Check the Battery Health

NOTE: You can check battery health in one of two ways: by using the charge gauge on the battery as described below and by using the Battery Meter in Dell QuickSet. For information about QuickSet, right-click the icon in the taskbar, and click Help.

To check the battery health using the charge gauge, press and hold the status button on the battery charge gauge for at least 3 seconds. If no lights appear, the battery is in good condition, and more than 80 percent of its original charge capacity remains. Each light represents incremental degradation. If five lights appear, less than 60 percent of the charge capacity remains, and you should consider replacing the battery. See "Charge Gauge" on page 34 for more information about the battery operating time.

Low-Battery Warning

NOTICE: To avoid losing or corrupting data, save your work immediately after a low-battery warning. Then connect the computer to an electrical outlet, or install a second battery in the media bay. If the battery runs completely out of power, hibernate mode begins automatically.

A pop-up window warns you when the battery charge is approximately 90 percent depleted. If two batteries are installed, the low-battery warning means that the combined charge of both batteries is approximately 90 percent depleted. The computer enters hibernate mode when the battery charge is at a critically low level.

You can change the settings for the battery alarms in QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window. See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 37 for information about accessing QuickSet or the Power Options Properties window.

Conserving Battery Power

Perform the following actions to conserve battery power:

Connect the computer to an electrical outlet when possible because battery life is largely determined by the number of times the battery is used and recharged.

Place the computer in standby mode or hibernate mode when you leave the computer unattended for long periods of time. See "Power Management Modes" on page 36.

Use the Power Management Wizard or the Power Options Properties window to select options to optimize your computer’s power usage. These options can also be set to change when you press the power button, close the display, or press <Fn><Esc>.

NOTE: See "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 37 for information on conserving battery power.

Using a Battery

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Dell PP24L manual Conserving Battery Power, Low-Battery Warning, Check the Battery Health

PP24L specifications

The Dell PP24L, also known as the Dell Latitude E6430, is a robust and reliable laptop that has been designed primarily for business professionals and frequent travelers. This laptop combines functionality with durability, making it an ideal choice for those who require a dependable workhorse that can withstand daily use.

One of the standout features of the Dell PP24L is its solid build quality. It utilizes a magnesium alloy chassis and a brushed aluminum lid, which not only provide a premium feel but also enhance durability. The laptop has passed various military-grade tests, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions like high temperatures, vibrations, and humidity.

In terms of performance, the PP24L is equipped with Intel’s third-generation Core processors, offering a range of options from i3 to i7. This ensures that users can select the right balance of power and efficiency for their tasks, whether it's basic document editing or demanding applications. The laptop supports up to 16GB of RAM, allowing for seamless multitasking and improved performance for more intensive applications.

The Dell PP24L also features a 14-inch display with an option for HD (1366 x 768) or HD+ (1600 x 900) resolution. The anti-glare screen is designed to reduce reflections, making it easier to work in various lighting conditions, a significant advantage for professionals who often find themselves in different environments.

Connectivity is another area where the Dell PP24L shines. It offers a range of ports, including USB 3.0, USB 2.0, HDMI, and a VGA port, as well as an optional ExpressCard slot and Smart Card reader for enhanced security features. This wide range of ports ensures that users can connect to various devices and peripherals without needing additional dongles or adapters.

Battery life is critical for mobile professionals, and the Dell PP24L does not disappoint in this aspect. It can be configured with different battery options, including a 6-cell or a high-capacity 9-cell battery, providing the flexibility needed for extensive use without the need for constant recharging.

In conclusion, the Dell PP24L is a versatile and durable laptop that meets the needs of business professionals and frequent travelers. With its solid build quality, powerful performance options, excellent connectivity, and long battery life, it continues to be a preferred choice for those seeking reliability in their computing devices.