Your laptop battery charges whenever your computer is plugged into external power through an AC Adapter, an optional power adapter, or an optional docking device. The battery charges whether the computer is off or in use, but it charges faster when the computer is off. However, charging may take longer if a battery is new, has been unused for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer or cooler than room temperature.

To prolong battery life and optimize the accuracy of battery charge displays, follow these recommendations:

• If you are charging a new battery, charge it for a full 12 hours before turning on the computer.
• Charge the battery until the battery light turns off (If the computer is on while the battery is charging, the battery meter in the notification area may show 100 percent charge before the battery is fully charged.)
• Allow the battery to discharge below 5 percent of a full charge through normal use before charging it. This is called ‘exercising’ your battery.
• If the battery has been unused for one month or more, calibrate the battery instead of simply charging it.
• DO NOT drop, open, short circuit, burn or allow the battery to get wet.