With the electricity rates going up and global warming in mind, I often wonder how much net power does a computer really consumes.
For instance, I have an Antec 500W PS, Intel 6600 CPU, an ordinary video card, a couple of 120mm fans, and 3 HDD's. Am I really consuming 500 watts all the time because the PS is 500W one?
Also, what happens when the PC is idle or during stand by stage? I know each computer is different, but there must be some ball park numbers.
For instance, I have an Antec 500W PS, Intel 6600 CPU, an ordinary video card, a couple of 120mm fans, and 3 HDD's. Am I really consuming 500 watts all the time because the PS is 500W one?
Also, what happens when the PC is idle or during stand by stage? I know each computer is different, but there must be some ball park numbers.