For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the battery installed at all times. One

battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.

NOTE:

Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the

computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, click the Start

button, point to Control Panel® Power Options, and click the Power Meter tab.

NOTE:

Battery operating time (the time the battery can operate the computer) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and

the conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.

Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions.

Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:

Using optical drives

Using wireless communications devices, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices

Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as complex 3D graphics applications

Running the computer in maximum performance mode (See Power Management Modes.)

NOTE:

It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.

You can check the

battery charge

charge is low.

CAUTION:

Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased

from Dell. The battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.

CAUTION:

Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or

environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.

CAUTION:

Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to

temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged

batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.

Checking the Battery Charge

The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and

warning provide information on the battery charge.

NOTE:

Dell QuickSet may not be available on your computer.

Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter

If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter window. The Battery Meter window displays status, battery health, charge

level, and charge completion time for the battery in your computer.

NOTE:

You can use your docking device to charge a computer battery. However, a battery in a docking device does not power the docking device or

computer.

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

before you insert the battery into the computer. You can also set power management options to alert you when the battery

icon, the battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery

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