Energy saving tips - Computers

Saving power in 20 seconds is a simple step every computer owner can do. Simply activate the ENERGY STAR® saver on your PC.

Steps: (For a Windows® based PC:

1. Click on My Computer

2. Click on Control Panel

3. Click on Power Management

4. Set monitor turn-off time (15 minutes recommended). This will shut your monitor off after the set time, saving 75 watts of electricity. To reactivate the monitor, move your mouse or hit any key. Your monitor will power back on.

5. Set system standby time (30 minutes recommended). This will put the rest of your system on standby after the set time, saving approximately 80 watts. To reactivate the system, move your mouse or hit any key. Your system will power back on after 15 to 30 seconds. Check to ensure that your computer will not lose network connection in standby mode. If you are unsure, only set the monitor turn off time.

You Should Know...

General: By leaving the machine on around the clock, you run up your electric bill, more dust is drawn into the machine and you make your computer more vulnerable to power surges. An ENERGY STAR® label is not a guarantee that your machine is saving energy. Always make sure that the ENERGY STAR® features are enabled.

Computers: A well-designed ENERGY STAR® labeled computer will not lose its network connection, which could lead to a loss of data, while in the low-power or sleep mode. Most computers manufactured today include the capability to sleep intelligently on a network. Effective July 1, 1999, ENERGY STAR® specifications require all computers with network capability to sleep on networks and to respond to computer requests to reactivate.