Another contribution from the Batteries blog Archives [March 2007]... you'll find links to top-class suppliers in both the USA and the UK in the right-hand margin of the actual blog... and you'll find a link to the blog in the External Links below...
"Batteries... for Laptops or Notebooks... how to make them last longer
When you first buy your laptop or notebook the battery life will be quite reasonable... as it gets older, so the battery deteriorates.
A couple of general tips to prolong its life are... firstly to keep it in a cool place, like the fridge, when it is not in use. Secondly don't run it down till it is flat, keep it up to at least 40% by charging it regularly. Know which parts of your computer use the most power... they are...
1.) The hard drive
2.) CD-DVD drive
3.) Floppy disk [if you have one]
4.) Your Modem
5.) Your display
6.) and the Network Interface.
With your display, you can reduce the amount of power used, by setting a lower resolution and fewer colors on the display.
For all the other settings, it is best to go into the Power Options Properties box and sort out which settings you can live with. If you don't understand this option, you can either find a youngster who does, or contact your computer store or repairer... just someone who knows!
I'm sure you have heard the horror stories of batteries spontaneously combusting... so be totally CERTAIN that you obtain either manufacturers batteries, or those which are manufacturer approved.
It IS a good idea to have a spare battery if you do a lot of important work on the move and if your battery is inclined to let you down... just remember to store the spare in the fridge preferably in a plastic box to keep it dry and safe. Always remember safety in regard to metal and batteries."
