System Information Guide 19
AC ADAPTER THROUGHPUT —Performance is reduced when the computer is running on AC
power and power consumption exceeds the established parameters of the AC Adapter. This
performance reduction ensures that the system does not try to consume more power than the AC
adapter can provide.
BATTERY CAPACITY —Performance is reduced when the computer is running on battery power
and power consumption exceeds the established parameters of the battery’s rated capacity or exceeds
allowable safe discharge levels, or when the battery surface temperature exceeds 60°C.
Optimizing Power Consumption and Battery Charge Time
The AC adapter charges a completely discharged battery in approximately 3 hours with the
computer turned off. Charge time is significantly longer if the computer is on and running
at high processor speeds and system activity levels. If you run your computer at high system
activity levels for extended periods of time and your battery is not charging, try running
your system in Low Power Mode. Low Power Mode can improve battery charge time and
battery life. Depending on system activity levels, system performance may be reduced.
To set Low Power Mode:
1Click the Start button, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and
then click Power Options.
NOTE: You can also click the power meter icon on the taskbar.
2Click the Power Schemes tab.
3In the Power schemes drop-down menu, click Low Power Mode.
For more information on power management, see the Tell Me How help file. To access the
help file, click the Start button, click Help and Support, click User and system guides, click
User’s Guides, and then click Tell Me How.
Variable Speed Fan
The computer uses a variable speed fan to prevent the computer from overheating. The fan
runs constantly, and fan speed may vary depending on usage. Fan noise is normal and does
not indicate a problem with the fan or the computer.