battery, charger and internet

[Tom Powell]

I've recently had problems connecting to the internet with my DELL XPS M1210 laptop with Windows XP. The problem was corrected by DELL technicians. I was told the problem was caused by an old battery and using the AC charger continuosly. The continous use of the charger caused a static buildup on the internet hardware and made it inoperable. I ordered a new battery and am using it and the charger intermittently. I am a bit dissastified with the battery life when using it solely to power the computer and would like to use the charger more frequently.

My questions are:
Was this a correct diagnosis for the internet problem? I assume it was because I've had no further problems.
If the problem was indeed a buildup of a static charge, does that charge dissipate when the charger is not in use or only when the computer is shutdown?

Bottom line:
How do I prevent, minimize, and/or dissipate the static charge?

Thanks for the help.
Aloha
tp

 

[johnb35]

Most likely you only have a 6cell battery which usually doesn't last long. You really only want to use the charger to charge the laptop to 100 percent and then unplug it. Then only plug it back in when the charge gets really low, you really don't want to keep it plugged in all the time, it will drastically reduce the battery life and have more heat buildup.

 

[Tom Powell]

The new battery is a nine cell and I understand the correct usage. Battery only till low and then recharge. I didn't consider that plugged in all the time will reduce the battery life and have more heat buildup.

My questions are:
Was this a correct diagnosis for the internet problem? I assume it was because I've had no further problems.
If the problem was indeed a buildup of a static charge, does that charge dissipate when the charger is not in use or only when the computer is shutdown?

Bottom line:
How do I prevent, minimize, and/or dissipate the static charge?

Thanks for the help.
Aloha
tp