FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Linux Software Saves 11 Tonnes of CO/2 Per Year in Computer Waste
Currently, less than three percent of the world's population owns a computer, yet computer hardware production and disposal is one of the fastest growing threats to our environment
CALGARY, Canada–March 29, 2005–The Desktop Multiplier for Novell Linux Desktop offers an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional computers by turning one computer into ten fully independent workstations. Modern desktop computers sit idle 98% of the day while users read or type. The Desktop Multiplier software lets users share a single Novell Linux Desktop computer by installing extra dual-headed video cards. This leverages unused computing power to create an environmentally-efficient alternative to traditional desktop computing. This Novell Linux Desktop software eliminates nine out of every ten computers by replacing up to ten computer boxes with a single shared computer box. On a ten-user system this software can reduce total CO2 emissions by as much as 33 tons over a three year lifespan. [See NOTES below for calculations]
Tim Griffin, President of Userful, who holds a Masters degree in Environmental Design said, "The Desktop Multiplier for Novell Linux Desktop, powered by Userful, is the product of four years and millions of dollars in research and development. Our goal was to bring an affordable and environmentally-friendly computing solution to the world. Currently, less than three percent of the world's population owns a computer, yet computer hardware production and disposal is one of the fastest growing threats to our environment. It is quite remarkable that something as intangible as software could reduce the environmental impact of computing by close to ninety percent."
In addition to the obvious power and air conditioning savings, the Desktop Multiplier software also reduces the environmental impact of computer hardware disposal. Computers have become one of the largest single contributors to electronic waste, globally. The disposal of computer components that contain lead, mercury, cadmium and a number of other persistent, toxic and bio-accumulative compounds present a growing threat to our water and air quality. By turning one computer into ten, but allowing users to reuse existing monitors and in some cases simply add video cards to the existing boxes, the Desktop Multiplier for Novell Linux Desktop software reduces the environmental impact of hardware disposal.
NOTES: Excluding the monitor, a computer uses about: 110 Watts during active periods, 60 Watts when idle (no power management) and 35 Watts in sleep mode. For library public access computer systems, this would correspond to 60 Watts for 10 hours and 35 Watts for the 14 remaining hours (assuming the computer is left on overnight). So 1.09 kilowatt hours per day for 6 days and 35 Watts all day Sunday. This gives 7.38 kWh per week and 384 kWh per year. If the Linux Desktop Multiplier system replaces ten PCs, the saving is slightly less than nine PCs (since the Novell Linux Desktop computer has four extra video cards), so the gain is about 8.5 PCs or 3,261 kWh. For electricity generated at 1.45 lbs of CO2 per kWh, the savings are 2.11 tons of CO2 per year. In a building that uses air conditioning, the environmental savings would be significantly higher.
This two-tons-per-year calculation ignores the cost of producing the hardware. Allowing for that increases the savings potential considerably. Given that the life cycle energy use of a computer is represents only 19% of its energy use (production represents the remaining 81%). The total production and operations savings over a 3-year life span of a 10-station Desktop Multiplier for Novell Linux Desktop computer would be 33 tonnes.
About Omni
Omni delivers a portfolio of management, security, mobility, messaging and Linux software enhancements for enterprise users of Novell eDirectory, GroupWise, Novell Linux Desktop, and mixed Novell and Microsoft networks. www.omni-ts.com
About Userful
For the past three years, Userful has been transforming the world of desktop computing with their unique ten-to-one multi-desktop software. Userful's innovation of turning one computer into ten has earned them the status of technology leaders in the field of desktop computing. With this compelling ten-to-one advantage, Userful has gained a strong presence in the library market; its mission is to become the dominant platform for affordable desktop computing worldwide. Userful's customers include libraries, academic institutions, Internet cafés and commercial businesses across North America, and is sold globally through a network of resellers. www.userful.com
Media Contact
Aldo Zanoni
CEO, Omni Technology Solutions Inc.
Phone: 780-423-4200
aldo@omni-ts.com
Ben Li
Marketing & PR Coordinator
Userful
Phone: 403-289-2177 ext. 223
benli@userful.com
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