rpc180 -- great stats page, and a curious motivation!
I totally support Neil's message: it looks like we can really move smartly up the ranks, but we still need more people. The past week's 13,000+ points is great, but to get past 50, I think we're going to have to hit at least 20,000 points/week steady.
For those who have been reluctant to join in because of concerns about the software, don't bother with the yikyak here about the different variants. Just download the simple windows version, turn off the graphical stuff, leave it minimized, and just go on using your PC as you ever did.
This is what I've done, and I have to say I am totally impressed at how smart the folding@home windows software is. It never gets in the way of my work, the priority must be set quite low. Yet the CPU is always at 100% -- any unused cycles are always in use.
It is actually a very good test for stability of undervolted, low airflow quiet systems. It forced me to pay attention to my main machine due to uncomfortably high temps -- turns out dust was a major culprit, and a HS clip that had loosened over time. Both potential disastor I might not have caught without the folding@home running.
In terms of electric consumption, I checked 2 of my folding PCs, a 1.8 P4 and a 2.5 P4 -- the first was drawing 91W AC and the second 98W. The total AC power draw of all 4 systems folding right now is ~same as a single big tv. But a lot less than a typical electric clothes dryer (2500W!)
Anyway, all this is to say there are many good reasons to pitch in here, it's challenging, kinda fun and the exposure may help SPCR get better for everyone.