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.

BATTER Y 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.

System Information Guide

19

Page 21
Image 21
Dell 1100 manual Optimizing Power Consumption and Battery Charge Time, Variable Speed Fan