overnight

what do u suggest?

For one, get a desktop if the machine isn't going to be used as a portable device. That's what laptops are for. Plus, a desktop machine is always going to out-perform a laptop, so why have one if it's going to be locked down on a desk 24/7.

If that isn't an option, remove the battery. But even then, you will need to periodically fully charge and fully discharge the battery for it to remain viable if you should need it.

If you keep your laptop in one place and plugged in all the time, first unplug it to drain the battery til it's around 40% charge, put it in a plastic bag, and keep it in the refrigerator. That is the way to preserve it for the longest possible time

I suppose I'm an exception to that "rule," MacGyvr.

I've had my laptop for over two years and seldom unplug it. It's on 24/7 with the battery installed.

I use it as a desktop yet it is available with all of my programs and files should I ever need to visit a client that cannot come to my office. I still get at least 3 hours out of it when I'm running on battery.

I'm not discounting your experience, I'm just mentioning it is opposite to what I have encountered personally. Laptops are perfectly fine when used as desktops. It eliminates the necessity of tracking programs and files among two computers. I'm not a gamer so I have no need for a huge desktop. I run AutoCad Architecture 2011, CS5, Office 2007 (Access, Outlook, Word, Excel all at once) and a myriad of other demanding applications all on my laptop/desktop. Why should I invest in a desktop?

Another suggestion: if you have a laptop with a docking port, invest in a dock and an external monitor.

Indeed, madtownidiot, great advice.

I use an external monitor in addition to my laptop monitor as well as a USB keyboard and mouse when I'm at my desk (which is pretty much always). I don't have a docking station so I just position the laptop to one side, elevated slightly, next to the external monitor and then just park my external keyboard and mouse in front of the external monitor.

Thanks for the research regarding battery life. If I ever find it necessary to acquire a backup battery I shall certainly use the knowledge you have presented for storage and preservation.

Good reply madtownindiot and mikedl..

MacGyvr said:

For one, get a desktop if the machine isn't going to be used as a portable device. That's what laptops are for. Plus, a desktop machine is always going to out-perform a laptop, so why have one if it's going to be locked down on a desk 24/7.

If that isn't an option, remove the battery. But even then, you will need to periodically fully charge and fully discharge the battery for it to remain viable if you should need it.

It wont be 24/7 plugged in..the battery is used frequently.