Basic Operation 
Taking Care of Your Computer 
46  Corporate Evaluator’s Guide 
Taking Care of Your Computer 
Use the following recommendations to maintain your computer during everyday use and 
prevent potential physical damage or data loss.  
To protect your hard disk drive 
Hard disk drives, as well as other internal components, are not indestructible and can be 
damaged by inappropriate handling and operation. 
•  Avoid bumps or jolts. 
•  Do not operate the computer while traveling over bumpy terrain. 
•  Suspend or shut down the computer before transporting it. This turns off the hard 
drive. A drop of a few inches onto a rigid surface while the hard drive is operating 
could destroy data or damage the drive. 
•  Carry the computer in a padded case to protect against bumps and jolts. 
•  Set down the computer gently. 
To maintain your computer 
•  Provide adequate ventilation around the computer. Always set the computer on a flat 
surface, so that air can flow freely around and underneath it.  
•  Always shut down the computer or put it in Hibernate mode before putting it in a 
carrying case or other enclosed space. 
•  Do not pick up or carry the computer by its display. 
•  Observe the temperature limits and other specifications listed in “Hardware 
Specifications” on page 196. Do not use the computer outside in the rain or snow 
(inclement weather). If the computer is cold, warm it gradually to avoid condensation.