Power
Software Guide
2–13
Using SpeedStep
(Windows 2000 Professional Only)
In Windows 2000 Professional, the Intel Pentium 4 Processor
with SpeedStep technology enables you to set the processor speed
for optimal performance or optimal power conservation. The
SpeedStep technology can also enable an automatic change in
CPU (central processing unit) speed when the power source
changes between AC power and battery power or when notebook
use changes between active and idle.
These changes in CPU speed function independently from the
power management settings available through the operating
system. For information about using Windows power
management features, see “Setting Power Management
Preferences” earlier in this chapter.
✎
In Windows XP Home and Windows XP Professional, the
functions of SpeedStep technology are managed through the
operating system.
Choosing a Performance Mode
The SpeedStep technology offers 4 preset performance modes:
■
In Maximum Performance mode, the processor runs at full
speed to provide maximum performance.
■
In Automatic mode, the processor speed increases while the
notebook is being used and decreases when the notebook is
not being used.
■
In Battery Optimized mode, the processor runs at a reduced
speed to provide an optimal balance between energy
conservation and performance.
■
In Maximum Battery mode, the processor runs at a greatly
reduced speed to provide maximum energy conservation.
The notebook can run in any of the performance modes while it is
operating on AC power or on battery power.
