How to turn off one core of a duo core dell laptop?

Question

I recently got an inspiron 1521, and as with all laptops, power can be a problem.

Is there a way to turn off a core and run as a single core system to conserve power on the go? I don't see the need to use both cores for surfing the web etc.

I would prefer a way to do it using my OS (vista home premium), or is there only a way to do it via BIOS?

Thanks,
-Simba

Answer 1

Windows actually manage the usage of those 2 cores. No need to mess with them. Try reducing your screen's brightness but high contrast. You may be able to conserve battery power that way.

Answer 2

I wouldnt advise you to use vista because it might actually drain more power and it is slow and i also wouldnt reccomend you turn a core of and run on a single core because i think it has to work less when they work together and it might take less energy im not really sure if you can run on one core but anywayz goodluck and take my advice on vista

Answer 3

You don't need to,

Dual-core systems do their own power and resource management, and will prioritise power conservation if you're not working them hard.

Answer 4

Negative, My CPU cannot comply with that question. Nope you can't just switch from dual to single.