Green Computing

This article is Intended to be a collection of ways to make your Computer more environmentally friendly.

Modern Computers are power hungry things. There are many things we can do to reduce the amount of power they use. As a General rule laptops use less than Desktops, and LCD (Flat screens) Screens use less than CRT (big fat screens).

Suggestions for your current PC:

* Switch your computer off when you're not using it, Especially over night and if you will be out for the day.
* If your going to be away from it for a short time then turn off the monitor. You can also adjust the power management using the control panel to turn off your hard drive and put your system into standby after a set amount of time.
* For more advanced users remove unnecessary fans and Drives. If you have a spare CD-ROM you use once in a blue moon unplug it. Also if your computer is only used for office work or checking your email unplug excess devices you do not use.
* Install Power management Programs like Local Cooling or Snap CO2 Saver. These programs basically just adjust your Power management settings though so are pointless if you know how to do this.
* Print wisely - Only print what you really need to have a paper copy of and resist the urge to print 'all pages' when you only need what is on one particular page. There is software available that can help with this, or simply use the "print preview" to see which pages you really need and only print those pages.
* Refill Ink-jet cartridges and laser toner; its cheaper and doesn't add to landfill
* Switch off Cable Modems, Routers and Wifi Access Points when not in use / overnight
* Replace your internal hard drive with a low energy solution such as Western Digital's Green Drive
* An exernal hard drive is also useful to backup your content, or to use as simple add-on storage capacity. Like the SimpleTech redrive, look for one that is energy efficient and Energy Star qualified, is made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and aluminum and is conscious about its packaging.
* Use a Google alternative, such as Smallest Google, saving energy, time, and bandwidth.


Suggestions for buying a new PC:

* Buy a Laptop! Laptops use less power than a desktop.
* Buy a computer according to your needs. If your only using it for simple tasks don't buy the most powerful available.
* Choose the latest Intel or VIA processors over AMD as they use less power. VIA is the best for the environment although not as powerful.
* If you are going to build your own PC pick the parts carefully. Instead of getting two 1gb chips, buy one 2gb one. Build the computer to your needs don't install unnecessary parts if you will never use them. Also consider certified 80 plus energy efficient power supplies 80 PLUS Program
* If you are concerned about hazards chemicals used in pc components consult Greenpeace's Green Electronics Ranking or The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.
* Choose Corded Keyboard and Mouse over wireless.
* As a general rule ink-jet printers use much less energy than laser ones however the inks in inkjet printers spoil clean paper recycling processes.

Source :http://green.wikia.com