subject: ten ways to extend your laptop's battery life [print this page] ten ways to extend your laptop's battery life
A short battery life can largely dampen your ability to use your laptop. It is quite distracting to constantly have to be in search of an outlet so that you can recharge your quickly diminishing battery power. There are, however, ways in which you can extend the life of your laptop battery, regardless of the type of laptop which you possess. Whether you own a Toshiba laptop, an HP laptop, or one of the many types of Dell laptops, these following tips can help you to maintain battery power for longer periods of time:
Tip #1 Dim Screen
In order to do your work, you probably don't need your screen to be on the brightest setting. Instead, dim your screen and save some battery life this way.
Tip #2 Remove External Devices
Devices such as your mouse or USB drive can drain the battery power. When you do not need to use these items, shut them down and disconnect them from your computer. Additionally, buy a wall charger and charge your iPod there instead of in your computer as this can quickly drain your power.
Tip #3 Purchase Additional RAM
Extra RAM will allow you to utilize more memory actually present on the computer instead of having to use virtual memory, which requires the use of the hard drive. Virtual memory is renowned for draining battery life. RAM will require additional energy but, if you typically use large amounts of virtual memory, the extra RAM could actually help conserve power.
Tip #4 Defrag
The quicker the hard drive is able to work, the less energy is required. In order to increase hard drive efficiency, defrag often.
Tip #5 Clean Battery Contacts
Clean the metal contacts of the battery every other month using rubbing alcohol. This makes the use of battery power more efficient.
Tip #6 Hibernate
Instead of using standby, hibernate your computer when not in use as this will save power. Not only will this save power, it will also enable you to begin where you left off when you next use your laptop.
Tip #7 Shut Down Background Programs
Instead of having multiple programs open at once, which can reduce battery power quickly, only leave the ones that are essential open.
Tip #8 Don't Work on Multiple Projects At Once
Using multiple programs at once can dramatically reduce battery life.
Tip #9 Make Sure Computer is Cool
A cooler computer will use less battery power. Make sure that the air vents on the laptop are clean. You can clean the area using a keyboard cleaner or a soft cloth.
Tip #10 Use Optimal Power Options
Use the max battery option on the computer. This can be adjusted by going to the power options section on your laptop's control panel.
