I recently switched to running XP as a limited user after getting a virus. However, I soon realized that I couldn’t use my Sony VAIO S260′s power management features anymore. When I went into the VAIO Power Management tab, everything was grayed out. Logging in as Administrator, I could create profiles, but then I wouldn’t be able to see them in a regular user. Here’s the solution:
- Allow the limited user account (LUA) to change power options. This will let you change the Windows built-in options, but not the VAIO-specific options.
- Temporarily make your LUA administrator either manually (requires logout/login) or using MakeMeAdmin.
- Open up the Power Options control panel (
powercfg.cpl). - Set up your power profiles as you want them, using the VAIO Power Management tab. These will be visible since they’re created in your own user account, rather than Administrator’s.
- Now you’ll be able to switch between profiles without using MakeMeAdmin–just click the battery icon in the notification area. Changing the VAIO-specific options of profiles still requires MakeMeAdmin though.