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ENERGY STAR Program Requirements
for Computers
DRAFT 3
Table of Contents
Partner Commitments
Commitments
Performance for Special Distinction
Eligibility Criteria
Section 1: Definitions
Section 2: Qualifying Products
Section 3: Energy Efficiency and Power Management Criteria
Tier 1 Requirements
Tier 2 Requirements
Section 4: Test Procedures
Section 5: Effective Date
Section 6: Future Specification Revisions
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Appendix A: ENERGY STAR Draft Test Procedure for Determining the Power Use of Computers in Standby,
Sleep, and Idle
ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for Computers: Draft 3 Version 4.0

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LNr.RGY SIAH
PARTN'Ni
ENERGY STAR® Program Requirements
for Computers
50	Partner Commitments
51	DRAFT 3
52
.53	
54
55	Commitments
56	The following are the terms of the ENERGY STAR Partnership Agreement as it pertains to the
57	manufacturing of ENERGY STAR qualified computers. The ENERGY STAR Partner must adhere to the
58	following program requirements:
59
60	• comply with current ENERGY STAR Eligibility Criteria, defining the performance criteria that must be
61	met for use of the ENERGY STAR certification mark on computers and specifying the testing criteria
62	for computers. EPA may, at its discretion, conduct tests on products that are referred to as ENERGY
63	STAR qualified. These products may be obtained on the open market, or voluntarily supplied by
64	Partner at EPA's request;
65
66	• comply with current ENERGY STAR Identity Guidelines, describing how the ENERGY STAR marks
67	and name may be used. Partner is responsible for adhering to these guidelines and for ensuring that
68	its authorized representatives, such as advertising agencies, dealers, and distributors, are also in
69	compliance;
70
71	• qualify at least one ENERGY STAR computer model within one year of activating the computers
72	portion of the agreement. When Partner qualifies the product, it must meet the specification (e.g., Tier
73	1 or 2) in effect at that time;
74
75	• provide clear and consistent labeling of ENERGY STAR qualified computers. The ENERGY STAR
76	mark must be clearly displayed:
77	1. On the top/front of the product. Labeling on the top/front of product may be permanent or
78	temporary. All temporary labeling must be affixed to the top/front of product with an adhesive or
79	cling-type application;
80	Electronic Labeling Option: Manufacturers have the option of using an alternative electronic
81	labeling approach in place of this product labeling requirement, as long it meets the following
82	requirements:
83
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92	EPA will consider alternative proposals for electronic labeling on a case-by-case basis.
93
94	2. In product literature (i.e., user manuals, spec sheets, etc.);
95	3. On product packaging for products sold at retail; and
ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for Computers: Draft 3 Version 4.0	2
The ENERGY STAR mark in cyan, black, or white (as described in The ENERGY STAR
Identity Guidelines" available at www.energystar.gov/logos) appears at system start-up. The
electronic mark will display for a minimum of 10 seconds, unless the product turn-on process
does not allow this. In this case the mark should show for as much time as possible, but for
no less than 5 seconds;
The ENERGY STAR mark must be at least 10% of the screen by area, may not be smaller
than 76 pixels x 78 pixels, and must be legible.

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4. On the manufacturer's Internet site where information about ENERGY STAR qualified models is
displayed:
- If information concerning ENERGY STAR is provided on the Partner Web site, as specified by
the ENERGY STAR Web Linking Policy (this document can be found in the Partner
Resources section on the ENERGY STAR Web site at www.enerqvstar.gov). EPA may
provide links where appropriate to the Partner Web site;
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Note: The packaging requirement is meant to distinguish qualified products to consumers in retail
settings. Thus, the labeling requirements have been changed to allow manufacturers preparing
products not destined for a retail setting to choose whether they wish to label the packaging of these
products. Clarifying language regarding the physical labeling of products has also been added.
•	provide to EPA, on an annual basis, an updated list of ENERGY STAR qualified computer models.
Once the Partner submits its first list of ENERGY STAR qualified computer models, the Partner will be
listed as an ENERGY STAR Partner. Partner must provide annual updates in order to remain on the
list of participating product manufacturers;
•	provide to EPA, on an annual basis, unit shipment data or other market indicators to assist in
determining the market penetration of ENERGY STAR. Specifically, Partner must submit the total
number of ENERGY STAR qualified computers shipped (in units by model) or an equivalent
measurement as agreed to in advance by EPA and Partner. Partner is also encouraged to provide
ENERGY STAR qualified unit shipment data segmented by meaningful product characteristics (e.g.,
capacity, size, speed, or other as relevant), total unit shipments for each model in its product line, and
percent of total unit shipments that qualify as ENERGY STAR. The data for each calendar year
should be submitted to EPA, preferably in electronic format, no later than the following March and may
be provided directly from the Partner or through a third party. The data will be used by EPA only for
program evaluation purposes and will be closely controlled. Any information used will be masked by
EPA so as to protect the confidentiality of the Partner;
•	notify EPA of a change in the designated responsible party or contacts for computers within 30 days.
