[CpxAzn]

My laptop has AMD 1.8ghz Turion dual core but then whenever i check in the my computer properties, it shows up as 700mhz? Is this normal or is there something I have to install/enable?

[Ferret_Style]

On battery most cut the speed to preserve battery and even then some still do the cut speed when on a/c power if you are not using it. Depends on settings of the maker.

[RaveneR]

processors from 2 years ago have already started on using idle throttling, such that when you dont need so much processing power from the CPU, it automatically "underclock" itself to save power and the processor's life itself.

[daedal]

Yup. It's most likely some power conservation thing. Try it while you're plugged in and charging the battery. It should remain at a stable speed.

However, when you jump to battery powered, the CPU should automatically throttle down when it's idle to save power. Check your BIOS, you might find some options in there.