STEP-BY-STEP

8 Ways To Reduce Server Power Consumption

Step 7: Monitor The Monitors

Whenever possible, replace old CRT monitors with modern flat-panel LCD screens that use as little as a third as much power. (Note: You can also forgo the screen saver with modern monitors; static images aren't etched into the screen as with the old CRTs. If you do use a screen saver, have it display a blank screen as that will save a bit of power.)

In fact, you may not need a monitor at all -- server needs a monitor only on special occasions. If you have multiple servers, one monitor can serve them all using a device called a KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch; two-port KVM switches cost as little as $10. All your servers will share the same keyboard, video screen, and mouse.

Step 8: Be Cool About A/C

In a data center, the air is supposed to be cooled to about 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Centigrade.) But in an open office, with free circulation, air kept at the comfort level of the employees should be fine.

In typical office settings, a few simple suggestions will help keep your servers from overheating:

Scatter you servers in several locations, rather than clumping them all in a corner. That way they won't heat each other.

Put servers on desks or tables rather than the floor, to avoid dust that could block air circulation.

Make sure server ventilation ports are not blocked by cables or facing into a wall.

Do not put servers in direct sunlight.

Clean all servers at regular intervals, including opening the cover and removing the accumulated dust.

Don't rely on ceiling fans. Servers don't sweat, so blowing warm air at them will not cool them.

In dry climates, it's tempting to rely on evaporative coolers, which add chilled water vapor to the air. However, these coolers produce additional humidity, which is not good for servers.

While the price of computing power continues to fall, the price of electrical power is on the rise. Consequently, as your organization acquires additional computing power it will eventually trigger hefty energy expenses unless you focus on reducing power consumption. Fortunately, as these steps show, conserving power and reducing the amount of electricity your servers need doesn't have to be difficult or complicated.

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