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Computers

ENERGY STAR® qualified computers and computer components must meet energy use guidelines in three distinct operating modes: stand-by, sleep mode and while they are in use.

Facts & Product Knowledge:

• ENERGY STAR qualified desktops, integrated computers, desktop-derived servers, and gaming consoles consume 2 watts or less energy when switched off and 4 watts or less energy when in sleep mode
• ENERGY STAR qualified notebooks and tablets consume 1 watt or less energywhen switched off and 1.7 watts or less energy when in sleep mode

Tips:

• By leaving the machine on around the clock, your electric bill increases, dust is sucked into the unit, and power surges can occur
• Refer to the owners manual to take advantage of all the computer’s energy saving features
• Always check to ensure that the ENERGY STAR features are enabled
• A screen saver does not actually save energy as it still draws power from the monitor. It is better to shut the monitor off when you are away from the computer.
• Good: Unplug all peripherals and computer when not in use if the memory function is not needed
• Better: Use a basic power strip to plug in all of your peripherals and computer, this allows you to shut them all off with the click of a button when not in use
• Even Better: Use a basic power strip and a plug in timer to allow you to automatically shut the entire power strip off for extended periods of time when the peripherals and computer are not in use
• Best: Use an advanced power strip with a built in timer. These units typically have three sets of power outlets on one power strip. Two outlets are constant on for items that must have constant power for memory, two strips to set a timer to operate for a set time frame, and then tow additional outlets that can be set for a separate operating timer.
• The Very Best: Use a “power master” power strip. This type of power strip has one special (master) outlet to plug your computer into and 5 more outlets for the computers peripherals. When the computer is turned off it automatically shuts off the power to the remaining 5 outlets and that completely powers off the peripherals which means zero standby energy use. This is a new technology and is becoming more available every day.