green computing

Just in time for Earth Day, AOL has released a "Green Toolbar and PC Utility." If you're like me the computer basically has a sort of 'diplomatic immunity' when it comes to energy consumption issues. However, this new utility from AOL looks like a great way to "greenify" your computer.

The utility, which is free to download, reduces your computer's energy consumption by adjusting both monitor and power settings. These adjustments can result in using up to 100 kilowatts less per year which, according to energystar.gov,

Lenovo's M57p eco sips less power than a 60 watt light bulb, yet comes full-featured for the corporate or small business user. The case saves on space and materials, measuring just 9x11 inches, with a 3 inch height. Not only is the machine

Energy Star 4.0 certified, but when it comes time to recycle or dispose of the unit the components are RoHS compliant (no heavy metals or dangerous flame retardants). The Intel processor is a Wolfdale-based Core 2 Duo E8400 rated at 45 watts. When the desktop is idling, power consumption

The Toronto based company, Softchoice, has unveiled a searchable database that will allow consumers to compare various computing products and identify the most eco-friendly among them. The database contains over 350,000 products from various computing categories.

Softchoice gathered the data from CNET Networks and the Green Electronics Council's database of products that have met EPEAT standards. The Council uses EPEAT (Electronic Products Environmental Assesment Tool)to evaluate computing equipment on 23 mandatory criteria and 28 optional criteria that measure a products environmental sustainability, which includes packaging, materials selection, longevity and end of life design. Products that meet 23 criteria are awarded a bronze certificate while those that