Need help keeping laptop from going to standby

Hi,

When I attach an external monitor and toggle the Fn-F8 button twice, the external monitor lights up and the laptop monitor shuts off, which is great. But when I shut the laptop as I do not want it open all day, the system goes into standby. How do I alter it so that when I do this, the computer stays on?

When I disconnect the external Monitor, I would like the system to go into standby when I shut it. Can I have it both ways?

Scott
Dell Vostro 1510
XP Pro

 

You meant shutting off (closing) the lid? Checked the power scheme when lid closes?

cheers ...

 

Just warning you that heat does escape through the keyboard. Closing the lid will prevent/limit this. Also, heat buildup between the keyboard and laptop screen can damage the screen. You might end up getting dull spots on your screen.

 

I have been running in hibernation mode with my lid totally close for long time without yet any issues. But it is possible that it might cause some screen discolouration on some comps models. Best bet is let a crack open when lid closes and with comp on.

cheers ...

 

Generally speaking, when our computers are turned off (i.e. hibernation mode) they don't generate much heat. That would be the likely explanation for why you haven't had any issues.

 

so how do I change the settings so that the computer will still run with the top closed? This is for when I have an external monitor hooked up. I have no problem leaving the top open a couple of inches for heat dispersion but it is still going into hibernation mode.

 

Under power options you should be able to change the behaviour of the system when the lid is closed (more specifically, when the hidden switch on the lid is triggered by moving the lid in the direction of being closed).

 

Hibernation mode completely turns off the power to the laptop. So there is NO heat being dissipated whatsoever.

Gary

 

Got it. It was under the advanced tab on the power options. thanks a lot!! :smile: :smile:

 

It is an option in the power settings on your machine. Go into control panel and you should be able to find them.

One word of caution, you seem to be using the terms "standby" and "hibernation" interchangeably. They are NOT the same thing. Standby puts the machine into a low power state with only memory receiving power. Hibernation copies the entire contents of RAM to a file on the hard drive and totally powers off the machine. "Hybrid Standby" combines both of these with power being turned off after a fixed (configurable) delay time.

Gary

 

I would use everest to monitor your temps while trying this. I tried running mine lid closed at one point, internal temps increased dramatically.

 

Thanks