Performance for Special Distinction
In order to receive additional recognition and/or support from EPA for its efforts within the
Partnership, the ENERGY STAR Partner may consider the following voluntary measures and should keep
EPA informed on the progress of these efforts:
•	consider energy efficiency improvements in company facilities and pursue the ENERGY STAR mark
for buildings;
•	purchase ENERGY STAR qualified products. Revise the company purchasing or procurement
specifications to include ENERGY STAR. Provide procurement officials' contact information to EPA
for periodic updates and coordination. Circulate general ENERGY STAR qualified product information
to employees for use when purchasing products for their homes;
•	ensure the power management feature is enabled on all ENERGY STAR qualified monitors and
computers in use in company facilities, particularly upon installation and after service is performed;
•	provide general information about the ENERGY STAR program to employees whose jobs are relevant
to the development, marketing, sales, and service of current ENERGY STAR qualified product
models;
•	provide a simple plan to EPA outlining specific measures Partner plans to undertake beyond the
ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for Computers: Draft 3 Version 4.0

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146	program requirements listed above. By doing so, EPA may be able to coordinate, communicate,
147	and/or promote Partner's activities, provide an EPA representative, or include news about the event in
148	the ENERGY STAR newsletter, on the ENERGY STAR Web pages, etc. The plan may be as simple
149	as providing a list of planned activities or planned milestones that Partner would like EPA to be aware
150	of. For example, activities may include: (1) increase the availability of ENERGY STAR qualified
151	products by converting the entire product line within two years to meet ENERGY STAR guidelines; (2)
152	demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits of energy efficiency through special in-store
153	displays twice a year; (3) provide information to users (via the Web site and user's manual) about
154	energy-saving features and operating characteristics of ENERGY STAR qualified products: and (4)
155	build awareness of the ENERGY STAR Partnership and brand identity by collaborating with EPA on
156	one print advertorial and one live press event;
157
158	• provide quarterly, written updates to EPA as to the efforts undertaken by Partner to increase
159	availability of ENERGY STAR qualified products, and to promote awareness of ENERGY STAR and
160	its message.
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ENERGY STAR Program Requirements
for Computers
Eligibility Criteria
DRAFT 3
[££_
167
168	Below is the DRAFT 3 Version 4.0 product specification for ENERGY STAR qualified computers. A
169	product must meet all of the identified criteria to earn the ENERGY STAR.
170
171	1) Definitions: Below are the definitions of the relevant terms in this document.
172
173	A. Computer: A device which performs logical operations and processes data. Computers are
174	composed of, at a minimum: (1) a central processing unit (CPU) to perform operations; (2) user
175	input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, digitizer or game controller; and (3) a display screen to
176	output information. For the purposes of this specification, computers include both stationary and
177	portable units, including desktop computers, gaming consoles, integrated computers, notebook
178	computers, tablet PCs, desktop-derived servers and workstations.
179
180	Components
181
182	B. Display: A commercially-available, electronic product with a display screen and its associated
183	electronics encased in a single housing, or within the computer housing (e.g., notebook or
184	integrated computer), that is capable of displaying output information from a computer via one or
185	more inputs, such as a VGA, DVI, and/or IEEE 1394. Examples of display technologies are the
186	cathode-ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal display (LCD).
187
188	C. External Power Supply: A component contained in a separate physical enclosure external to the
189	computer casing and designed to convert line voltage ac input from the mains to lower dc
190	voltage(s) for the purpose of powering the computer. An external power supply must connect to
191	the computer via a removable or hard-wired male/female electrical connection, cable, cord or
192	other wiring and have a nameplate output power less than or equal to 250 watts.
193
194	D. Internal Power Supply: A component internal to the computer casing and designed to convert ac
195	voltage from the mains to dc voltage(s) for the purpose of powering the computer components.
196	For the purposes of this specification, an internal power supply must be contained within the
197	computer casing but be separate from the main computer board. The power supply must connect
198	to the mains through a single cable with no intermediate circuitry between the power supply and
199	the mains power. In addition, all power connections from the power supply to the computer
200	components must be internal to the computer casing (i.e., no external cables running from the
201	power supply to the computer or individual components). Internal dc to dc converters used to
202	convert a single dc voltage from an external power supply into multiple voltages for use by the
203	computer are not considered internal power supplies.
204
205	Computer Types
206
207	E. Desktop Computer: A computer where the main unit is intended to be located in a permanent
208	location, often on a desk or on the floor. Desktops are not designed for portability and utilize an
209	external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Desktops are designed for a broad range of home and
210	office applications including, email, web browsing, word processing, standard graphics
211	applications, gaming, etc.
212
213
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214	F. Desktop-Derived Server: A desktop-derived server is a computer that typically uses desktop
215	components in a tower form factor, but is designed explicitly to be a host for other computers or
216	applications. For the purposes of this specification, a computer must be marketed as a server and
217	have the following characteristics to be considered a desktop-derived server:
218
219	• Designed and placed on the market as a Class B product per EuroNorm EN55022:1998 under
220	the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and has no more than single processor capability (1 socket on
221	board);
222
223	• Designed in a pedestal, tower, or other form factor similar to those of desktop computers such
224	that all data processing, storage, and network interfacing is contained within one box/product;
225
226	• Designed to operate in a high-reliability, high-availability application environment where the
227	computer must be operational 24 hours/day and 7 days/week, and unscheduled downtime is
228	extremely low (on the order of hours/year);
229
230	• Capable of operating in a simultaneous multi-user environment serving several users through
231	networked client units; and
232
233	• Shipped with an industry accepted operating system for standard server applications (e.g.,
234	Windows NT, Windows 2003 Server, Mac OS X Server, OS/400, OS/390, Linux, Unix and
235	Solaris).
236
237	Desktop-derived servers are designed to perform functions such as processing information for
238	other systems, providing network infrastructure services (e.g., archiving), data hosting and running
239	webservers.
240
241	This specification does not cover mid-range or large servers, defined for purposes of this
242	specification as:
243
244	• Designed and placed on the market as a Class A product per EuroNorm EN55022:1998 under
245	the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and designed and capable of having a single or dual
246	processor capability (1 or greater sockets on board); and
247
248	• Designed and placed on the market as a Class B product per EuroNorm EN55022:1998 under
249	the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and designed and capable of having a minimum dual
250	processor capability (2 sockets on board).
251
252	G. Game Consoles: Stand alone computers whose primary use is to play video games. For the
253	purposes of this specification, game consoles must use a hardware architecture based on typical
254	computer components (e.g., processors, system memory, video architecture, optical and/or hard
255	drives, etc.). The primary input for game consoles are special hand held controllers rather than
256	the mouse and keyboard used by conventional computer types. Game consoles are also
257	equipped with audio visual outputs for use with televisions as the primary display, rather than an
258	external monitor or integrated display. These devices do not typically use a conventional
259	operating system, but often perform a variety of multimedia functions such as: DVD/CD playback,
260	digital picture viewing, and digital music playback.
