Abstract: A computer system having suspend and resume capabilities that uses the hard drive to extend the amount of nonvolatile memory (NVRAM) in the system. As the system is powered down, the system processor saves to the hard drive system parameters such as: resource allocation data determined pursuant to the Plug & Play specification, total power on hours for the system, the number of power on cycles for the system, error codes, and the dates the errors occurred. The saving to hard drive begins responsive to circuitry monitoring the primary (AC input) portion of the power supply indicating that the power supply input is out of tolerance, as would occur when the user actuates the power switch to turn the system off or during a blackout. During the period of reliable processing time remaining, the above system parameters are written to the hard file. The system parameters are also saved to the hard file during the controlled power off that occurs as the system state is suspended.