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.
  • Do not drop 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 any 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. If the the ThinkPad is on, turn it off. Take it immediately to the Help Desk for assistance.
• Leave the machine intact. Do not try to service 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 & Plagiarism/Backing up Data tab)
• 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.
• DO NOT put the ThinkPad in the overhead compartment. Store the ThinkPad under the seat when not in use.
• DO NOT use the ThinkPad in flight when traveling in a small airplane with lower cabin pressure.
• DO 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.
• ThinkPad thefts are not uncommon. Protect your data/files by securing the laptop.