261
262	H. Integrated Computer: A desktop system in which the computer and display function as a single
263	unit which receives its ac power through a single cable. Integrated computers come in one of two
264	possible forms: (1) a system where the display and computer are physically combined into a
265	single unit; or (2) a system packaged as a single system where the display is separate but is
266	connected to the main chassis by a dc power cord and both the computer and display are
267	powered from a single power supply. As a subset of desktop computers, integrated computers
268	are typically designed to provide similar functionality as desktop systems.
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269
Note: Some stakeholders expressed concern about how to qualify computers packaged with dedicated
monitors that connect to the main computer with a dc power cord. After researching this issue, EPA
modified the definition of integrated computers to include computers with displays powered by a dc
power cord off of the main unit's power supply. EPA believes that these products should fit the
definition of integrated computers even though they do not share a single housing because these
products share a single power supply and are therefore, technically equivalent to integrated computers
though in a slightly different form.
271
272	I. Notebook and Tablet Computers: A computer designed specifically for portability and to be
273	operated for extended periods of time without a direct connection to an ac power source.
274	Notebooks and tablets must utilize an integrated monitor and be capable of operation off an
275	integrated battery or other portable power source. In addition, most notebooks and tablets use an
276	external power supply and have an integrated keyboard and pointing device, though tablets use
277	touch sensitive screens. Notebook and tablet computers are typically designed to provide similar
278	functionality to desktops except within a portable device. For the purposes of this specification,
279	docking stations are considered accessories and therefore, the performance levels associated
280	with notebooks presented in Table 1 of section 3, below, do not include them.
281
282	J. Workstation: For the purposes of this specification, to qualify as a workstation, a computer must:
283	• Be marketed as a workstation;
284	• Have a mean time between failures (MTBF) of at least 15,000 hours based on Bellcore TR-
285	NWT-000332, issue 6, 12/97; and
286	• Support error-correcting code (ECC) and/or buffered memory.
287
288	In addition, a workstation must meet three of the following six optional characteristics:
289	• Have supplemental power support for high end graphics (i.e., PCI-E 6-pin 12V supplemental
290	power feed);
291	• System is wired for 4x or 8x PCI-E on motherboard in addition to graphics slot(s) and/or PCI-X
292	support;
293	• Does not support Uniform Memory Access (UMA) graphics;
294	• Includes 5 or more PCI, PCIe, PCI-X slots;
295	• Capable of multi-processor support for two or more processors (must support physically
296	separate processor packages/sockets, i.e., not met with support for a single multi core
297	processor); and/or
298	• Be qualified by at least 2 Independent Software Vendor (ISV) product certifications; these
299	certifications can be in process, but must be completed within 3 months of qualification.
300
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Notes: Definitions for the terms included in the workstation definition will be included in the Final Draft.
Some stakeholders felt that EPA's proposed workstation definition relied too heavily on the specific
configuration of the system, and that a simpler definition could be created that accurately differentiates a
workstation based on its inherent capabilities. EPA and industry have worked through several iterations
to develop this new definition which EPA believes meets these goals of accuracy and simplicity. This
definition was released to stakeholders in the 6/12/06 Computer Specification Progress Update, and the
Draft 3 version reflects changes based on comments received in response to that release. EPA feels
that this definition is close to the definition that will be used in the final specification. However, EPA
would like feedback on a few points raised just prior to the release of this draft. These points are as
follows: (1) Is 5 PCI/ PCIe/PCI-X slots adequate to differentiate workstations from desktops; (2) Would
substituting greater than four cores for symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) support further EPA's goal of
distinguishing workstations from desktops; and (3) EPA intends for all PCIe slots to be wired for high
bandwidth - are there compatibility issues associated with this line item, and would aggregated I/O
simplify this optional requirement? EPA will evaluate all feedback received in the development of the
Final Draft.
2)
Operational Modes
K. Idle State: For purposes of testing and qualifying computers under this specification, this is the
state in which the operating system and other software have completed loading, the machine is
not asleep, and activity is limited to those basic applications that the system starts by default.
L. Sleep Mode: A low power state that the computer is capable of entering automatically after a
period of inactivity or by manual selection. A computer with sleep capability can quickly "wake" in
response to network connections or user interface devices. For the purposes of this specification,
Sleep mode correlates to ACPI System Level S3 (suspend to RAM) state, where applicable.
M. Standby Level (Off Mode): The power consumption level in the lowest power mode which cannot
be switched off (influenced) by the user and that may persist for an indefinite time when the
appliance is connected to the main electricity supply and used in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions. For purposes of this specification, Standby correlates to ACPI
System Level S4 or S5 states, where applicable.
Networking and Power Management
N. Network Interface: The components (hardware and software) whose primary function is to make
the computer capable of communicating over one or more network technologies. For purposes of
testing to this specification, Network Interface refers to the IEEE 802.3 wired Ethernet interface.
O. Wake Event: A user, programmed, or external event or stimulus that causes the computer to
transition from Sleep or Standby to active mode of operation. Examples of wake events include,
but are not limited to: movement of the mouse, keyboard activity, or a button press on the chassis,
and in the case of external events, stimulus conveyed via a remote control, network, modem, etc.
P. Wake-On LAN (WOL): Functionality which allows a computer to wake from Sleep or Standby
when directed by a network request.
Qualifying Products: Computers must meet the computer definition as well as one of the
product type definitions provided in Section 1, above, to qualify as ENERGY STAR. Please note that
EPA will explore additional computer types, such as thin clients, for potential Tier 2
requirements. The following table provides a list of the types of computers that are (and are not)
eligible for ENERGY STAR.
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Products Covered by Version 4.0
Specification
Products Not Covered by Version 4.0
Specification
•	Desktop Computers
•	Game Consoles
•	Integrated Computer Systems
•	Notebook Computers/Tablet PCs
•	Desktop-Derived Servers
•	Workstations
•	Mid-Range and Large Servers (as
defined in Section 1F)
•	Thin Clients/Blade PCs
•	Handhelds and PDAs
340
341	3) Energy Efficiency and Power Management Criteria: Computers must meet the
342	requirements below to qualify as ENERGY STAR. Proposed effective dates for Tier 1 and Tier 2 are
343	covered in Section 5 of this specification.
