Cape Town IT services tips – extending your notebook life

There is no doubt that notebooks offer the most convenient way to connect on the go, and as Cape Town IT services companies cater more and more to these mobile devices in offices and homes alike. Much as notebooks and laptops are convenient, fast and mostly reliable, the life-span of one of these machines is usually far lower than a desktop PC. To help you get the most out of your notebook, consider these expert tips from a leading Cape Town IT services company:

1.       Always ensure that your battery is well maintained

Your notebook battery holds the key to its longevity – that means that you need to look after the battery to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Try recharging your battery when it get to 10% – 20% charge, as letting it reach 0% will only weaken the battery. It is also recommended to remove the battery if you are using the notebook when plugged in to your power supply, as this will also preserve the battery. Turning off WiFi and Bluetooth when you are not using these will also help your battery lasting longer too. Only use the battery when there is no power source or when you are on the go, say Cape Town IT outsourcing experts.

2.       Always avoid letting your notebook overheat

When notebooks are used for a few hours or more, they can overheat. This can cause your notebook to shut down, and it can also cause damage to parts and the battery so it is essential to avoid this from happening.The best way to do this is to turn it off before putting it in its case, and to avoid leaving it in a hot car or using it in your car or any other small and confined spaces where heat can build up.

3.       Always allow the air vents enough air to cool the system down

Air vents on a notebook are there for a reason – to help the computer prevent overheating. One of the biggest mistakes that some users make is to block the air vents, causing the system to overheat. Never put your notebook on a soft surface like a bed where the blankets or pillows can block the vents, and keep your notebook on a hard surface with nothing in the way of the air vents. Cape Town IT services experts advise that one of the best ways to ensure that your vents stay clear is to consider using a notebook stand or even better a notebook cooler that has a fan to keep the system cool when it's in use.

4.       Always clean your notebook carefully

Another common mistake that users make is to not keep the screen and keyboard clean, or to use abrasive clothes or harsh products when cleaning the notebook. There are minerals in tap water that could leave marks on the screen, so use distilled water instead or a cleaner designed for cleaning screens. Avoid using solvents such as glass cleaner, and do not use paper towel as it can cause scratches. Use a lint-free dry microfiber cloth instead to gently remove dust from the screen. Also try not to touch the LCD as it leaves fingerprints that can cause permanent marks.