Underclock in 2D mode

[RSX311]

I have my x800XL overclocked with ATI Tool and ATI Tool has the option to load an Overclock profile when a 3D application is detected. My question is, is it better to have your card underclocked in windows? Like if I have my card underclocked below stock will it use up less power and have less heat generated? I heard the nvidia cards underclock themselves when in 2D mode. So when I have a 3D app loaded it'll use the Overclock setting, then when I quit the 3D app, it'll go back to the underclock state. Think thats a good idea?

 

[odd nimrod]

I doubt that you would see a difference power wise because it is idleing either way and the power consumption at idle is low. As for the temps I would think that you would have to lower the frequency quite a bit for this. I too use ATI tool, but I don't have a temp monitor for my card so I cant test it.

 

[RSX311]

hmmm, yeah maybe I'll test it. I'll underclock it a bit and monitor my temps. It idles kinda high around 38-40°C. Hopefully I won't get any stability problems underclocking it either.