344
345	A) Tier 1 Requirements - Effective July 1. 2007
346
347	(1) Power Supply Efficiency Requirements
348
349	Computers Using an Internal Power Supply: 80% minimum efficiency at 20%, 50%, and 100% of
350	rated output and Power Factor > 0.9 at 100% of rated output.
351
352	Computers Using an External Power Supply: Must be ENERGY STAR qualified or meet the no-
353	load and active mode efficiency levels provided in the ENERGY STAR Program Requirements for
354	Single Voltage Ac-Ac and Ac-Dc External Power Supplies. The ENERGY STAR specification and
355	qualified product list can be found at www.enenavstar.gov/powersupplies. Note: This performance
356	requirement also applies to multiple voltage output external power supplies as tested in accordance to
357	the Internal Power Supply test method referenced in Section 4, below.
358
359	(2) Operational Mode Efficiency Requirements
360
361	Desktop Differentiation:
362	For the purposes of determining Idle state levels, desktops and integrated computers must qualify
363	under Categories A, B, or C as defined below:
364
365	Category A: All desktop computers that do not meet the definition of either Category B or
366	Category C below are considered under Category A for ENERGY STAR qualification.
367
368	Category B: To qualify under Category B desktops must have:
369	• Multi-core processor(s) or greater than 1 discrete processor; and
370	• Minimum of 1 gigabyte of system memory.
371
372	Category C: To qualify under Category C desktops must have:
373	• Multi-core processor(s) or greater than 1 discrete processor; and
374	• A GPU with greater than 128 megabytes of dedicated, non-shared memory.
375
376	In addition to the requirements above, models qualifying under Category C must be configured
377	with a minimum of 2 of the following three characteristics:
378	• Minimum of 2 gigabytes of system memory;
379	• TV tuner and/or video capture capability with high definition support; and/or
380	• Minimum of 2 hard disk drives.
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381
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Note: After extensive discussions with stakeholders, the category system for desktops has been
revised to allow for greater differentiation between desktops for the purposes of Idle allowances. This
change was made to better reflect the range of capabilities of desktops currently in the marketplace.
However, if data provided in August is not robust enough for EPA to set levels for each of the three
categories, EPA may return to its initial two category proposal.
Notebook Differentiation: A couple of stakeholders submitted comments and data indicating the need
to differentiate notebooks based on performance, similar to what EPA did with desktops. This data
shows that some notebooks with advanced graphics capability use additional energy in Idle. EPA
continues to believe that notebooks with advanced graphics occupy a relatively small niche market.
EPA also believes that the advanced power management available for these products makes a flat line
Idle requirement achievable for all notebooks, an approach supported by EPA's initial data collection
efforts. EPA may consider a differentiation for notebooks based solely on discrete graphics if the data
provided in August supports this conclusion. Absent data from industry, EPA will continue to move
forward with a single Idle level for notebooks.
Workstation Levels:
Workstation levels will be determined using a simplified Typical Electricity Consumption (TEC)
approach to allow manufacturers energy trade offs between different operating modes, based on a
given weighting factor for each mode. The final level will be based on the TEC power level (Ptec)
which will be determined by the following formula:
Ptfc= A * P0ff + B * P;
Sleep
+ c*p
Idle
where, P0ff is the power measured in Off, PSieeP is the power measured in Sleep and in P|die is the
power measured in Idle (Note - A, B and C represent the weighting factor for each operational mode
and are TBD based on industry submitted data). This simplified TEC approach will be used in
combination with a scalable classifier to scale the power allowance according to the capability of the
system.
Workstation Scalable Classifier: TBD
Note: EPA has included the simplified TEC approach as discussed with stakeholders at the May
stakeholder meeting. This approach has been added to give manufacturers the ability to use
alternative approaches to energy savings in workstations, since workstations often use advanced
technology which warrants special consideration. Though EPA has not gone in this direction for
desktops and notebooks, EPA is willing to try this approach for workstations because of their unique
characteristics and relatively small market share.
EPA also agreed in concept to a scalable classifier for workstations, and has been working with
stakeholders to gather the necessary information and data to determine the effectiveness of such an
approach. EPA appreciates all data submitted to support this effort, but due to a low volume of data
and gaps in the data initially submitted, EPA has not been able to properly assess if a scalable
classifier based on percentage of maximum power is achievable. In email communications dated June
23 and 26, 2006, EPA provided feedback on what further data is needed to continue to pursue this
approach. In a revised timeline shared on June 23, 2006 EPA asked that all appropriate data be
submitted by July 10, 2006. After the data is collected, EPA will conduct a call on July 13, 2006 to
discuss the proposed approach followed by an announcement of the final approach on July 17, 2006.
Although EPA remains committed to these approaches for workstations, without an adequate data set
EPA will return to the Draft 2 approach.
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400
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408
Power Level Requirements:
The following tables indicate the required power allowances for the Tier 1 specification. Table 1 gives
the baseline requirements, while Table 2 gives additional power allowances for WOL and increased
system memory. For those products that meet the WOL and memory requirements, a model must
meet the energy level provided in Table 1 summed with the appropriate allowances from Table 2.
Note: Products whose Sleep levels meet the Standby power requirements do not need to have
a distinct Off mode, and may qualify for this specification using only Sleep mode.
