Use a Computer Efficiently
Strip
Even if you’re good about turning your computer off when it’s not in use, you may be less apt to shut off all its related devices—speaker systems, backup memory, printers, etc. A “smart” plug strip will automatically do the job. These are especially useful for shutting off computer speakers, scanners, and other devices that may not have built-in power management of their own. For more information, see http://www.efficientproducts.org/product.php?productID=24.
Hibernate, sleep, and generally power down
Make sure the power management features of your computer are turned on. Follow this link to learn how: http://www.climatesaverscomputing.org/learn/saving-energy-at-home/.
In general, it makes sense to have your screen go to sleep after 10 minutes of inactivity and your computer go to sleep or hibernate after 20 to 30 minutes of inactivity. Both can be woken up quickly and reliably with today’s operating systems. This is also important for laptops, many of which operate very efficiently when on battery power, but are set to run at full power the minute they are plugged in to a wall outlet.
Remember the monitor
Replace your CRT (the ones that look like old televisions) monitor or pre-2004 LCD monitor with a highly efficient new TopTen-listed LCD monitor sized to fit your needs and not turned up to maximum brightness and contrast. The best new 19-21 inch monitors only draw about 20 to 25 watts – less than half the power of older models.
