Reading time: 2 – 3 minutes
Worldwide concerns have been focused on reducing the environmental impact of computing particularly on carbon footprints. Carbon Footprints refers to the total set of GHG (Green House Gas) emissions caused by entities directly or indirectly which can be related to various forms of heat generated per kWh of electricity. Most of us may not be aware of this but imagine how a simple tweak can help you take part in saving the environment and taking control of your hard earned cash.
For most computer users, turning it off while not in use can be a hassle when you’re in a hurry and had to turn it on to use it but imagine how much unconsumed heat it releases and the power consumption it carries when you leave it on standby for hours. Do you think that the best way to save money and turn your PC into a Green computer is to just turn it off and unplug it when not in use? What do you think?
If you’re not into this idea, you can still reduce the amount of power your computer consumes when it’s idle by applying optimization steps or tweaks into your Windows power-saving settings.
Windows XP Power Options Properties
XP users can find this via Control Panel> Performance and Maintenance> Power Options> with Power Schemes normally on default depending on the type of machine you’re using. You only have to set the settings you prefer. I really don’t use the settings much because I only prefer shutting down and unplugging my PC when I’m not using it. How about you? Do you have any power saving tips, tweaks or best practices you’d like to share?
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
This can be a big problem, especially in offices where tenants’ electricity is built into their rent. They have no incentive to turn off the machines since they are not paying for the electricity. As an IT consultant, I try to tweak my clients’ power settings to save some electricity when they are not in use.
Hi Chris,
It’s good to know that there are still people like you who cares for their clients more than just their money. I admire you for that.
I must admit I do leave my computer running alot of the time when not in use, it is not really that hard to switch it on and off is it. If it is better for the environment then it is best to switch off.
Ollie @ Scrap Car Greenwich´s last blog ..The Car Scrappage Scheme
Right on, Ollie!
I totally agree with you, it really is not hard to turn the computer off I wish people would see sense and stop being lazy and do their bit for the environment.
Mike
Scrap Car London´s last blog ..How to scrap your car in London