Table 1: Tier 1 Energy Efficiency Requirements
Product Type
Tier 1 Requirements
Desktops, Integrated Computers and
Gaming Consoles
Standby (Off Mode): < TBD W
Sleep Mode: < TBD W
Idle State:
Category A: < TBD W
Category B: < TBD W
Category C: < TBD W
Desktop-Derived Servers
Standby (Off Mode): < TBD W
Sleep Mode: N/A
Idle State: < TBD W
Notebooks
Standby (Off Mode): < TBD W
Sleep Mode: < TBD W
Idle State: < TBD W
Workstations
TEC Power (PTEC): ^ TBD W
409
Table 2: Tier 1 Ca
abilit
Adders for Slee
and Standb
410
411
WOL
TBD watts for Sleep and/or Standby
System Memory
TBD watts for Sleep per memory module
greater than two
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Note: There was industry concern that the data used to inform the proposed performance levels reflected
in Draft 2 of the Computer Specification were not representative of new technologies and platforms that
would be in production when the specification is finalized. According to some manufacturers, these new
technologies could require additional energy budgets and would be more representative of products
available when the specification takes effect on July 1, 2007. In response to this concern, EPA is allowing
manufacturers additional time to test and report all models available when this specification is finalized.
Therefore, all levels in this Draft 3 specification are denoted as "TBD" and will be based on data submitted
by industry in August. EPA is taking this approach to ensure that the levels included in this specification
are representative of the products that will actually be available when the specification is finalized in
September, 2006. The attached final data sheet must be completed and returned to EPA no later than
August 4, 2006, to have data considered in this final analysis. It is important that the data points
submitted are reflective of both varied configurations of the same model as well as a range of
different models, so that EPA has a solid data set on which to base the specification lines. Absent
a sufficiently robust and varied data set, EPA will use data collected to date to set all levels.
Integrated Computers: Some stakeholders commented that integrated computers should be allowed
additional power over desktops. EPA believes there is no technical justification for why these systems
need additional power, most notably because they only have losses through a single power supply for low
power modes. Furthermore, the power used by the monitor is not accounted for under the Idle test
procedure since the monitor remains off during testing. Lastly, the data collected by EPA to date supports
the conclusion that additional power allowances are not needed for integrated computers. Thus, EPA
plans to keep these requirements unless data submitted in August justifies a higher power allowance.
Game Consoles: Game consoles will now be treated as desktops for the purposes of this specification.
To earn the ENERGY STAR mark, game consoles will now have to meet all the same definitions and
levels as desktops, which will include the necessity of a low power sleep requirement. This change was
made because EPA has received very little feedback on game console systems, and with the new
differentiation approach for desktops it is difficult to classify these products in a single category, as was
proposed in the Draft 2 specification. Game consoles may now qualify in any desktop category for which
they meet the definition. The Sleep mode requirement was added, because many of these systems use a
substantial amount of energy in Idle and are often left on and unused for long periods of time. EPA
believes there is large savings potential for game consoles automatically entering low power modes and
hopes that this requirement will encourage manufacturers to include low power modes in future designs.
Desktop-Derived Servers: EPA received feedback from a number of stakeholders and has concluded
that the definition for desktop-derived servers is sufficient and therefore, plans to provide these products
with levels separate from desktops in the final specification. EPA needs to receive data by the August 4th
deadline that supports a separate category with separate levels for these products. Absent a robust data
set, EPA will fold these systems back in with desktops and the definition will be removed.
413
414	Qualifying Computers With or Without WOL Enabled:
415	The following requirements should be followed when determining whether models should be qualified
416	with or without WOL:
417
418	Standby: Computers should be tested and reported as shipped for Standby. Models which will be
419	shipped with WOL enabled should be tested with WOL enabled and will qualify using the extra
420	allowance for Standby found in Table 2.
421
422	Sleep: Computers should be tested and reported as shipped for Sleep. Models sold through
423	enterprise channels, as defined in the Tier 1 Power Management Requirements (Section 3.A.3),
424	shall be tested, qualified, and shipped WOL enabled. Products going directly to consumers
425	through normal retail channels may be tested, qualified, and shipped with WOL disabled. Those
426	models sold both through enterprise channels and directly to consumers must test and meet both
427	the levels with and without WOL.
428
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429	(3) Power Management Requirements
430
431	Shipment Requirement:
432	Products must be shipped with the display's Sleep mode set to activate within 15 minutes of user
433	inactivity. Products must be shipped with the computer's Sleep mode set to activate within 30 minutes
434	of user inactivity. Products may have more than one low power mode but these proposed criteria
435	address Sleep mode as defined in this specification. Computers shall reduce the speed of any active
436	Ethernet network links to the lowest speed supported by both ends of the link when transitioning to
437	Sleep or Standby.
438
439	All computers, regardless of distribution channel, shall have the ability to enable and disable WOL for
440	Sleep mode. Systems shipped through enterprise channels must have Wake On LAN (WOL) enabled
441	from the Sleep mode. For the purpose of this specification, "enterprise channels" are defined as sales
442	channels normally used by large and medium-sized business, government organizations, and
443	educational institutions, with the intent of identifying machines that will be used in managed client/
444	server environments. Wth WOL enabled, any directed packet filters shall be enabled and set to an
445	industry standard default configuration.
446
447	All machines shipped to enterprise customers shall be capable of both remote and scheduled wake
448	events from Sleep mode and manufacturers shall ensure that these settings, where the manufacturer
449	has control (i.e., configured through hardware settings rather than software settings), can be managed
450	centrally with tools provided by the manufacturer.
451
452	User Education Requirement:
453	In order to ensure that purchasers/users are properly educated on the benefits of power management,
454	the manufacturer will include with each computer, one of the following:
455
456	• Information on ENERGY STAR and the benefits of power management in either a hard copy or
457	electronic copy of the user manual. This information should be near the front of the user guide; or
458	• A package or box insert on ENERGY STAR and the benefits of power management.
459
460	Either option must include the following information:
461
462	• Notice that the computer has been shipped enabled for power management and what the time
463	settings are;
464	• How to properly wake the computer from Sleep mode;
465	• Energy saving benefits;
466	• Money saving benefits;
467	• Environmental benefits
468	• Some information on ENERGY STAR and a link to www.enerqvstar.gov; and
469	• ENERGY STAR logo (used in accordance with "The ENERGY STAR Identity Guidelines"
470	available at www.enerqvstar.qov/loqos).
