power management/meter question

[bignate]

hi, i have a thinkpad T42 that i bought new about a year ago. when running on the battery, the computer will go into forced hibernation when the battery meter gets down to about 30%. when i bring the computer back from hibernation, the battery meter reads 5% (which is where i have it set to force hibernate). so for some reason, the meter is off.. according to my current settings, i should be able to watch the meter tick down to 10% and receive an audible warning, then watch it force hibernate when it reaches 5%.

is this a common problem, any ideas on a solution? my last thinkpad didn't do anything like this...

thanks in advance

[GomJabbar]

I've seen this type of behavior before. I suggest you try turning off hibernation, then click on the battery icon in the notification area and choose Improve Battery Health > Recondition Battery Now... The only thing is, I have a feeling you risk killing a weak battery with this method. Just a feeling, no hard evidence.

Problem: Your computer shuts down before the battery status indicator shows empty, -or- Your computer operates after the battery status indicator shows empty.

Solution: Discharge and recharge the battery pack.

Here is some more information: Getting the most out of your battery - ThinkPad General