MacBook battery life and power management settings


Extend MacBook Battery Life

How long your battery lasts during any given computer session depends on how you are using your computer. Watching a DVD on your MacBook will drain the battery much faster than using the photo editor or surfing the Internet. The more features and programs you use, the more power is required in battery mode to keep your computer running.

Even if your MacBook is your primary computer and you don't travel frequently, don't exclusively run your laptop on AC power. The battery needs to be used at least occasionally to maximize its performance and life span. Make sure you use your MacBook on battery power and complete one full charge cycle at least once per month.

The easiest way to extend the life of your battery is to turn off features that you aren't using. For example, if you do not need to connect to the Internet, turning off the wireless capabilities (AirPort and Bluetooth) will save you significant battery power because, although you aren't connecting to the Internet, your computer is always looking for available network connections when these features are on.

If you aren't using the optical drive on your MacBook, remove any CD or DVD that is in the drive. Every now and then your MacBook will check the drive and read your disc, so removing any media you aren't using will save this small amount of power.

Another easy way to save power when using your computer is to disconnect any peripheral devices that you have connected, such as a digital camera, iPod, or printer. Even when not in use, these devices can draw small amounts of power from your battery's stores. You should also set the screen brightness to the lowest but most comfortable level for your conditions.

If you're using your laptop in low light conditions, you won't need the screen brightness turned all the way up. Dimming the screen will save quite a lot of power over time. To change your screen's brightness, press f1 (darker) or f2 (brighter) until you find the right setting that's comfortable for you.

Optimize Your Power Management Settings

Your MacBook's System Preferences pane has some handy features that let you determine how your battery power is managed. If you frequently use your laptop on battery power, you can access these power management settings and adjust them to conserve power.

You can also check the boxes to tell your MacBook to put the hard disk to sleep whenever possible and to keep the computer screen dim when using the battery.

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This article was sent to us by: Kyle Bailey at 11012010

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