471
472	In addition, the manufacturer will have similar information with a link to
473	www.enerqvstar.gov/powermanaqement on the company Web site, readily accessible from computer
474	product pages, product specifications, and related content pages.
475
476	At the manufacturer's request, EPA will supply suggested facts and figures related to the above
477	criteria, template elements, or a complete template suitable for use in user guides or box inserts.
478
479	EPA's goal is to achieve a 40% enabling rate nationally by 2010; 60% by 2012; and > 80% by 2014.
480	EPA recognizes the importance of documenting enabling rates and encourages industry to develop a
481	collective strategy for securing and funding this research, and sharing findings with EPA and the
482	public.
483
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484
485	(B) Tier 2 Requirements - Effective January 1. 2009
486
487	(1a) Tier 2 Capability Benchmark: All computers will be required to meet the following minimum
488	performance per unit energy metric.
489
490	Performance Benchmarking Software and Associated Levels: TBD
491	-OR-
492
493	(1 b) Provisional Tier 2 Idle State Requirements: If an energy efficiency performance or capability
494	benchmark, and associated performance levels, are not ready to go into effect by January 1, 2009, a
495	provisional Tier 2 specification will automatically go into effect and will remain in effect until such a
496	benchmark is established. This provisional Tier 2 will include revised Idle state levels for all computer
497	types (those included in Tier 1 as well as others as appropriate [e.g., thin clients]) with the intention of
498	capturing the top 25% performers in energy efficiency.
499
500	Additional topics, including the following, will also be re-examined under a provisional Tier 2:
501
502	• Idle levels for notebooks and integrated computers that incorporate the energy use of the displays;
503
504	• Quantitative distinctions between desktop categories (e.g., Mb of video memory, number of
505	processor cores, Mb of system memory) to make sure these distinctions remain current;
506
507	• Sleep levels for desktop-derived servers; and
508
509	• Allowances for Out-Of-Bound (OOB) client management tools, such as service processors in
510	Sleep and Standby, which may aid in the adoption of computer power management.
511
512	In the case of the implementation of a provisional Tier 2, EPA will re-examine these new topics and
513	finalize new levels at least six months prior to the effective date for Tier 2.
514
515	(2) Power Management Requirements: In addition to the requirements provided under Tier 1,
516	above, ENERGY STAR qualified computers must retain full network connectivity while in Sleep mode,
517	according to a platform-independent industry standard. All computers shall reduce their network link
518	speeds during times of low data traffic levels in accordance with any industry standards that provides
519	for quick transitions among link rates.
520
521	C) Voluntary Requirements
522
523	User Interface: Although not mandatory, manufacturers are strongly recommended to design
524	products in accordance with the Power Control User Interface Standard — IEEE 1621 (formally known
525	as "Standard for User Interface Elements in Power Control of Electronic Devices Employed in
526	Office/Consumer Environments"). Compliance with IEEE 1621 will make power controls more
527	consistent and intuitive across all electronic devices. For more information on the standard see
528	http://eetd.LBL.gov/Controls.
529
530
531	4) Test Procedures: Manufacturers are required to perform tests and self-certify those models that
532	meet the ENERGY STAR guidelines.
533
534	• In performing these tests, partner agrees to use the test procedures provided in Table 3, below.
535
536	• The test results must be reported to EPA using the Computer Version 4.0 Qualifying Product
537	Information (QPI) Form.
538
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539	Models Capable of Operating at Multiple Voltage/Frequency Combinations: Manufacturers shall
540	test their products based on the market(s) in which the models will be sold and promoted as ENERGY
541	STAR qualified. For products that are sold as ENERGY STAR in multiple international markets and,
542	therefore, rated at multiple input voltages, the manufacturer must test at and report the required power
543	consumption or efficiency values at all relevant voltage/frequency combinations. For example, a
544	manufacturer that is shipping the same model to the United States and Europe must measure, meet
545	the specification, and report test values at both 115 Volts/60 Hz and 230 Volts/50 Hz in order to qualify
546	the model as ENERGY STAR in both markets. If a model qualifies as ENERGY STAR at only one
547	voltage/frequency combination (e.g., 115 Volts/60 Hz), then it may only be qualified and promoted as
548	ENERGY STAR in those regions that support the tested voltage/frequency combination (e.g., North
549	America and Taiwan).
550
	Table 3: Test Procedures for Measuring Operational Modes	
Specification T . * , r.
„ . Test Protocol Source
Requirement
Standby (Off Mode),
Sleep Mode, Idle
State
ENERGY STAR Computer
Test Method (Version 4.0)
Appendix A
Power Supply
Efficiency
IPS: Internal Power Supply
Efficiency Protocol
EPS: ENERGY STAR Test
Method for External Power
Supplies
IPS: www.efficientDowersuDDlies.ora
EPS: www.eneravstar.aov/DowersuDDlies
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559
560
561
562
563
564
565
566
567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575
576
Qualifying Families of Products
Models that are unchanged or that differ only in finish from those sold in a previous year may remain
qualified without the submission of new test data assuming the specification remains unchanged. If a
product model is offered in the market in multiple configurations or styles, as a product "family" or
series, the partner may report and qualify the product under a single model number, as long as all of
the models within that family or series meet either of the following requirements:
•	Computers that are built on the same platform and are identical in every respect except for
housing and color may be qualified through submission of test data for a single, representative
model.
•	If a product model is offered in the market in multiple configurations, the partner may report and
qualify the product under a single model number that represents the highest power configuration
available in the family, rather than reporting each and every individual model in the family. In this
case, the highest configuration would consist of: the highest power processor, the maximum
memory configuration, the most advanced GPU, etc. For desktop systems which meet the
definition for multiple desktop categories (as defined in section 3.A.2) depending on the specific
configuration, manufacturers will have to submit the highest power configuration for each category
under which they would like the system to qualify. For example, a system that could be
configured either as a Category A or a Category B desktop would require a submittal of the
highest power configuration for both categories in order to qualify as ENERGY STAR. If a product
could be configured to meet all three categories, it would then have to submit data for the highest
power configuration in all categories.
