Laptops are vulnerable to extreme cold and hot temperatures.
Laptop computers allow for environment flexibility, meaning you could just as easily work on your next big presentation sitting in your backyard instead of at your desk. Like most electronics, however, laptops have trouble functioning properly in temperatures that are too hot or too cold; and in some cases, these extremes could cause damage. While it's easy to become too familiar and comfortable with a laptop, keep in mind that it's a delicate piece of complicated circuitry, and careful treatment will help ensure a long, well-functioning life.
Operational Failure
Extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can compromise the operation of the laptop. Internal components can become brittle if left in temperatures below 35 degrees F for extended periods of time, and exposure to temperatures of 90 degrees or higher can result in short circuits on the various electronic boards, and even melt them in some cases. Attempting to run the laptop in either situation could lead to internal damage.
Condensation
The threat of condensation appears in either temperature extreme, as it appears when suddenly moving the laptop from one temperature extreme to the other. Moving your laptop from your cold car to the warmth of your home or office can create tiny droplets of water on your laptop's internal components, as can moving it from a cool, air conditioned room to a warm summer day outside. This condensation could kill your laptop's circuitry should you power on before it evaporates, or cause corrosion of internal components.
External Damage
Laptop monitors are LCD screens, which stand for liquid crystal diode. The "liquid" component in the monitor can freeze at low temperatures, causing the screen to crack. The outer casing of the laptop may become brittle if left in low temperatures for long periods, and a sudden knock may cause it to break. Extreme heat generally won't cause much external physical damage to a laptop, but the casing can become very hot to the touch.
Precautions
Never leave your laptop exposed to either extreme of temperature for extended periods of time, such as left in a car overnight or during a hot summer day. When moving from one temperature to another, allow your laptop time to adjust to the ambient temperature before attempting to power on. If your laptop develops a layer of frost due to colder temperatures, allow the machine to warm up completely before attempting to power on or even open the lid -- the hinges may have "flexed" or warped due to the cold and forcing the lid open can damage it.
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