Some Last-Minute Laptop Reminders

Just as we did prior to Spring Break, we'd like to pass along some last-minute reminders and other helpful hints to our laptop users.

(Re)Stating the Obvious

Okay, we know these are all pretty much common sense. Still, we feel they bear repeating.

Never store your laptop at temperatures above 95 F or below 41 F.
Don't keep your laptop in your car. In warmer months, it doesn't take long for the internal temperature of your car to hit levels that can damage your machine.
Don't forget to keep your laptop secure at all times, whether you're on- or off-campus.

Make sure your laptop is in good working condition.
Run a Windows Update by clicking on the Start button and scrolling up to select the Windows Update menu option. When the MS Windows Update appears, click on Product Updates; a list of components should appear, and you can decide which components you wish to download. Be sure to download any Critical Updates recommended for your system.
Scan your disk for viruses, and make sure your Norton anti-virus software is up-to-date.
Run the System File Checker and Registry Checker. To do this, click on the Start button, select the Programs option, scroll up to Accessories, click on System Tools, and select the System Information option. Next, click on Tools on the System Information menu bar, and select System Pile Checker and/or Registry Checker.

If you find that your laptop requires service over the summer while you're off-campus, you have several options:

You can call IBM for assistance. For domestic calls, call 1-800-497-7426; from outside the US, call (248) 740-1215.
And if you plan to be traveling with your laptop outside of the United States, you should also use these numbers to contact IBM's domestic International Warranty Service, to obtain a registered warranty certificate.
Keep in mind that, upon registration, IBM will issue you a certificate that is recognized worldwide by IBM sellers. This certificate will authorize warranty service by IBM resellers in whatever country you, the customer, are located at the time.
You can return your machine to:
```
	Rensselaer Computer Repair
	Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
	VCC 115
	110 Eighth Street
	Troy, NY  12180-3590
```
RCR will repair your machine under warranty, but you will be responsible for paying all shipping, customs fees, insurance, and other handling charges. NOTE: If you do return your machine, you should insure it at its suggested retail replacement cost; please refer to the URL http://www.rpi.edu/dept/computer_store to access the Campus Computer Store's price information.
If you're off-campus but within the United States, you may choose to take your machine to a local IBM reseller for service.

We hope you'll find thse reminders and tips useful. Have a great summer!

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