Why Isn't My Computer's Sleep Mode Working Properly?

In summary, the conversation discusses the computer's low power or sleep mode and how to enable it for nighttime. The white lamp on top of the tower is believed to indicate that the computer is running, but it is not clear if it is in a low power mode. The speaker is trying to determine the meaning of the lights on their computer and monitor and asks for suggestions on how to enter sleep mode. They also mention different options that appear when clicking the start button. The conversation ends with a question about how long it has been since the computer was booted.
  • #1
Naty1
5,606
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Ok, so a few mos ago some you computer whizzes said low power or sleep was ok way to
leave my computer at night ...

Those buttons worked as prescribed, got a yellow lamp atop my
tower... Then after a few mos the white color lamp atop the tower remained on...still does, does not change to yellow...so I am guessing my hard drive is running all night?? What do you suggest so I can go to 'low power' or ''sleep' mode for nightime??

Setup: HP computer, Windows Vista, Internet Explorer, Yahoo e-mail...

makes no difference if I close all tabs or leave them open...

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
I don't believe that the white lamp means that the hard drive is running. It won't be running unless data is being written to or read from the hard drive. I'm guessing that the white lamp just means that the computer itself is running. There should be some documentation someplace that indicates what the lights mean.

What tabs are you talking about - the ones for IE or the ones across the bottom of the taskbar? Are you going into sleep mode by Start --> Turn off computer --> Sleep?
 
  • #3
"I'm guessing that the white lamp just means that the computer itself is running."

Can that be a low power mode?? My tabs comment referred to multiple screen choices in Internet Explorer. It has nothing to do with the low power mode I end up in...as expected.
Are you going into sleep mode by Start --> Turn off computer --> Sleep?

exactly.

There are three 'buttons' [icons is a better word I guess] that appear after hitting start...

one has no label, but sometimes shows 'low power" mode,,,,[and is the same icon as appears on my monitor [different brand] which has two colors...white and yellow. It's a circle with an opening at the top in which a short vertical segment appears. and an overlay icon on the first icon appears if installation of an update is required,

another choice is a right pointing arrow head from which to choose 'switch user', 'lock', 'restart', 'sleep', or 'shut down'.

The third icon from which to choose is simply a padlock...no printed label appears. So for example, "sleep" previously showed a yellow lamp color on top of the tower, but no longer does, instead the white power color remains all night.

I don't have a book but I guess I could try online to find a light/lamp description.

My monitor also has a white 'power on' lamp indicator...
 
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  • #4
I don't have any computers running Vista. I have one running XP at home, and several at work running Win 7 and Windows Server 2008, so what I see is a little different from what you describe.

How long has it been since you booted the computer? If it has been a long time, that might be why what you saw a few months ago isn't happening now. It seems odd to me that you see the Low power option only periodically.

BTW the padlock icon is to lock your computer.
 
  • #5


I would suggest troubleshooting the issue by checking the power settings on your computer. It is possible that there may be a setting that is preventing the computer from entering low power or sleep mode. Additionally, I would recommend checking for any updates or patches for your operating system and browser, as these can sometimes affect power settings. It may also be helpful to run a diagnostic test on your hard drive to ensure it is functioning properly. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to seek technical support from the manufacturer or a computer specialist.
 

1. What is the connection between sleep and low power?

Sleep is essential for allowing our bodies and brains to rest and recharge. During sleep, our bodies go into a low power state where energy consumption is reduced. This is necessary for our overall health and functioning.

2. How does lack of sleep affect low power functioning?

Not getting enough sleep can negatively impact our low power functioning. When we are sleep deprived, our bodies and brains do not have the opportunity to recharge, leading to fatigue and decreased energy levels.

3. Is there a scientific explanation for why low power is not working during sleep?

Yes, there is a scientific explanation for why low power may not work during sleep. During sleep, our bodies and brains are in a state of rest and repair, which requires a different level of energy consumption. This can cause low power to not function properly during this time.

4. Can certain sleep habits improve low power functioning?

Yes, adopting healthy sleep habits can improve low power functioning. This includes getting enough sleep, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and avoiding caffeine and electronics before bed.

5. Are there any long-term effects of consistently not getting enough sleep on low power functioning?

Consistently not getting enough sleep can have long-term effects on low power functioning. This can lead to chronic fatigue, decreased energy levels, and potential health issues. It is important to prioritize getting enough sleep for optimal low power functioning and overall well-being.

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