Measured Performance of Energy-Efficient Computer Systems

Abstract

The intent of this study is to explore the potential performance of both Energy Star computers/printers and add-on control devices individually, and their expected savings if collectively applied in a typical office building in a hot and humid climate. Recent surveys have shown that the use of personal computer systems in commercial office buildings is expanding rapidly. The energy consumption of such a growing end-use also has a significant impact on the total building power demand. In warmer climates, office equipment energy use has important implications for building cooling loads as well as those directly associated with computing tasks. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has developed an Energy Star (ES) rating system intended to endorse more efficient equipment. To research the comparative performance of conventional and low-energy computer systems, four Energy Star computer systems and two computer systems equipped with energy saving devices were monitored for power demand. Comparative data on the test results are summarized. In addition, a brief analysis uses the DOE-2.1E computer simulation to examine the impact of the test results and HVAC interactions if generically applied to computer systems in a modern office building in Florida's climate.