Taking Care of Your Laptop Over the Holidays

Shut down your computer when it won't be used for an extended duration

Putting your computer to sleep and not using it for several days may drain the battery to a point where it can no longer accept a charge.

Wait until the sleep light on the front of the computer pulses before moving it

When you put your laptop to sleep by closing the display the hard drive continues to spin briefly while saving data.  Moving the computer abruptly before the sleep light pulses may damage the hard drive and cause data loss.

Use and store your computer in a safe place

To avoid spill damage never eat or drink while using your laptop.  When not in use keep it in it's protective case.  Don't leave it on the floor where it might be stepped on, or within reach of small children or pets.  Don't leave it in a car or anywhere it might be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Be sure to follow proper cleaning procedures to keep your screen looking new

Never use cleaning products with harsh chemicals like acetone or ammonia.  Use a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with water or screen cleaning solution and use very gentle pressure on the display surface.

Clean out your laptop carry bag

Take time over the winter break to clean out your laptop bag, removing items like paper clips that can scratch the exterior of your laptop.  Put a sheet of Bounce inside your bag to help reduce static electricity in the cold, dry winter months and help it smell fresher.