Checking the battery status
Move your pointer to the battery-status icon in the Windows notification area to check the battery status. The
battery-status icon displays the percentage of battery power remaining and how long you can use your
computer before you must charge the battery.
The rate at which you use battery power determines how long you can use the battery of your computer
between charges. Because every computer user has individual habits and needs, it is difficult to predict how
long a battery charge lasts. There are two main factors:
• How much energy is stored in the battery when you begin to work
• The way you use your computer, for example:
– How often you access the storage drive
– How bright you make the computer display
– How often you use the wireless feature
Charging the battery
When you find that the remaining battery power is low, charge your battery or replace the battery with a
charged battery.
If an ac outlet is convenient, connect the computer to ac power. The battery is fully charged in about four to
eight hours. The actual charging time depends on the battery size, the physical environment, and whether
you are using the computer. You can check the battery charging status at any time through the battery-
status icon in the Windows notification area.
Note: To maximize the life of the battery, the computer does not start recharging the battery if the remaining
power is greater than 95%.
When to charge the battery
• Battery charging is affected by its temperature. The recommended temperature range for charging the
battery is between 10°C (50°F) and 35°C (95°F).
Note: To check the battery temperature, do the following:
1. Open Lenovo Vantage. See “Accessing Lenovo programs” on page 12.
2. Click Hardware Settings ➙ Power.
3. Locate the Power Status section and then click Show Details to view the battery temperature.
• Charge the battery in any of the following conditions:
– A new battery is installed.
– The percentage of power remaining is low.
– The battery has not been used for a long time.
Maximizing the battery life
To maximize the life of the battery, do the following:
• Use the battery until the charge is depleted.
• Recharge the battery completely before using it. You can see whether the battery is fully charged from the
battery-status icon in the Windows notification area.
• Always use power management features such as power-saving modes.
Chapter 2. Using your computer 23
