Consider this: wouldn't it be nice if your computer started in just a few seconds? Better yet, what if it started with your favorite applications running, your MP3's playing, and everything you need to get back to what you were last working on?

The Suspend-to-RAM feature of Windows saves almost as much power as turning your machine off, but it is also less taxing on your patience.

Go to the Start menu and click Shut Down. Choose the Stand By or Suspend option (depending on your version of Windows, it may be in a drop-down list).

If your fans kept whirling, you may need to configure your BIOS to enable this feature. Reboot and enter your PC's setup utility. (Watch the screen as the PC boots; it should tell you which key to press.)

Every computer is different. Look for a power-savings or power-management category. Search for settings related to suspend modes. Enable any setting labeled 'Suspend Mode' or 'ACPI Function'. Select Suspend to RAM by choosing S3 or STR. Save your changes, exit the setup utility, and boot into Windows.

11 February 2003  |   permalink