Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)?

A: Under ACPI, the operating system directs all computer and device power state transitions. The operating system puts devices in and out of low power states based on customer preferences and knowledge of how devices are being used by programs. Devices not being used may be turned off, or the entire computer may be placed in a low power state.

ACPI gives the operating system direct control over the power management and Plug and Play functions of a computer. ACPI requires an ACPI-aware operating system, such as Windows NT 4.0, Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows Me.

ACPI features include:

  • Plug and Play (including bus and device enumeration) and Advanced Power Management (APM) functionality normally contained in the BIOS Setup Utility.
  • Power management control of individual devices, add-in boards (some add-in boards may require an ACPI-aware driver), video displays and hard disks.
  • Methods for achieving less than 30 watt computer operation in the Power On Suspend sleeping state, and less than five watt computer operation in the Suspend to Disk sleeping state.
  • A soft-off feature that enables the operating system to turn off the computer.
  • Support for multiple wake up events.
  • Support for a front panel power and sleep mode switch.