Basic Operation 
Taking Care of Your Notebook 
 
44  Reference Guide 
 
To safeguard your data 
?? Do not use the touch pad or activate any other device that interrupts operation while 
the system is starting or stopping. 
?? Back up your work regularly. Copy files to floppy, tape, CD-RW, or network drives. 
?? Use a virus-scanning program (such as the Norton AntiVirus program included with 
your notebook) to check the integrity of your files and operating system. Since new 
viruses appear frequently, you will also want to update the program’s virus definitions 
from time to time; updates are on the Web at www.symantec.com. 
?? Check your disk periodically using the Tools tab in the disk’s Properties window.  
To extend the life of the display 
?? Set the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level (Fn+F1).  
?? When working at your desk, connect an external monitor and turn off the internal 
display (Fn+F5). 
?? If you are not using an external monitor, set the Turn off monitor timeouts (for both 
AC and battery operation) to the shortest comfortable interval.  
?? Avoid using a screen saver or other software that prevents the notebook from going 
on standby after a timeout period. If you use a screen saver, enable the option to shut 
off the display after a time delay. 
?? Do not disable the standby timeout. 
?? If you are using AC power and have no external monitor attached, put the notebook 
on standby or into hibernation when not in use. 
To clean your notebook 
You can clean your notebook with a soft cloth dampened with clean water or with water 
containing a mild detergent.  
?? Do not use an excessively wet cloth or allow water inside the case.  
?? Do not use any abrasive cleaners, especially on the display. Do not apply any cleaner 
directly to the display. Instead, apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and then gently wipe 
the display.  
?? You can clean the keyboard with a vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated dust.