How to Increase Your Laptop's Battery Life
Written by Randy Kalp Wednesday, 27 April 2011 09:09
Laptop battery life can be a pain, especially if you are traveling or on the road a lot. It's rare that my laptop's battery lasts the 5 hours that the company boasts. Luckily, there are several simple ways to get the most battery life from your laptop. The tips below really helped me when I was camping and traveling through Europe.
1. Lower the brightness: Decrease the brightness level to the possible setting that you can endure. While this is not ideal for editing pictures, I generally try to use this time sort my pictures into folders that I can then edit once I am plugged in. If you do have to edit photos, keep in mind that Photoshop is a battery vampire.
2. If you are not using an iPod or SD card reader, then unplug it: USB devices like the ones mentioned will drain a laptop battery like no ones business; it's easy to forget about these peripherals, but its key to keep them unplugged when not in use. Remember, to converse battery life make sure your computer doesn't have to work hard.
3. If not needed, turn off WiFi and/or Bluetooth: I always forget this one! The WiFi is always on and even though I'm not using the Internet at the time, it is still draining the power off the computer. Always remember to shut off the WiFi & Bluetooth so your computer isn't working extra hard trying to find possible Internet connections.
4. Remove CDs from disc drive: It's easy to forget, but a spinning disc is draining the battery. Double check and eject any discs in the drive, and watch as your battery life lasts longer.
5. For short periods in between usage place your laptop into sleep: If you are going to be away from your laptop for a bit longer use the hibernate mode.
About the Author:
Looking for more travel hacks for computers and tips for eating cheap in Paris, then visit Randy Kalp's site, BeersandBeans.com, for advice on camping in Europe and eating on a budget.