Processor fluctuations in system properties

[mattatec]

Hi,
i have a question for all new t42 owners.
in system properties (general tab) my processor is correctly identified as a 1.7ghz centrino.
however the figure underneath this fluctuates between 600mhz and 1.7ghz even when using the power adapter.
is this normal?
my t42 is configured for highest performance at all times, because i use intensive apps, so i dont think its power management, as its disabled.
i just assumed that therefore the processor would run at 1.7ghz constantly.
or does this fluctuating figure mean something else entirely?
thanks,
matt.

[MichaelMeier]

..

[none]

It is normal, you can download a great little tool called MobileMeter to moitor the speed (and other things) full time. It's available here: http://www.geocities.co.jp/SiliconValley-Oakland/8259/

If you launch an intensive task while MobileMeter is open, your CPU speed should jump to 1700MHz (like instantly). The reason it usually operates slower, is because you usually don't need the full CPU speed. Surfing Google or working in Word really wouldn't be faster wheter it ran in 600MHz or 1700MHz modes.

When it clocks down, it uses less power, and runs cooler, so your fan isn't straining.

[mattatec]

cheers guys.

[Plinkerton]

Strange. My processor is also 1.7, and labeled accordingly. In my system general tab, when I am running at 1.7, it says 599 mhz, and if I am running on battery mode, it says 209 mhz. Mobile Meter always switches between 1.7 and 600mhz accordingly.

What does the 599 and 209 mean anyway? and why the 209?

Thanks,
Plink