Basic Operation

Taking Care of Your Notebook

To safeguard your data

Do not use a pointing device or activate any other device that interrupts operation while the system is starting or stopping.

Back up your work regularly. Copy files to diskettes, CDs, DVDs, and other media, or network drives.

Use a virus-scanning program (such as the Norton AntiVirus program included with your notebook) to check the integrity of your files and operating system.

Check your disk using the Tools tab in the disk Properties window.

To extend the life of the display

Set the display brightness to the lowest comfortable level (Fn+F1).

If you are not using an external monitor, set the Turn off monitor timeouts (for both AC and battery operation) to the shortest comfortable interval.

Avoid using a screen saver or other software that prevents the notebook from changing to Display-off or Standby mode after a timeout period. If you use a screen saver, enable the option to shut off the display after a time delay.

Do not disable Display-off or Standby timeouts.

If you are using AC power and have no external monitor attached, put the notebook in Standby mode when not in use.

To clean your notebook

You can clean the notebook with a soft cloth dampened with clean water or with water containing a mild detergent. Do not use an excessively wet cloth, and take care to keep water out of the case.

Do not use abrasive cleaners, especially on the display. Do not apply any cleaner directly to the display. Instead, apply the cleaner to a soft cloth, then gently wipe the display.

28 Reference Guide