Power usage

InTheDark · #1 11-09-2007, 09:59 AM

I leave two desktop PCs on all day to record audio. The monitors are off. Does anyone know the power used in watts for a PC not in idle mode? I'd assumed it was maybe 300.

jjshabado · #2 11-09-2007, 10:04 AM

Depends on the computer, obviously, but I think you're in the right area. I'd say 300-450ish if the monitors off.

Beavis68 · #3 11-09-2007, 12:55 PM

300-450ish would be max I would be surpised if it was outside the 100-200 range for something that simple. But it will depend a lot on processor, chipset and system configuration.

waarior · #4 11-10-2007, 01:57 PM

Computers draw much less power than people think. With a 30in and 20in dell monitor on and during typical use my system draws around 285 watts. (Full video or large repeated database querying will bump it up 20-30 watts)

I actually had a meter hooked up to my computer surge protector when I saw your post.

Running Pandora over the speakers with monitors off it was drawing 125 watts. This is with an Opteron 185(similar to Amd X2 5000+)and multiple hard drives etc. But I would expect your system regardless of what it is to be in the general range of 100-150 watts.

Was going to say it was about 185 watts but forgot I was running my desk lamp! Shows you how little power the computer is taking compared to even a single light bulb.