Setting Up Your Computer 41
Setting Up the Docking Device to Connect to a Network
NOTE: A network adapter is also referred to as a network interface controller (NIC).
NOTICE: Do not inst all a network adapter or a network adapter/m odem combination PC Card
until you complete the docking device setup.
NOTICE: To prevent serious operating system problems, do not connect your computer to a
docking device until the Windows op erating system setup on the computer is co mplete.
A docking device allows you to more fully integrate your portable computer into a desktop
environment.
For instructions and details on setting up a docking device, refer to the documentation that
came packaged with the devi ce .
Power Protection Dev ic es
Several devices are available to protect against power fluctuations and failures:
•Surge protectors
• Line conditioners
• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

Surge Protectors

Surge protectors and power strips equipped with surge protection help to prevent damage
to your computer from voltage spikes that can occur during electrical storms or following
power interruptions. The level of protection is usually commensurate with the cost of the
surge protector. Some surge protector manufacturers include warranty coverage for certain
types of damage. Carefully read the device warranty when choosing a surge protector. A
device with a higher joule rating offers more protection. Compare joule ratings to
determine the relative effectiveness of different devices.
NOTICE: Most surge protectors do not protect against power fluctuations or power
interruptions caused by nearby lightning strikes. When lightning occurs in your area, disconnect
the telephone line from the tele phone wall jack and disc onne ct y our com puter fro m the el ectr ic al
outlet.
Many surge protectors have a telephone jack for modem prot ection. See the surge protector
documentation for modem connection instructions.
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