Laptop Notebook Computer

Here's a report from South Africa on a type of computer notebook ideal for when you're working without power.

It won't last indefinitely but it will give you a few hours.

Here are more details:

Packed with features and benefits, load-shedding has added even more to the appeal of a notebook. Effective and convenient, Philip Henning, Acer product manager, Axiz says they're no longer just the answer for more independent, mobile employees, but rather a long-term solution to South Africa's power supply problems. Especially with batteries now being made to last that much longer.

"With power cuts and load-shedding currently so unpredictable, a notebook enables you to keep working whether the lights are on or off," says Henning.

convertible notebook computer

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"Best of all, it also makes the transition between electricity and battery power seamlessly - meaning you don't lose everything you've forgotten to save the moment the power trips."

Henning adds that whether you choose to invest that little bit more in an additional or long-life battery, by taking proper care of your notebook battery, you'll be able to use each valuable second of its power.

Here's how to do this...

1) Turn off your wireless and Bluetooth. These are usually switched on as a default. Even when they're not connected, they consume valuable power.

2) Stay away from multimedia. Multimedia activities like computer games, music or DVDs are an instant way of draining battery power.

3) Use your hard drive more. Copy programs from DVDs or CDs and run these from your hard drive. This uses far less energy than your optical drive.

4) Disconnect external devices. USB devices, PC card modems and optical drives all zap energy from your battery - as does an external mouse.

5) Tweak your power options. Select a power setting that turns off your notebook monitor and hard drive after 10 minutes of inactivity.

6) Dim your display. Adjusting your screen's brightness will save you battery power.

7) Turn off. Turn off all scheduled tasks, as well as auto-save features in Microsoft Office and other applications.
Turn down. Mute or decrease your notebook speaker volume.

As to whether to use "stand by" or "hibernate", Henning says this depends on how long you will be away from your computer. "Standby saves you power when you're not using your computer for a short period of time. Your screen and hard drive turn off, and all of your applications and open files are stored in the notebook's RAM. As soon as you move your mouse again or hit a key, your desktop will be restored exactly as you left it."

In contrast, hibernation mode should be used when you're away from your computer for a longer period. "In this situation, your notebook shuts down to conserve power, but first saves everything on your hard drive."

Henning explains that the biggest misconception about notebook batteries is that you "save" them by not using them. "The average battery needs to be completely drained and recharged at least once a month. This increases its ability to hold a charge. By leaving your battery in your notebook while using an electrical outlet for long periods of time, you keep charging it - and actually reduce its lifecycle."

With some batteries offering you up to 12 hours of work time, notebooks have just become the new best friends of all South Africans. By using your battery selectively (at times when you know there will be power!) and regularly, you'll ensure you keep benefiting from all the advantages of mobility - with or without the lights on.