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How to Prolong Your Notebook Computer Life

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By e-Rambler
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Prolong your notebook life
Prolong your notebook life
eHow member: e-Rambler

People often search for ways to prolong the life of their notebook; laptop. Computers are not cheap, this is particularly true with notebook computers so protect your investment wisely. Steps below are ways to prolong your notebook computer life.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Notebook computer
  • Microsoft Windows operating system
  1. Step 1

    - - Update Windows O.S. - -

    Download new updates for Windows time to time for the purpose of enhancing security and stability of your operating system.

  2. Step 2

    - - Improve Security - -

    All security software needs to be kept up to date. Malware is all over the Internet and can really wreck havoc to your notebook computer. If you use the Internet a lot, do not keep your browsing history for more than 5 days. You should clean out your Internet cache (temporary internet files) once a week, remove unwanted email, and update your security software at least once each month.

  3. Step 3

    - - Moving Your Notebook Computer - -

    When traveling, in order to secure your notebook computer and to resist more shock, always use appropriate carrying bag or case. The specially designed padded notebook case can protect it from severe damage if you accidentally drop your laptop.

    If you need to ship your notebook computer through FedEx or like carrier, make sure you use packaging specifically made for transporting notebook computers.

  4. Step 4

    - - Preventing Shock - -

    Notebook computers are designed for mobility, but this does not mean that they are indestructible. In fact, notebook computers are prone to shocks even to those equipped with shock-absorbing materials. Always handle your notebook computer carefully and gently. Turn off your notebook computer before you move in between places, many people don't realize moving around with a working notebook computer greatly shortens the life of internal moving parts.

    It is a good idea to use your laptop computer on a shock-absorbing stand. You can find stands at office or electronics supply stores, they look like notebook cooling pads. There are also combo stands (cooling fans + shock-absorbing pads) that you can get.

  5. Step 5

    - - Heat, Humidity, and Dust - -

    When using your notebook computer, never put it directly on a surface
    that prevents adequate air flow, e.g. on a pillow or blanket, on heat absorbing surface like metal, inside the laptop case. Frequently check that vents are not blocked. If needed, a mobile cooling pad can help in dissipate heat.

    Prevent spills if you like enjoying beverage while working with your notebook computer. Liquid kills computer quickly.

    All electronics are sensitive to dust, especially computers. You should never leave your notebook computer on a floor or on surface with dirt or dust. Periodically clean your screen with screen wipes and use wet wipes for the keyboard. Make sure the vents are not obstructed by dust.

  6. Step 6

    - - Drain the Battery - -

    Completely discharge your notebook battery once a month. This is to refresh the battery memory so it will get a full charge each time for its "current" capacity. Notebook battery capacity diminishes with usage.

    Run your notebook power source, i.e. wall outlet, instead of the notebook battery, it will lengthen the battery life. Lithium-Ion battery has a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, or approximately 1,200 charge cycles under normal operating conditions.

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