Power Down

so i finally got a laptop-- work related but i'm inching my way closer to wireless & catching up with everyone else! but my old school desktop has served me well... i've been thinking about how much extra energy is needed to power it. so here's some tips on minimizing your computer's power hungry level. and some small steps, easy to take, that save you energy & bucks.

ideal bite lists the big benefits:

• Cleaner air through sleeping...
  Desktop computers can cause 1,500 lb of CO2 per year; enabling sleep mode can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%.


• Saving bucks. Save up to $75 per computer per year.


• It's as simple as popping some Valerian. Changing your PC's settings or downloading a program that does it for you is easier than you think.
  

CO2 Saver - works with Windows XP or Vista.
Microsoft Windows Change Power Management Settings - how to change your settings manually in Vista. Windows XP users, click here.
Mac OS X Energy Use Calculator - calculate the amount of energy your Mac uses, then find out how to optimize your settings here.

more eco-friendly office tips here.