I have an HP ProBook 640 G3 running Ubuntu, and I'm wondering if it's safe to leave it plugged in and running as a server 24/7 with both the battery and power cord connected. I'm using the official power cord that came with it. Would it be better to remove the battery instead? I hesitate to do that because the laptop sometimes shuts down and won't turn back on without the battery. What's the best approach here?
5 Answers
Definitely keep the battery! But it’s a smart move to get a backup battery too, since the original will likely reach the end of its life eventually. You don’t want to be caught without a backup when you need your server running!
You shouldn’t have any issues running it that way. The battery has its own controller, so it won't overcharge. Think of it as a backup power source! Just remember to clean the vents occasionally to prevent overheating and make sure it's got some space around it for airflow.
If your laptop allows it, you might want to set a max charge limit in the BIOS, like capping it at 80-85%. It’s a good way to extend battery life while still keeping it plugged in. A lot of devices have this feature these days.
I've heard people say that heat can damage the screen; I have a gaming laptop and it gets really hot. I usually keep mine open but with the screen off. Not sure if that’s true, but it might help with preventing any potential heat issues.
While some recommend keeping the battery in, it might also be safer to remove it if you can set the BIOS to run solely on AC power. Just make sure you have a good power source since you'll be using it 24/7.
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