Using the battery
When you use your computer away from electrical outlets, you depend on battery power to keep your
computer running. Different computer components consume power at different rates. The more you use the
power-intensive components, the faster you consume battery power.
Spend more time unplugged with ThinkPad batteries. Mobility has revolutionized business by enabling you to
take your work wherever you go. With ThinkPad batteries, you are able to work longer without being tied to
an electrical outlet.
Checking the battery status
Move your pointer to the battery-status icon in the Windows notification area to check the battery status. The
battery-status icon displays the percentage of battery power remaining and how long you can use your
computer before you must charge the battery.
The rate at which you use battery power determines how long you can use the battery of your computer
between charges. Because every computer user has individual habits and needs, it is difficult to predict how
long a battery charge lasts. There are two main factors:
• How much energy is stored in the battery when you begin to work
• The way you use your computer, for example:
– How often you access the storage drive
– How bright you make the computer display
– How often you use the wireless feature
Charging the battery
When you find that the remaining battery power is low, charge your battery or replace the battery with a
charged battery.
If an ac outlet is convenient, connect the computer to ac power. The battery is fully charged in about four to
eight hours. If the power adapter shipped with your computer supports the rapid charge function, the battery
is 80% charged in about an hour when the computer is turned off. The actual charging time depends on the
battery size, the physical environment, and whether you are using the computer. You can check the battery
charging status at any time through the battery-status icon in the Windows notification area.
Note: To maximize the life of the battery, the computer does not start recharging the battery if the remaining
power is greater than 95%.
Tips on charging the battery
• Before you charge the battery, ensure that the battery temperature is higher than 10°C (50°F) and lower
than 35 °C (95°F).
• Charge the battery in any of the following conditions:
– The percentage of power remaining is low.
– The battery has not been used for a long time.
Maximizing the battery life
To maximize the life of the battery, do the following:
• Use the battery until the charge is depleted.
• Recharge the battery completely before using it. You can see whether the battery is fully charged from the
battery-status icon in the Windows notification area.
Chapter 2. Using your computer 27
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