How to Switch to Battery Power

Laptops' and netbooks' portability is made possible by utilizing a lightweight battery. Having a battery-powered computer comes in handy during travel, if the power goes out, or if you wish to work in a public place such as a coffee shop or library. From time to time, your laptop will need to be plugged in to recharge. While your laptop is plugged in, you can still use your computer.

• 1

  Check the power indicator lights on the front of your laptop. There should be a light shaped like a small battery or lightning bolt. If this light is green, your laptop is fully charged. If it is yellow or orange, expect to only have a portion of your battery's full capacity available.

• 2

  Unplug the power cord from your laptop.

• 3

  Check the power icon on the taskbar located at the bottom right of your monitor. If it has switched from a plug to a battery, you are now operating on battery power. Make sure your laptop has sufficient battery power to keep operating. Mouse over the battery icon in your taskbar. This displays how much battery time you have left before you need to plug it in again.