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Greening your IT System – Green IT initiatives

Whether you are looking a upgrading or replacing your computer systems, it's a perfect time to look for ways to ‘green’ your IT System.  If you are getting new servers and desktops, there are many ways to reduce energy consumption that will not adversely affect productivity.  Upgrading to energy efficient monitors and locating printers for maximum efficiency are other ways that you can be ‘green’ and save money.

Going Green

The foundation of being "IT Green" is reducing consumption without reducing productivity and efficiency.  A good side-effect of reducing consumption is that you can reduce costs.  So with some thought and planning, your green IT initiatives can save you money while you save the environment. 

New equipment

Purchase new equipment that is energy efficient, multi-purpose and has an extended life-cycle.   The average PC has a life expectancy of just over 3 years.  By centralizing your computing needs, you can significantly extend that life.  If you still have CRTs, now is the time to upgrade to LCDs.
Look at virtualization (server, application, desktop) options that can give you increased computing in the most efficient configuration.  See the Microsoft primer on types of virtualization - http://www.microsoft.com/virtualization/en/us/products-server.aspx

Centralize printing and use all-in-one devices for shared functionality.  Go electronic whenever possible.

Existing equipment

Extend the life of computers by adding RAM or disk when possible. Use power saver settings for individual units and energy monitoring software for the network. Replace energy wasting equipment like CRTs, older printers with new Energy Star products.   Energy Star offers free power monitoring programs EZ Save and EZ Wizard that are available to download from their site - http://www.energystar.gov. 

Use the built in Windows energy save functions like standby and hibernation.

Look at a commercial program like itControl Suite to manage your energy consumption and printer utilization.

Recycle

Responsible recycling is essential.  Computer equipment and electronics should all be reused if possible and environmentally recycled at the end of their life. Be sure to recycle your print cartridges also. The EPA eCycling has tips and lists recycling programs. 

LAN Systems would be happy to arrange for recycling or donating to your favorite non-profit through our recycling program.