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    Do I have to backup laptop before using it?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by candyfloss, Aug 23, 2008.

  1. candyfloss

    candyfloss Notebook Enthusiast

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    Sorry, I am not good with computers. I just got a new laptop. I'm wondering if I have to back it up before using it? Or do I only back it up once I have files etc on it? Will a CD-R do? That is all I have on hand...I am using windows Vista Business with a Dell Latitude D630 if that matters.

    Another question, how do I check the battery status so I know whether or not I need to plug it in? Can I plug it in while it is on, or do I have to shut it down, plug it in then use it?

    Thanks so much in advance.
     
    candyfloss, Aug 23, 2008
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  2. Enduct

    Enduct Notebook Consultant

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    Generally people back up files they make, or configurations. The rest of the files are already pre-backed up by your Dell media, since you can reinstall at any time. Back up your data on a regular basis, maybe once a week. If you only have text files to save a CDR should be sufficient, but if you go into movie editing/graphics you might want to look at a DVDR. You can check your battery availability by turning it over and pushing a button on it. This should illuminate an amount of bars to correlate with remaining charge. You can charge while your computer is on, however, the amount of time needed to charge the battery will be longer compared to when the computer is off.
     
    Enduct, Aug 23, 2008
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  3. candyfloss

    candyfloss Notebook Enthusiast

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    Oh, thank you that is very helpful! Is the Dell media a physical disc? I am looking at the discs they sent, and I see the one listed below. Its strange they didn't send an instruction manual/guide...

    Drivers and Utilities (3 discs)
    Application
    Operating System
    Roxio
     
    candyfloss, Aug 23, 2008
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  4. Thomas

    Thomas McLovin

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    You have it, it's the "Operating System" disc.
    You should see a battery icon in the system tray(near the clock).
    Btw, for any help you need, the Manual is on the System Hard drive.
     
    Thomas, Aug 23, 2008
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  5. deathstick

    deathstick Notebook Evangelist

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    If your files are under 2GB, I would suggest buying a USB Flash drive and backing up your files to that instead. You can find many 2GB flash drives under $20, and it would be faster and easier than burning CDs or DVDs. A 2GB flash drive holds almost 3 CD's worth of data, so that is lots of room. Just make sure you keep that flash drive somewhere at home in a safe place, as they are small and easy to lose.
     
    deathstick, Aug 23, 2008
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  6. candyfloss

    candyfloss Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks so much for your answers everyone! That really helped!!!
     
    candyfloss, Aug 24, 2008
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