Using a battery, Battery performance, Checking the battery charge – Dell Precision M65 User Manual
Page 11: Dell™ quickset battery meter
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Using a Battery
User's Guide
Configuring Power Management Settings
Battery Performance
For optimal computer performance and to help preserve BIOS settings, operate your Dell™ portable computer with the main battery installed at all times. One
battery is supplied as standard equipment in the battery bay.
Battery operating time varies depending on operating conditions. You can install an optional second battery in the media bay to significantly increase
operating time.
Operating time is significantly reduced when you perform operations including, but not limited to, the following:
l
Using optical drives
l
Using wireless communications devices, PC Cards, ExpressCards, media memory cards, or USB devices
l
Using high-brightness display settings, 3D screen savers, or other power-intensive programs such as 3D games
l
Running the computer in maximum performance mode (see
Configuring Power Management Settings
You can check the battery charge before you insert the battery into the computer (see
). You can also set power management
options to alert you when the battery charge is low (see
Configuring Power Management Settings
).
Checking the Battery Charge
The Dell QuickSet Battery Meter, the Microsoft Windows Power Meter window and
icon, the
battery charge gauge and health gauge, and the low-battery warning provide information on the battery charge.
Dell™ QuickSet Battery Meter
If Dell QuickSet is installed, press <Fn><F3> to display the QuickSet Battery Meter. The Battery Meter displays status, battery health, charge level, and charge
completion time for the battery in your computer.
For more information about QuickSet, right-click the
icon in the taskbar, and click Help.
NOTE:
For information about the Dell warranty for your computer, see the Product Information Guide or separate paper warranty document that shipped
with your computer.
NOTE:
Because the battery may not be fully charged, use the AC adapter to connect your new computer to an electrical outlet the first time you use the
computer. For best results, operate the computer with the AC adapter until the battery is fully charged. To view battery charge status, access the
Control Panel® Power Options, and then click the Power Meter tab.
NOTE:
Battery operating time (the time the battery can hold a charge) decreases over time. Depending on how often the battery is used and the
conditions under which it is used, you may need to purchase a new battery during the life of your computer.
NOTE:
It is recommended that you connect your computer to an electrical outlet when writing to a CD or DVD.
CAUTION:
Using an incompatible battery may increase the risk of fire or explosion. Replace the battery only with a compatible battery purchased
from Dell. The lithium ion battery is designed to work with your Dell computer. Do not use a battery from other computers with your computer.
CAUTION:
Do not dispose of batteries with household waste. When your battery no longer holds a charge, call your local waste disposal or
environmental agency for advice on disposing of a lithium-ion battery. See "Battery Disposal" in the Product Information Guide.
CAUTION:
Misuse of the battery may increase the risk of fire or chemical burn. Do not puncture, incinerate, disassemble, or expose the battery to
temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Keep the battery away from children. Handle damaged or leaking batteries with extreme care. Damaged
batteries may leak and cause personal injury or equipment damage.