Laptop Instructions

Important Advice to Avoid Issues

Download a pdf version for printing

Getting Started 

The first thing to do when you receive your new laptop is

Connect it to your WiFi and set a laptop login password & Pin if it doesn’t already have one.  

Printers can only be set up when they are in the same building - contact us for assistance. 

General Usage Guidelines 

  • Always use your laptop on a flat, hard surface so it can cool properly. 

  • Never use it on a bed, carpet, or fabric surface as this blocks vents. 

  • Keep vents clear at all times to avoid overheating 

  • Do not cover your laptop with paperwork as this blocks heat from escaping 

  • Do not place objects underneath the laptop as this blocks heat from escaping 

  • Don’t leave your laptop in direct sunlight as this will cause it to overheat 

  • N.B. The hotter your laptop gets, the slower it will operate 

  • Do not leave your laptop on the floor for all the above reasons plus avoid kicking it 

  • Never move or transport your laptop with the charger plugged in as this can snap 

Important Battery & Charging Advice 

  • Do not charge your mobile phone from your laptop. 

  • Never ever let your battery run completely flat as it may not turn on again 

  • Aim to keep battery levels between 20% and 80%. 

  • N.B. Leaving your laptops always on charge will degrade the battery 

  • Always connect to power during Windows updates, otherwise they could corrupt 

  • Turn off your laptop completely when transporting or not being used over the weekend. 

 

Restarting & Troubleshooting 

Restart your laptop at least once per week. This will clear any bugs and maintain the performance of your laptop.  Restart the laptop first if you experience any issues. Holding the power button down for 3 seconds will force shutdown if required.   

Shutting Down Correctly 

Do not close the lid until the laptop is fully shut down. What to look for - Wait until all lights are off around the side of the laptop before closing the lid.  The screen turning off does NOT mean the laptop is off, so wait for all the lights first before closing the lid.  Otherwise, Windows operating system could corrupt and problems will arise. 

Windows Updates 

Always connect to power when updates are running. Do not close the lid during updates. Allow updates to complete fully to prevent system damage.  Never turn off your computer during updates or transport it.  Otherwise, Windows operating system could corrupt and problems will arise. 

Handling & Physical Care 

Be careful when connecting or removing the laptop charger. Do not bend or pull or push your charger at an angle as there are 24 tiny pins that connect so are easily damaged.  Also avoid strains on charging cables. Keep the device in a stable location to prevent any damage or knocking or stretching the cable. 

Security & Usage Restrictions 

Do not sign into the laptop using a personal Microsoft account. This is a work device containing confidential information. Only authorised users may access the laptop. Other users must use a separate guest account if they must use your laptop for any reason. 

Summary 

  • Keep battery between 20%–80% 

  • Unplug charger before moving the laptop 

  • Do not close lid until fully shut down 

  • Ensure proper ventilation 

  • Restart weekly 

  • Do not charge your phone from the laptop 

  • Do not interrupt Windows updates 

  • Do not use personal Microsoft accounts 

  • Do not allow unauthorised users to use the laptop 

 

Detail Behind the Instructions 

Battery Care 

Modern laptop batteries are sensitive to being fully discharged. Letting the battery run flat regularly can cause permanent damage and may even prevent the laptop from starting. To extend battery life and maintain reliability, keep the charge between 20% and 80% where possible. 

Charging Safety 

The charging port is connected directly to the motherboard and can be easily damaged if the laptop is moved while plugged in. This can cause internal damage, often requiring a new motherboard which is an expensive repair.  Accidental damage is not covered by warranty.  Therefore, always unplug the charger before moving or transporting your laptop. 

Proper Shutdown Behaviour 

Closing the lid puts the laptop into sleep mode, not shutdown. This continues to use battery power and may drain over time. Always shut down properly and wait until the laptop is fully off before closing the lid. 

Ventilation 

Laptops rely on airflow to stay cool. Using them on soft surfaces like beds or couches will block vents and cause overheating, leading to slow performance and possible damage. Always use your laptop on a hard, flat surface and ensure its vents are not blocked. 

Phone Charging Warning 

Laptop USB ports are not designed to safely charge phones. Doing so can strain or damage internal components and reduce battery life on both devices. Use a proper wall charger instead.  This is because modern phones require a high current which laptop cannot supply. 

Docking Station Usage 

Not all ports on a docking station provide adequate power for charging. Using the wrong port or a lower powered docking station may result in poor performance or strain on the device. Only use designated charging ports, an approved dock or a dedicated charger. 

Conclusion 

Following this advice will help prevent avoidable issues, reduce downtime, and keep your laptop operating efficiently plus last longer! If you would like anything clarifying, please get in touch:

Contact Information 

Computer Clinic 

Ferrymead 

Christchurch 8023 

Phone: 03 390 9192 

Email: hello@computerclinic.nz Website: www.computerclinic.nz