Windows XP Pro & Notebook power modes? Always on vs Portable?

Hi,

I have a M1210 that has Vista. I am going to install XP on it for the time being (I like it better). I also have two Inspiron 8600 notebooks as well (both with XP Pro).

I noticed that the only way to get the processor going full blast on a regular basis is to go into power options then choose "Always On".

I like that & since most of the time the notebook is plugged into the wall, its not an issue, i rarely travel with it.

Granted for web browsing, I probably dont need full power, but I like it to be 100% all the time anyway.

When I close the lid on XP (with my 8600) the unit doesnt go into sleep or standby mode.

Is this common of XP in general? How can I force it to sleep when the lid is shut, and to wake when it is opened (similar to Vista)?

What settings are needed to accomplish this?

I should note that my XP Pro installations were 100% clean installs, no dell junk readded (which maybe is my problem).

Thanks,
Rich

 

In the "Advanced" tab of Control Panel -> Power Options, you can choose what to do when you close the lid. Choices are Hibernate, Standby, or Do Nothing. Also, you typically can turn off the "SpeedStep" stuff in the BIOS configuration program.

 

It says if you turn off speedstep it goes to the slowest setting.