In the August 2006 issue of PCW, Julian Gough wrote about the need for manufacturers and software developers to try and reduce boot up times as an incentive for users to turn off their home computers when they are not in use. Kelvyn Taylor mentioned the use of hibernation, bar poorly written software which needs to be improved upon.

Whilst this might be true, recent hardware is becoming increasingly power efficient (well, apart from the fastest graphics cards) or otherwise more environmentally friendly anyway (by avoiding the use of lead, etc).

Examples of environmentally friendly hardware include the Intel Pentium Mobile processor range and the associated mobile chipset motherboards for desktop PCs.

I use such a configuration and have the ability to fully customise the settings for processor and fan speed throttling based on CPU load and temperature monitoring.

Also given that such computers typically consume <100 watts when they peak and feature highly advanced standby support (very much like hibernating, but with an instant recovery achieved by keeping the RAM active) I reckon if you are environmentally conscious and don't mind spend just a bit more money, it is very possible to have a hassle free, pretty green PC today.

John Sommer