172 Traveling With Your Computer
• Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as
extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
• Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or
in an overhead storage compartment.
Travel Tips
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of
data.
NOTICE: Do not check the computer as baggage.
• Consider disabling wireless activity on your computer to maximize battery
operating time. To disable wireless activity, use the wireless switch (see
"wireless switch" on page 27
).
• Consider changing your power management options to maximize battery
operating time (see "Configuring Power Management Settings" on page 52).
• If you are traveling internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your
right to use the computer if it is company-owned—to speed your passage
through customs. Investigate the customs regulations of the countries you
plan to visit, and consider acquiring an international carnet (also known as a
merchandise passport
) from your government.
• Find out what type of electrical outlets are used in the countries you will
visit, and have appropriate power adapters.
• Check with your credit card company for information about the kinds of
emergency travel assistance it offers to users of portable computers.
Traveling by Air
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer
through an X-ray machine or have it hand-inspected.
• Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn
on the computer.
• Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some
airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid
the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.