As a new user of Windows 7 and an overclocked processor, I would like some advice on whether to set my power option to Balanced or Performance. I understand that the balanced option will still allow the processor to ramp up when needed. I am concerned that using the performance option may shorten the life of the processor chip. Any thoughts? What do you do? Thanks!Airbus

I would set it to balanced, if you use your computer for other stuff as well. If it is dedicated to FS, there is no problem setting it to performance. If you have a Desktop PC and not a Laptop, set it to Performance because you dont have any "Battery Life". It will not shorten the processor chip's life if you have a decent cooling system. What might also help to ease the CPU's load is to turn off all Windows Visual Effects. This is a good trade of for a 15% performance boost. (Source: Microsoft)To adjust all visual effects for best performance:

• Open Performance Information and Tools by clicking the Start button , and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type Performance Information and Tools, and then, in the list of results, click Performance Information and Tools.
• Click Adjust visual effects. If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
• Click the Visual Effects tab, click Adjust for best performance, and then click OK.
• To revert back, click Let Windows choose what's best for my computer, and then click OK.

Let me know if this works! Thanks, BK

Thanks for your help! I changed the settings you suggested and it seemed to make Windows 7 respond a little faster. Not sure it helped with FSX. I just started using W7 with FSX so I am still learning.

For fsx you want the performance option. The 'ramp up" to processor speed on demand can introduce minor stutters. I use my system for everything and I keep it clocked at 4.4GHZ all the time. There is no need for balanced at all - it won't affect the life of the processor and you get max performance all the time. So your email checks a little faster, or your web surfing is a little faster - that's not a bad thing! Performance all the way - no down side. Vic