CA_Steve wrote:How do you use your CPU? What apps?

Mostly fairly lightweight apps (console based) and a Chromium browser under a very lightweight ArchLinux system. No gaming. Only CPU intensive stuff I do is compiling the odd C program and some image editing.

Currently I have the following mini-ITX system: Athlon II X2 240 CPU Zotac GeForce 8200-ITX mobo 4MB Antec mini-skeleton case 28 watts on idle I am thinking of upgrading the CPU and motherboard, possibly RAM as well. However, I would only do so if I can improve the standby power draw and reduce the ...

...But to be serious, any solution you will do will cost more than electricity you save this way. The machine is intended to be a home server, on 24/7, therefore: 365.25x24x4watts=35064 watt/hours = 35.1 KW/Hx0.09cents per KWH = $3.16 per year in electricity. As most simple switches can be purchase...

I have a Zotac GF-8200 mini-ITX, Athlon II X2-240 system that currently consumes about 32 watts at idle. I can get this down to 28 watts by removing the power cable to my LG DVD optical drive. As I rarely use the optical drive I would like to put a switch on the SATA power cable to that drive someho...

I want to build a mini-ITX low wattage system based around an Athlon II X2 240 CPU (Socket AM3) which I already have. I need some mini-ITX motherboard suggestions, that will do undervolting.

Any ideas appreciated.

If you already own a multimeter (volt-ohm meter or VOM) that is capable of measuring amperes (on a scale of up to at least 2 Amperes) then it is unnecessary for you to purchase a "Kill A Watt" meter to measure watts used by various appliances. You can use an easily constructed extension cable "harne...