How disk drives are like light bulbs

Green IT and energy efficiency are all the rage. But they’re not just topics for large data centers, and not just about saving the planet:

• There are schools that have used up all of the power allotted to them by their local utility.   They need lower power PCs or they can’t add any more computers to their classrooms.  Nortech has made a business out of this.
• Businesses have used up their power allotment as well. They’ve got to fit more gear within the same power envelope.
• Plain old cost savings are motivating companies to reduce their electric bill. Cooling costs for their IT equipment have a multiplier effect on core equipment power costs.

How can storage help?

Replace normal drives with low-power alternatives where they can get the job done.  For example, Seagate’s Constellation drive is a lower power alternative for some server applications. These drives have sophisticated power management features that allows them to get more done with less power.

It’s very much like replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact flourescent light bulbs.  Where appropriate, you can save alot of power and barely notice the change.