Take Care of the ThinkPad

• Carry the ThinkPad in a padded case. Even small bumps can cause damage.
• Treat the screen with care. It's worth 50% of the value of the ThinkPad.
  • Clean the screen with a soft, damp (water only) cloth.
  • Do not force the display to lay flat.
  • Do not bend or twist the display.
    
  • Do not place heavy objects on the ThinkPad.
    
• Keep the ThinkPad in a cool, dry place. Do not expose to temperatures below 40°F or above 85°F for prolonged periods.
• Be careful not to spill anything on the ThinkPad. If you do get the ThinkPad wet, DO NOT turn it on. Take it immediately to the Help Desk for assistance.
• Leave the machine intact. Do not try to open the ThinkPad or take it apart. Do not mark the ThinkPad in any permanent way.

Take Care of Your Data/Files

• Always store your data/files in the Userdata folder. This is the folder that the Help Desk will try to recover if you encounter problems with the ThinkPad.
• Turn off the ThinkPad before moving it. Moving the ThinkPad while it is on can damage the hard drive and may result in loss of data/files.
• Do not load any additional software. If any problem software is installed, the Help Desk will reload the ThinkPad with the initial standard software, erasing all other data/files and programs.
• Backup your data/files on a regular basis. (See Copyright, You, and the Law/Backing up Data page)
• Do not loan the ThinkPad. Insurance covers the ThinkPad only when it is in your possession.
• To shut down the ThinkPad, first select Shut Down from the Start menu, select Shut Down and click OK.

Travel with the ThinkPad

• BE CAREFUL! Laptops are easily identified and frequently stolen in airports and train stations. Never leave the ThinkPad unattended.
  
• NEVER check the ThinkPad as luggage; always carry it on the airplane with you.
• ALWAYS send the ThinkPad through the x-ray machine.
• DO NOT put the ThinkPad in the overhead compartment. Store the ThinkPad under the seat when not in use.
• If traveling in a small airplane with lower cabin pressure, do not use the ThinkPad in-flight.
• Label the ThinkPad with a non-permanent address label.

Secure the ThinkPad

Most thefts occur when property is unattended and unsecured.

• Secure the ThinkPad with a lock down kit (available at most computer supply stores and the College Bookstore) at all times.
• Attach the cable to an object that would be difficult to remove.
• If the ThinkPad is stolen from a campus location, report it to University Police (758-5911) immediately. If it is stolen from an off campus location, contact local law enforcement. You must provide a copy of the police report to the Help Desk in Room 256 in the Information Systems Building.
• Neither Wake Forest University nor Information Systems assumes responsibility for negligence resulting in theft, loss, or damage to the ThinkPad.