Q: How do I change power settings on my notebook using Windows Vista?

A: Power plans (groups of power settings) let you change power saving options such as when the display or hard drive is automatically turned off. You can select one of the defined power plans or create a custom power plan.

Three power plans are pre-defined in Windows Vista:

• Balanced - This is the default power plan which balances performance and battery life.
• Power saver - This power plan sacrifices performance in order to extend battery life. Use this plan if you are away from AC power outlets for an extended period of time. Your programs may run slower than you are accustomed to under the other two power plans.
• High performance - This power plan sacrifices battery life in order to gain performance. Use this plan if you need additional computing power for your program.

  Note: Your battery may not last as long as you are accustomed to under the other two power plans.

To select or change the power plan for your notebook:

1. From the Windows Vista™ default Start menu, click Control Panel.

2. In the Control Panel window, click Mobile PC.

3. In the Mobile PC window, click Power Options.

4. In the Power Options window, click to select the power plan you want to use.

To customize the power plan:

1. From the Windows Vista™ default Start menu, click Control Panel.

2. In the Control Panel window, click Mobile PC.

3. In the Mobile PC window, click Power Options.

4. In the Power Options window, under the power plan selected, click Change plan settings.

5. In the Edit Plan Settings window, modify the display or sleep options by selecting from the drop down list, or move the slider to adjust the display brightness.

6. Click Save changes.

To change advanced power settings:

1. From the Windows Vista™ default Start menu, click Control Panel.

2. In the Control Panel window, click Mobile PC.

3. In the Mobile PC window, click Power Options.

4. In the Power Options window, under the power plan selected, click Change plan settings.

5. In the Edit Plan Settings window, click Change advanced power settings.

6. On the Advanced Settings tab, click + to expand the category that you want to customize, expand each setting that you want to change, and then select the values that you want your computer to use when running on battery and when it is plugged in.

7. Click OK, and then click Save Changes.