NEC PowerMate Eco Computer
by TreeHugger on 10. 6.04
Our pals at MetaEfficient turned us on to this. It's the NEC PowerMate Eco, and it's processor runs cool, so it requires no fan; has low power consumption; and has no bulky boxes housing its components. It's simply screen, monitor, mouse, nice and clean-like. It's also one of few PCs to address recycling: the flat screen doesn't contain boron, and uses lead-free solder, which protects both ground water and people reclaiming parts after disposal. Plus, NEC's proprietary plastic is fully recyclable and uses nontoxic flame retardant. $1,600. ::NEC
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While all of the parts are made to be kinder and gentler to the earth - what would REALLY be more ECO friendly would be to allow for UPGRADEABLE computers. Too many manufacturers are producing products for a disposable economy. I bought a computer back in 1990 - I'm still able to use the same keyboard, mouse, case, some parts and the monitor. Sure time comes when parts are outdated and I have to replace them. But for the most part maybe once every 2 or 3 years I have to swap out a part to upgrade and try to recycle it. To me that is MUCH more eco-friendly than buying a computer that will be good for 2-3 years then be outdated and needs to be recycled.
Who is to say that a computer needs to be upgraded every 2-3 years? It depends on use. For simpler tasks such as internet, words processing and ordering the family photos you dont need that much power. Unless you are a pro or gamming addict new hardware is in much less demand then your average pc outlet would lead you to belive.
You have to take into account the fact that standards can and do change, meaning that in order to participate in the current generation of say, video cards, you'll have to upgrade your motherboard, and probably ram.
Cases, mice, keyboards and monitors are all re-usable.
I heard someone from Sun Microsystems talk about a box they're planning that connects to an operating system online - that way the upgrade is done online, and you keep the box for years. Maybe it's already out?
Nigel