Green Computing
I was talking with a computer tech at a business luncheon and asked him some questions about green computing. Green computing involves reducing power consumption on the computer. One of the interesting facts that we discussed was that it costs about $12.00 a month to leave a computer running all the time. For an average household that has more than one computer, this can get pricey. For a business, it can add up to some serious dollars.
So if it is costing extra money and using extra resources, why are some still leaving their computers on? I have heard some explain that it is hard on their computer equipment, when they have to turn them off and on continually. Others are concerned about missing computer software updates. But what are the facts?
We know that hard drives have gotten better in regards to performance and durability. The hard drives today are far superior than those of days gone by for the most part. Personally, I shut all my computers off when I am done with them. I have not replaced a hard drive in any of my computers yet. The hardware today, for the most part, should not be a reason to keep your computer running all the time. Check with your local computer shop to find out specific details regarding your computer. When in doubt, ask your computer repair person. Don't go by what your neighbor thinks, find out the facts for yourself.
What about the updates? Computer updates, for example Microsoft Updates, can be scheduled to occur when it is best for you. Some updates occur seamlessly throughout the day, depending on when you have turned the computer on. Many updates do not take a lot of time to do. This really is not a good excuse to leave a computer on all the time. Servers are a different story.
My friend Mike Lovell has developed a great web site for green computer. Here is the link: Tinted Green - Green Computing Solutions . You will find great ideas and thought provoking information on Mike's site.
Over time, I hope to add information to this page to help you conserve and reduce your energy consumption on your computer. If you have any information or comments, please feel free to contact me.
Remember that it is the small efforts that really add up. Our action now will help our children later.
Here is a tip you can use:
When getting ready to Print a document, make sure that you Print Preview the document first. This will give you a chance to check out the document layout, appearance and such for errors. Doing this will help avoid wasted paper, ink and power. This may sound simple, but think how much was wasted the last time someone forgot to use Print Preview. Maybe the Header or Footer was wrong for example. A quick check using Print Preview can avoid costly mistakes. Remember the little things can add up, especially if you are using color.
Keys Links For Nova Scotia Area For Green Computing
- Information for recycling old computers: http://www.acestewardship.ca/
- Nova Scotia Power web site: http://www.nspower.ca/energy_efficiency/appliance_office/computers.shtml
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