might buy a T61 - some questions

I'm thinking of getting a T61, and had some (maybe dumb) questions I was hoping someone could help me with. My laptop is pretty old, so I don't have much experience with the new ones.

1. The much talked about ruggedness of the T61 is a big selling point for me. Do you think it would be okay to carry it in a regular backpack with textbooks, etc?

2. Can a spare battery be charged without connecting it to the computer? (i.e. just plug the power cord into the battery).

3. If you use an ultrabay battery, can you swap the main battery without turning the computer off?

4. Is swapping a dead battery for a spare a fast and easy procedure?

thanks for any help with this.

 

I have a T60, so bear that in mind when reading my comments.
1.) I carry it around with my books;however, I do keep it wrapped up in a sleeve I made out of a T-shirt. You'd obviously want to keep it dry, avoid drops and such, and probably put it in a real sleeve or something before tossing it in your bookbag. I would be concerned for the finish and also about things working their way into your keyboard/vents. But yes, you should be fine as long as you cover the computer somehow.
2.) Not on the T60, and I'm 99% sure you can't do this on the T61.
3.)As far as I know. This link has more information.
4.)Yeah-just hibernate the computer first. (or run an ultrabay battery)