With the introduction of Windows Vista, you no longer need to look at five different applications to keep your notebook under control.  Now you can use Windows Mobility Center to have access to the common controls you would use with your laptop in one place.

As you can see from the picture above, you have access to your volume, battery control, wireless, display, Bluetooth, etc.  Depending on the manufacturer, you may have additional options available.

How do you access the mobility center?

Hold down the Windows Key + X.