2–16 Reference Guide
Basic Operation
Taking Care of Your Notebook
Follow these recommendations to maintain your notebook during
everyday use and prevent potential physical damage or data loss.

To Prot ect Your H ard Drive

Hard drives, as well as other internal components, are not
indestructible and can be damaged by inappropriate handling and
operation.
■Avoid bumps or jolts.
■Do not operate the notebook while traveling over bumpy
terrain.
■Put the notebook in Standby or shut it down before
transporting it. This turns off the hard drive. A drop of a few
inches onto a rigid surface while the hard drive is operating
could destroy data or damage the drive.
■Carry the notebook in a padded case to protect against bumps
and jolts.
■Set down the notebook gently.

To Maintain Your Notebook

■Provide adequate ventilation around the notebook. Always
set the notebook on a flat surface, so that air can flow freely
around and underneath it.
■Always shut down the notebook or put it in Hibernation mode
before putting it into a carrying case or other enclosed space.
■Do not pick up or carry the notebook by its display.
■Do not use the notebook outside in the rain or snow
(inclement weather). If the notebook is cold, warm it
gradually to avoid condensation.
■Maintain your battery pack for best performance. See the
“Battery Packs and Power Management” chapter.