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SpeedStep
IT Friendly
IT managers will be glad to know that Intel SpeedStep technology functionality is completely seamless. If
we look under the hood, we find that Intel SpeedStep technology uses Intel® QuickStart technology to put the
processor into “sleep” mode. The voltage level and processor frequency are then adjusted and the system
awakened. The process is completely transparent to running applications and takes just one-half of a milli-
second to complete—less time than the blink of an eye.
What’s more, IT managers won’t have to worry about implementing Intel SpeedStep technology in the
enterprise. The technology works with all major operating systems, including Microsoft’s Windows 95,
Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0, and Windows 2000.
Summary
When the notebook is plugged in, mobile Pentium III processors run at peak clock frequency—600MHz and
650MHz for current models. When the system runs on battery power, clock rates drop to 500MHz.
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Operating voltages also switch, dropping to 1.35 volts when unplugged from 1.6 volts when run-
ning off an AC power source.
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The mode switch can be invoked automatically when systems are plugged into or unplugged from
an outlet, or by user command using a simple utility.
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Mode switches occur in less than one-half a millisecond and are completely transparent to both the
end user and running applications.
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Intel mobile Pentium III processors featuring Intel SpeedStep technology allow OEMs to build
mobile PCs that closely match the performance and capabilities of advanced desktop systems.