The 'connected age' is defined by our almost subconscious use of computers. We rely on our laptops, desktops and tablets to see us through the day. The general perception is that these devices automatically switch to 'power save' mode when idle. But the truth is far from it. A staggering amount of power is wasted because we don't switch off our laptops and desktops, at home and work, even when they are not in use. Imagine that amount multiplied by the number of computer users. In a world where non-renewable energy is already scarce, this isn't a luxury the planet can afford.
An experiment conducted in the US with a standard desktop computer and an intelligent power meter to measure energy usage, revealed that 545.792 kWh of power is wasted annually by a single CPU that is kept switched on even when the computer is idle. Add to that the power consumed by the monitor, and the annual energy wastage cost of the computer rises to $96.64. For a company with even 100 employees, that means $9,664 worth of wasted energy. (Average Energy cost per Kwh = 11 cents, as of November 2012 in the US.)
To help us break the habit, TBWA\India, and Sanctuary Asia have devised ‘Roaming Switch' - a simple, free to download, energy saving mobile app. Roaming Switch allows you to switch off your computer from wherever you are, be it the corner store or a beach far away from the city. All you need to do is, download the mobile app, pair it with your desktop/laptop, enter the pairing key generated by the mobile app and enjoy total control over your devices even from afar. Not only do you help conserve energy, you also save money in the process. The conserved energy reflects on your electricity bills. Currently, Roaming Switch is available for Android users.
The app also allows you to schedule auto-shutdowns and set reminders to notify you that your computer is on. Roaming Switch, if used by individuals and organisations, can lead to enormous energy conservation. And, with its reminder options, it feels like a familiar throwback to a more resource-friendly era, when mothers and grandmothers would issue warnings to switch off lights and fans.
Bittu Sahgal, Founding Editor of Sanctuary Asia said, "Using technology to help us live greener lives is inevitable. Sanctuary Asia is benefits greatly from the digital revolution and we owe it to our networks to share this simple but effective app. Give it a bash!"
Parixit Bhattacharya, Chief Creative Officer of TBWA\India adds: "Roaming Switch is yet another utility we have created to help change behaviour for the greater good. Idle computers consume a staggering amount of electricity cumulatively. If each of us switched off our computers more often, it will have a significant positive impact."
Download Roaming Switch from:
Website: www.roamingswitch.com
Google Play link: http://bit.ly/1yNfkoy
