How much energy does a computer use?

Answer 1

Computers run off of DC power. There is an internal converter on desktops, and the large block on a laptop cord is the converter for them. On laptops, a battery runs things, batteries are DC power.

Answer 2

A few hundred watts, at the most. It really depends what is included in the computer. The best thing you can do to save energy is to get one of the modern flat monitors - those use much less energy than the old-fashioned big (CRT) screens. The electrical specifications on the power supply (often limited to something like 500W) merely refer to the MAXIMUM power that the power supply may deliver; if that power is passed, the power supply might get damaged. However, depending on what is inside the computer (how many hard disks, what kind of CPU, etc.), the computer may actually use quite a bit less.

My computer consumes about 75 watts with normal use. If I am using the CD or DVD it will be higher. Fast graphics or other intensive uses could push it higher. It has a Phenon triple core processor and a 450 watt 80% efficiency power supply. Using a cheaper power supply, usage was about 83 watts.

I am using a 16" asus lcd monitor which consumes 14 watts. I think my 22" at home uses about double that.

This information was obtained using a Kill A Watt Electricity Load Meter which I got for less than $20 at New Egg

A desktop computers power/energy consumption varies from system to system. Every monitor and PSU (power unit) model has its own rated power usage. If you look up your monitors (screens) power usage online and then add that to your PSU (Big power box inside of case that powers all the insides) You will have you power usage. That is only an estimate as the efficiency and amount of power required (less power used when your not doing anything, more when your doing something such as gaming/internet) also effect the outcome.

For a gaming, enthusiast, graphic design, high end system a 750W-1200W PSU are most commonly used.

For a basic home used computer the power usage varies from approximately 300W-750W

Original answer:

My computer consumes about 75 watts with normal use. If I am using the CD or DVD it will be higher. Fast graphics or other intensive uses could push it higher. It has a Phenon triple core processor and a 450 watt 80% efficiency power supply. Using a cheaper power supply, usage was about 83 watts.

I am using a 16" asus lcd monitor which consumes 14 watts. I think my 22" at home uses about double that.

This information was obtained using a Kill A Watt Electricity Load Meter which I got for less than $20 at New Egg