and new batteries candeteriorate battery and equipment performance.• Turn the computer off after use.• Clean the battery terminals with a dry cloth if they get dirty.• When not in use, store the battery in a cool dry area.• Keep the battery out of the reach of children.PrecautionsTo prevent accidental battery ignition, rupture, or explosion, adhere to the following precautions.There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same orequivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manu-facturer's instructions.To avoid personal injury and property damage, read these battery precautions on handling, charging,and disposing Li-Ion or NiMH batteries.