Attach a name tag or business card to the computer.
Write down your Service Tag and store it in a safe place away from the computer or carrying case. Use the Service Tag if you need to report a loss or theft to law enforcement officials and to Dell.
Create a file on the Microsoft® Windows® desktop called if_found. Place information such as your name, address, and phone number in this file.
Contact your credit card company and ask if it offers coded identification tags.
Packing the Computer
Remove any external devices attached to the computer and store them in a safe place. Remove any cables attached to installed PC Cards, and remove any extended PC Cards (see Removing a Card or Blank).
To make the computer as light as possible, replace any devices installed in the module bay with the Dell TravelLite™ module.
Fully charge the main battery and any spare batteries that you plan to carry with you.
Shut down the computer.
Disconnect the AC adapter.
NOTICE: When the display is closed, extraneous items on the keyboard or palm rest could damage the display.
Remove any extraneous items, such as paper clips, pens, and paper, from the keyboard and palm rest and close the display.
Use the optional Dell™ carrying case to pack the computer and its accessories together safely.
Avoid packing the computer with items such as shaving cream, colognes, perfumes, or food.
NOTICE: If the computer has been exposed to extreme temperatures, allow it to acclimate to room temperature for 1 hour before turning it on.
Protect the computer, the batteries, and the hard drive from hazards such as extreme temperatures and overexposure to sunlight, dirt, dust, or liquids.
Pack the computer so that it does not slide around in the trunk of your car or in an overhead storage compartment.
Travel Tips
NOTICE: Do not move the computer while using the optical drive to prevent loss of data.
If you are traveling internationally, carry proof of ownership—or of your right to use the computer if it is company-owned—to speed your passage through customs. Investigate the customs regulations of the countries you plan to visit, and consider acquiring an international carnet (also known as a merchandise passport) from your government.
Find out what type of electrical outlets are used in the countries you will visit, and have appropriate power adapters.
Check with your credit card company for information about the kinds of emergency travel assistance it offers to users of portable computers.
Traveling by Air
NOTICE: Do not walk the computer through a metal detector. Send the computer through an X-ray machine or have it hand-inspected.
Ensure that you have a charged battery available in case you are asked to turn on the computer.
Prior to entering the airplane, verify that using a computer is permitted. Some airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during flight. All airlines forbid the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
