AC adapters must be handled with care to prevent damage to them, and to the computer -- while they are in use, being transported or in storage. Here are some tips and cautions to help you keep your equipment in good working condition.

• Never use an AC adapter or power cord if it shows any signs of damage.  
  
  
• When you disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, grasp it by the connector, not the cord.

• Don't wrap the cord around the adapter, as shown in the picture above. This forces the cord to bend sharply where it enters the body of the AC adapter. This may break the strain relief, and cause damage to the cord's shielding, insulation, and internal conductors -- as indicated by the arrows in the pictures immediately above and below.

• Wrap the cord as shown in the picture above when transporting or storing the AC adapter.
  
  

• CAUTION: Never pick up the computer and walk away with it, with the AC adapter still connected. Doing so can damage the AC adapter plug, or break the computer's main circuit board, requiring its replacement -- a very costly repair, potentially. If you find it difficult to remember to unplug the AC adapter before moving the computer, try setting the AC adapter on your work surface, next to the computer, to remind you that it's attached.
  

  
  
  
  

• CAUTION: Never allow the AC adapter to hang suspended off a table or desk, as in the picture above. Doing so causes the weight of the AC adapter to pull downward on the computer's DC-in jack. This jack is mounted to the computer's main circuit board, which can break from the strain, requiring its replacement. The AC adapter's connector may also be damaged.
  
  
  

  

• CAUTION: Avoid putting any pressure or strain on the AC adapter plug or the DC-in jack, as in the picture above. As in the previous example, this force can damage the AC adapter plug, or the computer's main circuit board, or both.
  

^-mc/wa