Dell Vostro 1000 Microsoft Windows Power Meter, Charge Gauge, Check the Battery Charge

Microsoft® Windows® Power Meter

The Windows Power Meter indicates the remaining battery charge. To check

the Power Meter, double-click the icon on the taskbar. For instructions on accessing more information about the Power Meter, see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 58.

If the computer is connected to an electrical outlet, a icon appears.

Charge Gauge

By either pressing once or pressing and holding the status button on the charge gauge on the battery, you can check:

•Battery charge (check by pressing and releasing the status button)

•Battery health (check by pressing and holding the status button)

The battery operating time is largely determined by the number of times it is charged. After hundreds of charge and discharge cycles, batteries lose some charge capacity—or battery health. That is, a battery can show a status of "charged" but maintain a reduced charge capacity (health).

Check the Battery Charge

To check the battery charge, press and release the status button on the battery charge gauge to illuminate the charge-level lights. Each light represents approximately 20 percent of the total battery charge. For example, if four of the lights are on, the battery has 80 percent of its charge remaining. If no lights appear, the battery has no charge.

Check the Battery Health

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 "Specifications" on page 167 for more information about the battery operating time.

Using a Battery

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