Windows® 7 Visual™ Quick Tips

11.5. Set a Maximum Processor Speed

If you need to strictly control your notebook PC's battery power consumption, you can set a maximum processor speed to conserve power.

If you are using your notebook PC on battery power and you are working on a crucial task, your goal should be to use as little power as possible. One way you can achieve that goal is to reduce the use of the notebook's processor (also known as the central processing unit, or CPU). In particular, Windows 7 enables you to set a maximum processor speed as a percentage — where 0 percent means the processor is not in use, and 100 percent means the processor is running at full speed. By setting a maximum state of, say, 50 percent, your notebook may run slower on occasion, but you ...