why would that make a difference? and usually only running AIM, Windows Live Messenger, Thunderbird, and Firefox, uTorrent, and Sophos AV (plus all of the startup !@#$%^&*) but none of that should cause low FPS well it can. My winamp and MSN pop-up windows cause my FPS to plummet whilst they are displayed. Anything pulling on GFX power will hinder it so several thins will have a combined effect.