When submitting model families, manufacturers must confirm that every tested configuration meets
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577	the specification, but also will be held accountable for any efficiency claims made about all other
578	models in the family, including those not tested or for which data was not reported.
579
580
581
582
583
584
585
586
587
588
589
590
591
592
593
594
595
596
597
598
599
600
601
602
603
604
605
606
607
608
609
610
611
Note: EPA has included language that explains how models with multiple configurations may qualify for
ENERGY STAR. The proposed approach is intended to reduce manufacturer reporting while ensuring
all configurations of a given model meet the specification. Similarly, EPA is also asking manufacturers
qualifying Imaging Products to submit the highest power configuration as well in response to partners'
requests. For desktops, to ensure that products meet the specification under all configurations, EPA
proposes that manufacturers submit data for the highest configuration for each category (e.g., A, B,
and/or C) in which they want to qualify in the desktop space. EPA intends to collaborate with partners
on revising the Online Product Submittal (OPS) tool to accommodate revisions to the computer
specification in a way that is acceptable to both partners and EPA.
5)	Effective Date: The date that manufacturers may begin to qualify products as ENERGY STAR,
under this Version 4.0 specification, will be defined as the effective date of the agreement. Any
previously executed agreement on the subject of ENERGY STAR qualified computers shall be
terminated effective June 30, 2007.
1.	Qualifying Products Under Tier 1 of the Version 4.0 Specification: The first phase of this
specification will commence on July 1, 2007. All products, including models originally qualified
under Version 3.0, with a date of manufacture on or after July 1, 2007, must meet the new
(Version 4.0) requirements in order to qualify for ENERGY STAR. The date of manufacture is
specific to each unit and is the date (e.g., month and year) of which a unit is considered to be
completely assembled.
2.	Qualifying Products Under Tier 2 of the Version 4.0 Specification: The second phase of this
specification, Tier 2, will commence on January 1, 2009. All products, including models originally
qualified under Tier 1, with a date of manufacture on or after January 1, 2009, must meet the
Tier 2 requirements in order to qualify for ENERGY STAR.
3.	Elimination of Grandfathering: EPA will not allow grandfathering under this Version 4.0 ENERGY
STAR specification. ENERGY STAR qualification under previous versions is not
automatically granted for the life of the product model. Therefore, any product sold,
marketed, or identified by the manufacturing partner as ENERGY STAR must meet the current
specification in effect at the time of manufacture of the product.
6)	Future Specification Revisions: EPA reserves the right to revise the specification should
technological and/or market changes affect its usefulness to consumers or industry or its impact on
the environment. In keeping with current policy, revisions to the specification will be discussed with
stakeholders. In the event of a specification revision, please note that ENERGY STAR qualification is
not automatically granted for the life of a product model. To qualify as ENERGY STAR, a product
model must meet the ENERGY STAR specification in effect on the model's date of manufacture.
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612	APPENDIX A
613	ENERGY STAR Test Procedure for Determining the
614	Power Use of Computers in Standby, Sleep, and Idle
615
616	The following protocol should be followed when measuring power consumption levels of computers for
617	compliance with the Standby, Sleep, and Idle levels provided in the ENERGY STAR Version 4.0
618	Computer Specification. Partners must measure a representative sample of the configuration as shipped
619	to the customer. However, the Partner does not need to consider power consumption changes that may
620	result from component additions made by the computer user after sale of product. This procedure is
621	intended to be followed in order and the mode being tested is labeled where appropriate.
622
623	I. Definitions
624
625	Unless otherwise specified, all terms used in this document are consistent with the definitions
626	contained in the Version 4.0 ENERGY STAR Eligibility Criteria for Computers.
627
628	UUT
629	UUT is an acronym for "unit under test," which in this case refers to the computer being tested.
630
631	UPS
632	UPS is an acronym for "Uninterruptible Power System," which refers to a combination of converters,
633	switches and energy storage means, for example batteries, constituting a power system for
634	maintaining continuity of load power in case of input power failure.
635
636
637	II. Testing Requirements
638
639	Approved Meter
640	Approved meters will include the following attributes1:
641
642	• Power resolution of 1 mW or better;
643	• An available current crest factor of 3 or more at its rated range value; and
644	• Lower bound on the current range of 10mA or less.
645
646	EPA also suggests the following attributes in addition to those above:
647
648	• Frequency response of at least 3 kHz; and
649	• Calibration with a standard that is traceable to the U.S. National Institute of Standards and
650	Technology (NIST).
651
652	It is also desirable for measurement instruments to be able to average power accurately over any user
653	selected time interval (this is usually done with an internal math's calculation dividing accumulated
654	energy by time within the meter, which is the most accurate approach). As an alternative, the
655	measurement instrument would have to be capable of integrating energy over any user selected time
656	interval with an energy resolution of less than or equal to 0.1 mWh and integrating time displayed with
657	a resolution of 1 second or less.
658
659	Accuracy
660	Measurements of power of 0.5 W or greater shall be made with an uncertainty of less than or equal to
661	2% at the 95% confidence level. Measurements of power of less than 0.5 W shall be made with an
662	uncertainty of less than or equal to 0.01 W at the 95% confidence level. The power measurement
663	instrument shall have a resolution of:
1 Characteristics of approved meters taken from IEC 62301 Ed 1.0: Measurement of Standby Power
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664
665	• 0.01 W or better for power measurements of 10 W or less;
666	• 0.1 Wor better for power measurements of greater than 10 W up to 100 W; and
667	• 1 W or better for power measurements of greater than 100 W.
668
669	All power figures should be in watts and rounded to the second decimal place. For loads greater than
670	or equal to 10 W, three significant figures shall be reported.
