Using the MacBook Pro Battery
When the MagSafe power adapter isn’t connected, your MacBook Pro draws power
from its built-in battery. The length of time that you can run your MacBook Pro varies,
depending on the applications you use and the external devices connected to your
MacBook Pro.
Turning off features such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® wireless technology and reducing
screen brightness can help conserve battery charge, for example, when you’re traveling
by air. Many of your system preferences are automatically set to optimize battery life.
You can determine the charge remaining in the battery by looking at the eight battery
level indicator lights on the left side of your MacBook Pro. Press the button next to the
lights, and the lights glow briefly to show how much charge remains in the battery.
Important:
If only one indicator light is on, very little charge is left. If no lights are on,
the battery is completely drained and the MacBook Pro won’t start up unless the power
adapter is connected. Plug in the power adapter to let the battery recharge. For more
information about battery indicator lights, see page 56.
You can also check the amount of battery charge remaining by viewing the Battery
(
) status icon in the menu bar. The battery charge level displayed is based on the
amount of power left in the battery with the applications, peripheral devices, and
system settings you’re currently using. To conserve battery power, close applications
and disconnect peripheral devices not in use, and adjust your Energy Saver settings.
For more information about battery conservation and performance tips, go to
www.apple.com/batteries/notebooks.html.
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Chapter 2
Life with Your MacBook Pro
Charging the Battery
When the power adapter that came with your MacBook Pro is connected, the battery
charges whether the computer is on, off, or in sleep. The battery charges more quickly,
however, if the computer is off or in sleep.
The battery in your MacBook Pro can be replaced only by an Apple Authorized Service
Provider or an Apple Retail Store.