need to build a low power computer

I need to build a low end computer that draws less power idle for tasks like downloading. It doesn't have to be fancy just that it won't draw a huge amount of power from the grid. I left my computer on forever and recently turned it off when not used and the savings on my electrical bill was significant. Any pointers on this?

So how about those mini form factor computers?

How much am I expected to spend on a simple computer that is based on a AMD Geode anyways (not going to use a case)

their power draw is comparable to a laptop right?

I've been thinking about it, and you'd probably be happier and be less expensive to go VIA. I haven't found much on the Geode line from AMD.

Here's the MB and proc:

http://www.google.com/products?q=v [...] h+Products

And cases:

http://www.google.com/products?q=v [...] ch&show=dd

Plus the ITX standard is compatible with more standard PC parts I believe

EDIT: Well, it looks like I found this on the Geode finally: http://www.google.com/products?q=a [...] ch&show=dd

Yes, I believe their powerdraw would compare to a laptop.

Just get a lowend Core2 like the e4300 at stock speed or a 65W amd chip. Get a case that has a PSU maybe a 400W or something. A large passive cooler and an exhaust fan. Set your pc's power saving settings to go to sleep when you aren't using it. Just stick with a single hard drive and that's all. Either that or get one of those slim PC from dell or HP or something. They use the lower powered laptop chips and use very low power.

Super link...alot of cool tinker toys for the big boys .

i built one low power computer with scrap lying in the garage recently.
Specs:
Pentium 166 MMX underclocked to 133Mhz @1.8V
128 MB SDRAM
20 GB 2.5" Laptop HDD
SiS 530 based mother board
Dlink Ethernet adapter.

The whole setup now draws very little power. Removed the stock hearsink that was stuck and replaced it with an old P3 heatsink with the fan removed. It barely gets warm to touch.

I get more than 20 hours backup on my 300VA UPS running on a 60Ah car battery.

During the day i can completely run the computer off the grid via 40W Solar Panels.

You can get better power efficiency if you use the newer Mini ITX or Pico ITX boards.....but for this config i did not spend a dime.

For downloading from a low power device you would really be hard pressed to beat an ARM based NAS running linux like a SLU2, DLink DNS 323, etc... If you don't mind a little bit of linux work you can run a device that uses a handful of watts has it's own HDD that only gets spun up when it's needed and it can run all of your favourite downloaders. The HDD adds a few watts when its spinning but thats all. Even the fan only runs when it needs to.

Hello susanpret88,

@ rahimiv If botting and low power computing for DLing is what you desire I would absolutely have to suggest th Intel platform of the Atom 330 @ 1.6GHz on Intel D945GCLF2: 41W idle, 45W loaded.



It is well efficient enough to run those tasks and more. I tend to stay away from via platforms except for CarPCs That are only really going to be a low power media Pc (no HD.) Even then I would choose something like the Via C7 2.0 GHZ with the jetway J7f5M motherboard combo. This route is much pricier than buying Intel but it does use less power (toss up), it has DVI and Atom D945GCLF does not. Aslo while the C7 2.0Ghz is a decent processor it does not have the balls of the Atom dual core 330 @ 1.6 ghz).

http://www.mini-itx.com/store/bask [...] qty=1&c=34

I have personally used both these boards and others. Aside from particular reasons to use another board for other purposes there is no reason why either one of these Specified Motherboard combos will not get the job done and then some if you would like. Be mindful that if you need DVI get the J7F5M motherboard if you do not do yourself a favor and get the Atom 330 D945GCLF (this board will even run MAC OSX10.5.5). It is your choice Mate. Their are plenty to choose from. Look around @

www.mini-itx.com

www.logicsupply.com

www.mini-box.com

www.intel.com/go/miniITX

www.minipc.ca

www.itxdepot.com

www.TigerDirect.com

www.mitxpc.com

I could go on and on with links but, I'm sure you will find what you need within one of these Sites.

Also a good way to keep down those watts is to use a solid state PSU such as a Pico PSU or better. Look around Mate you will find it all. Its just a click away.

Hi ya!

I need some advice, I'm looking to put together a file server using very low power hw and freenas. So, I thought the Jetway J7F3 AMD Geode NX1750 Mainboard + 2x 500gb 2.5" hdd's. although this would be great for a home file server, I need it for a small office with 5 pcs which will use it for there main network storage. I will also be connecting 2x external HDDs for backup through bacula. Seeing as there are no media requirements, is the geode powerfull enough?

Cheers

have you looked at the Fit-pc2. runs on 6 watts. and is smaller then a CD.
with all the power of a desktop. check out www.fit-pc.ie