671
672	Test Conditions
673	• Line Impedance: < 0.25 ohm
674	• Total Harmonic Distortion: < 5%
675	• Ambiant Temperature: 25 degrees C +/- 3 degrees C
676	• For products to be qualified in markets using 100V / 120V input:
677	- Input AC Voltage: 115 VAC RMS +/- 5 V RMS
678	- Input AC Frequency: 60 Hz +/- 3 Hz
679	• For products to be qualified in markets using 230 V input:
680	- Input AC Voltage: 230 VAC RMS +/- 5V RMS
681	- Input AC Frequency: 50 Hz +/- 3 Hz
682
683	Test Configuration
684	Power consumption of a computer shall be measured and tested from an ac source to the UUT.
685
686	The UUT must be connected to an Ethernet network switch capable of the UUT's highest and lowest
687	network speeds. The network connection must be live during all tests.
688
Note: Based on stakeholder comments, the Ethernet network switch is now specified to be capable of
the highest and lowest network speed of the UUT. This will allow for increased repeatability as all
systems will be able to drop to the lowest link speed during the tests.
689				
690
691	III. Test Procedure
692	Measurement of ac power consumption of a computer should be conducted as follows:
693
694	UUT Preparation
695	1. Record the manufacturer and model name of the UUT.
696	2. Ensure that the UUT is connected to a live Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) network switch as specified in
697	Section II., "Test Configuration," above, and that the connection is live. The computer must
698	maintain this live connection to the switch for the duration of testing, disregarding brief lapses
699	when transitioning between link speeds.
700	3. Connect an approved meter capable of measuring true power to an ac line voltage source set to
701	the appropriate voltage/frequency combination for the test.
702	4. Plug the UUT into the measurement power outlet on the meter. No power strips or UPS units
703	should be connected between the meter and the UUT. For a valid test to take place the meter
704	should remain in place until all Standby, Sleep, and Idle power data is recorded.
705	5. Record the ac voltage.
706	6. Boot computer and wait until the operating system has fully loaded.
707	7. Record basic information about the computer's configuration - computer type, operating system
708	name and version, processor type and speed, and total and available physical memory, etc.2
709	8. Record basic information about the video card - video card name, resolution, amount of onboard
710	memory, and bits per pixel.3
2 On Windows-based machines, much of this can be found by selecting the following window: Start / Programs /
Accessories / System Tools / System Information.
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711	9. Ensure that the UUT is configured as shipped including all accessories, power management
712	settings, WOL enabling and software shipped by default. UUT should also be configured using
713	the following requirements for all tests:
714	a. Desktop systems (including workstations and desktop-derived servers) shipped without
715	accessories should be configured with a standard mouse, keyboard and external monitor.
716	b. Notebooks and tablets should include all accessories shipped with the system, and need
717	not include a separate keyboard or mouse when equipped with an integrated pointing
718	device or digitizer.
719	c. Notebooks and tablets should have the batteries removed for all tests.
720	d. Power to wireless radios should remain configured as shipped. Systems shipped with
721	wireless radios enabled should ensure that the adapters remain enabled, but the system
722	should not be connected to an active wireless link for testing. This requirement applies to
723	wireless network adapters (e.g., 802.11) or device to device wireless protocols.
724	10. For computers with integrated monitors (notebooks, tablets and integrated systems), use the
725	power management settings to set the monitor to power down after 1 minute (adjust no other
726	power management settings).
727	11. Shut down the computer.
728
745
746
747
748
Note: Some stakeholders commented that the test procedure should explicitly state that wireless
adapters should be turned off for all tests. EPA believes it is important to capture the power
consumption of these devices, but has specified that these wireless devices should not be actively
connected to a network or device during testing.
729
730
731	Standby (Off Mode) Testing
732	12. With the UUT shut down and in Standby, set the meter to begin accumulating true power values at
733	an interval of 1 reading per second. Accumulate power values for 5 additional minutes and record
734	the average (arithmetic mean) value observed during that 5 minute period.4
735
736	Idle Mode Testing
737	13. Switch on the computer and begin recording elapsed time, starting either when the computer is
738	initially switched on, or after completing any log in activity necessary to fully boot the system.
739	Once logged in with the operating system fully loaded and ready, close any open windows so that
740	the standard operational desktop screen or equivalent ready screen is displayed. Exactly 10
741	minutes after the initial boot or log in, set the meter to begin accumulating true power values at an
742	interval of 1 reading per second. Accumulate power values for 5 additional minutes and record
743	the average (arithmetic mean) value observed during that 5 minute period.
744
Note: Based on stakeholder comment, the Idle test procedure has been modified to begin Idle
measurements from either the initial switching on of the UUT or from the completion of any necessary
log in procedures. This change was made to increase repeatability for computers with required log in.
To minimize the impact of the difference between these two start points, and to ensure all computers
have fully loaded and settled into the Idle state, measurement will now begin after a 10 minute wait
interval. The language has also been clarified to indicate more clearly that all windows must be closed
after the user has logged in, to display the standard desktop screen or ready screen.
3	On Windows-based machines, this can be found by selecting the following window: Start / Programs /Accessories /
System Tools / Components / Display.
4	Laboratory-grade, full-function meters can integrate values over time and report the average value automatically.
Other meters would require the user to capture a series of changing values every 5 seconds for a five minute period
and then compute the average manually.
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749	Sleep Mode Testing
750	14. After completing the Idle measurements, place the computer in Sleep mode. Reset the meter (if
751	necessary) and begin accumulating true power values at an interval of 1 reading per second.
752	Accumulate power values for 5 additional minutes and record the average (arithmetic mean) value
753	observed during that 5 minute period.
754	15. If testing both WOL enabled and WOL disabled for Sleep, wake the computer and change the
755	WOL from Sleep setting through the operating system settings or by other means. Place the
756	computer back in Sleep mode and repeat step 14, recording Standby power for this alternate
757	configuration.
758
759	Reporting Test Results
760	16. The test results must be reported to EPA using the Online Product Submittal (OPS) Tool, taking
761	care to ensure that all required information has been included.
762
763	IV. Continuing Verification
764
765	This testing procedure describes the method by which a single unit may be tested for compliance. An
766	ongoing testing process is highly recommended to ensure that products from different production runs
767	are in compliance with ENERGY STAR.
768
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