I ran the Intel Chipset Identification Utility [a utility that identifies an Intel processor and, in some cases, determines whether the CPU is operating at the frequency intended by Intel] on my three-year-old Dell Inspiron 5000e notebook. The program identified my laptop as having a 600-MHz chip, even though I paid for a 750-MHz processor. When I talked to a Dell rep, he said Dell had overclocked my chip, adding that if I ran five programs simultaneously, the 600-MHz chip would run at 750 MHz. I've had serious heat problems with this laptop. I can't help but think that this overclocking is part of the problem.
Patrick Douce, Big Sur, California
On Your Side responds: Dell spokesperson Jennifer Davis says the company's tech support representative was misinformed. The company doesn't sell overclocked PCs, she says. In fact, Douce was simply sent a system with a 600-MHz processor by mistake. Dell gave him a full refund. Davis says there are a number of possible causes of overheating. Dell's Web site has specific advice on avoiding overheating problems.
When you receive a new PC, always check the components to make sure that they are the ones you ordered. Browse to the link to download the Intel Chipset Identification Utility.
Grace Aquino is senior associate editor for PC World. E-mail her at consumerwatch@pcworld.com. You can find more On Your Side columns here.
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