74 Mobile Computing
Monitoring battery power
HINT: Be careful not to confuse the battery light ( ), the power
light ( ), and the power button light.
When the power light or power button light flashes amber, it
indicates that the system is suspended (using the Windows®
operating system Sleep command).
(Sample Illustration) Power and battery light locations
Determining remaining battery power
Wait a few moments after turning on the computer before trying to
monitor the remaining battery power. The computer needs this time
to check the battery’s remaining capacity and perform its
calculations.
Move the pointer over the power icon in the notification area, see
“Finding your way around the desktop” on page 84 for more
information on the notification area. A pop-up message displays the
remaining battery power as a percentage.
With repeated discharges and recharges, the battery’s capacity
gradually decreases. A frequently used older battery does not power
the computer for as long as a new battery, even when both are fully
charged.
AC power light/Battery light
System indicator lights
ON/OFF light
Wireless indicator light
NOTE