My problem is related to CPU usage. When the CPU is Idle, CPU usage is at 2-7%, but when I start an application like a game, the CPU Usage skyrockets to 100% and remains there until I get out of the Application. Its exactly the same with many applications, that is, the CPU always jumps to %100 even if the application should not require 100% of CPU usage. When I leave the App. the CPU returns to 2-7%. I am monitoring the CPU Usage on Norton System doctor. Norton System diagnostics cannot correct the problem. Does anyone know why this happens or how I can correct it so that each application only uses the amount of CPU processing required? Also, My Physical Memory seems overloaded, but I don't know how judge its usage. It says I only have 50mb free at Idle, I don't know how to free it up. I have a Dell Inspiron 8000, 850 PIII, 256 Ram, ATI mobility 3D, 10gig drive (1.6 gig free), Win ME.

Sounds like a spyware problem , run spy bot or adaware and see if it helps.

Try using a program that frees up ram. such as MemTurbo II

Windows ME is a very bad "memory hog". If you have a scanner or printer installed on the comp, it will check to see if anything has changed about these things periodically. When it checks these things, it will NOT let go of the memory that it used to check. So the longer it sets, the more memory it uses. Try uninstalling these things (provided you have the setup disks that came with the hardware) and see if it corrects your problem.