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•Turn off auto-save features in Microsoft Office and other applications.

•Copy programs from CDs or DVDs to the hard drive so you do not use battery power by running optical drives.

•Use the CD or DVD drive only when necessary. This drive uses a large amount of power.

•Recharge the battery(ies) often, take an extra battery, and fully recharge the batteries before traveling. For more information, see “Recharging the battery(ies)” on page 58.

Tip

For more information about traveling with your notebook, see “Traveling with Your Notebook” on page 71.

Using alternate power sources

To extend battery life, use alternate power sources whenever possible.

•Iftravelinginternationally,take electricaladapters.Save the battery(ies) for times when you cannot use a power adapter. If you plan on taking your AC power adapter, also take a single-plug surge protector.

•If you will have access to an EmPower™ in-flight power receptacle, an automobile power outlet, or an automobile cigarette lighter, use an airplane/ automobile power adapter or power inverter. Save the battery(ies) for times when you cannot use a power adapter.

•To find AC power outlets in airports, look for them next to support pillars, in large areas such as boarding gates, and under banks of telephones.

Changing power modes

You can use the following power modes to lengthen the life of your notebook’s battery(ies):

•Standby - while your notebook is in Standby mode, it switches to a low power state where devices, such as the display and drives, turn off.

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