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Using a Battery 55
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.
book.book Page 55 Friday, October 19, 2007 2:03 PM