Computer Electricity

We have already experienced rolling blackouts because of our current electricity woes in California. It looks like summer will be worse when all the air conditioners will be cranked up across the state. We are even facing hefty increases to remind us of the crisis. So what about our computers? How much of our current problems can be blamed on the increase in use of computers?

According to the Electric Power Research Institute, computers consume about 13% of the nation's power. A personal computer and its peripherals typically accounts for an additional 5% usage of electricity. Typically, our computer requires 200 watts to operate.

However, the web's infrastructure is an even larger user of electricity. The servers that store all those web pages and host us on the Internet are guzzlers of electricity. Often referred to as "server farms" these computer complexes that handle Internet traffic eat up the energy equivalent of 150,000 homes. Many of these farms are located in California. Additionally, the refrigeration units that cool the computer centers could use updating to more modern (efficient) units.

In a recent report to the Governor by the California Public Utilities Commission and the Electricity Oversight Board it was noted "the effects of the digital economy on energy requirements will be felt even more strongly over the next few years. Over the last three years the amount of information available on the Internet has increased ten-fold." Such an increase in traffic increases our personal usage and the need for more server farms to handle our needs.

We have heard repeatedly that the energy solution will not be easy or overnight. So, what can we do to protect ourselves from blackouts and brownouts?

• First, keep your computer off unless you are using it and remember to backup frequently. Sudden losses in power can result not only in lost data, but also in a broken computer.
• Secondly, invest in a quality surge protector. In fact, consider buying one for your other expensive electrical equipment, including your stereo and TV.

A good surge protector will ensure no damage results from any spikes in power. But, quality varies greatly. A $10 protector will only keep you safe from a large variation in power; even more damaging are minor fluctuations which can go unnoticed. These require enhanced units usually costing about $50. However, they often guarantee your data and equipment from loss.

You may also want to invest in a Universal Power Source or Backup battery. Starting at about $100 they're meant to allow you enough time to safely close out of your programs and turn your computer off. If you have a home office or keep business documents on your machine, think carefully!

We certainly all need to take precaution and conserve. Perhaps instead of playing electronic games, chatting online or watching TV, we can read a book, take a walk or visit a friend. It could prove to be a wonderful variation.