HP dx7208 Runtime Power Management v1.0 - Page 2
Introduction - driver
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Introduction Computer processor manufacturers are incorporating the ability to manage power use directly into their newer processors. Processors recently released by both Intel and AMD include features that work with the BIOS and operating system to lower power consumption. Along with being more environmentally friendly, reduced power consumption results in reduced heat production. Less heat means lower fan speed requirements, thereby providing quieter, more efficient computers. What is EIST? Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology (EIST) is the term Intel uses for its processor power management technology. This processor feature allows the system to dynamically adjust processor voltage and core frequency as often as is required to decrease power consumption and decrease heat production. The processor alters performance by changing bus-to-core frequency ratio and voltage. Only the internal core frequency is altered - the front side bus (FSB) is not affected. To run at reduced power consumption, the voltage is changed in step with the bus ratio. What is Cool'n'Quiet Cool'n'Quiet is the term AMD uses for its processor power management technology. This processor feature dynamically adjusts the operating frequency and voltage of a processor up to 30 times per second depending on the CPU load. When full processor performance is not needed, the processor slows its frequency, resulting in significant power savings, which results in cooler and quieter performance. While Cool'n'Quiet technology is new to desktop processors, a similar technology from AMD has been used in mobile processors for several years. This mobile processor technology is known as PowerNow! Why are EIST and Cool'n'Quiet needed? EIST and Cool'n'Quiet were created to lower power consumption when software activity does not require the full capabilities of the processor. Reduced power consumption means reduced operating costs and reduced heat production. Reduced heat production means reduced fan speed requirements. Reduced fan speed requirements also mean reduced system noise. This technology is also especially useful for portable computers, as reduced power consumption leads to increased battery life. What are the required components for EIST and Cool'n'Quiet to function? For a system to take advantage of EIST or Cool'n'Quiet, the following system components must support the feature: • Processor • Chipset • System BIOS • Operating system • Processor driver 2