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    Interesting temp behavior on GPU (m15x)

    Discussion in 'Alienware' started by madrush, Apr 10, 2009.

  1. madrush

    madrush Notebook Enthusiast

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    I've heard varying comments on proper temps and what not. So I finally installed SpeedFan to monitor my temps (specs are in my sig). Basically, my GPU has been around 70C during normal use (browsing, listening to music, email, MS Office) and will rise to about 82C during major usage (gaming). Last night, I used battery power for the first time after installing Speedfan. I noticed that my GPU temperature (during normal use) went from an average of 70C while plugged in, to over 15C cooler, average about 55C. Sooo, my question is, what would do this?

    I know the m15x has a stealth mode and the ability to use the onboard video rather than the 9800M GT. Is that what's happening? I thought I had to reboot to switch the video. Any ideas on this? I am using the BIOS X36 which has that bug that shows ACPI at 80C all the time.
     
    madrush, Apr 10, 2009
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  2. CyberVisions

    CyberVisions Martian Notebook Overlord

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    If you open up and look at your system's Power Plan Advanced Settings, you'll see that virtually all components on your system are set to conserve power when switched to Battery mode. The CPU is the most noticeable, as it's usually set to operate at a good percentage lower than it would be if it were running on AC. GPU-wise, the display is generally set to operate at a third or less power output, so the GPU doesn't generate as much heat since it doesn't need to drive the monitor at 100%. So the reason for cooler temps is that notebooks are designed to run at less than maximum output to conserve battery power.

    Of course, if you want to see that temperature increase, all you need to do is to change the power setting back to max. Your battery will probably last about 20min when you do, but if it makes you FEEL BETTER...... :cool:

    To see your Power Plan's Advanced Settings:

    1. Control Panel, Power.
    2. Click on Change Plan Settings.
    3. Click on Change Advanced Power Settings.

    The Advanced Settings window shows you all of the components that can be modified to conserve power or be set for performance rather than power savings. There are 2 settings for each component, one for Battery and the other for AC use.
     
    CyberVisions, Apr 10, 2009
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