Laptop Care and Use

1/24/09

Rugged Laptop Video

Power Up and Shut Down

1) The power button can be used to turn your laptop on and off, but there are other ways to turn your laptop off that will keep your laptop hard drive healthy.  You should always close all programs and select start, then shut down.

2) If your computer locks up, try Control + Alt + Delete before you use the power button to shut down.

3) Always turn the laptop off before placing it into the carrying case.  It could overheat!

4) Run your laptop plugged into an electrical outlet as often as possible.  This will help preserve battery life.

5) Always unplug when not in use.

6) Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area when it is use.  If it is covered with items it will reduce cooling.  Also, make sure the cord is in a place where it will not be tripped over.

General Precautions

1) Do not eat or drink around your laptop.  Accidents can and will happen.

2) Never leave your laptop in a car because laptops are sensitive to extreme temperature.   This will also help avoid theft.  If you happen to leave it in a car allow time for the computer to adjust temperature before you use it. 

3) Never leave your laptop or case unattended.

4) Never lend you laptop to someone else.

5) Keep backups on removable storage to avoid losing work.

6) Always operate your laptop on a hard surface to allow for ventilation.

Screen Care

1) Do not press on the screen from the outside or inside of the laptop.  This could damage the LCD panel.

2) Clean the screen with a soft cloth (like an old T-shirt).  Do not spay cleaner directly on the screen.  Spray it on the cloth first.  Do not use harsh chemical agents on the screen.  Clean the rest of your laptop with compressed air.

Carrying Case

1) Always use your carrying case to transport your laptop. 

2) Don’t put other objects in the compartment with your laptop.  This will protect your laptop from unnecessary damage.  Keep other compartments contents to a minimum to avoid putting pressure on the laptop.

Where to go for help

1) Call 910-962-HELP.  This is the UNCW Technology Assistance Center (TAC).

2) ITSD – http://www.uncw.edu/itsd

3) Software help – http://myseaport.uncw.edu

4) More information and resources http://uncw.edu/itsd/students/index.html