Computer power consumption and management: “Earth, wind, and fire: Sustainable energy for the 21st century” research experience for undergraduates

There is a huge potential to save energy on computers and in university computer labs. With many computers sitting idle during nights and weekends when they are rarely used, power management techniques could have both monetary and energy savings. Through the use of a Watts Up? Pro ES power meter, the energy consumption of different computers and user activities was explored on the Kansas State University campus. Energy Star computers were found to be much more efficient for all activities, averaging 52% less energy use than the other computers tested. To implement energy management techniques (such as the use of Faronics PowerSave software), more studies need to be done on computer usage in the computer labs during the school year. This will allow for effective power management settings while balancing user convenience and energy savings.