Computers use a lot of power, especially if they’re on all the time. While several power saving methods can help shut down the computer or put it to sleep while not in use, I know my computer still draws a lot of energy. 
But I haven’t found many ways of making it more energy efficient without turning it on and off all the time. However, it looks like the Eco Mouse will make it a bit easier to save some computer power.
The Eco Mouse works just like a standard mouse, but it features the eco button. With just a touch, this eco button puts the computer into standby mode. This mode uses as little energy as possible, although your computer is still technically on. If you know you’re going to be away from your computer for more than a few minutes, hit the button and save some energy. Then press it again to active the computer.
In addition to the eco button, the Eco Mouse also features software that will tell you how much energy you’ve saved by using the device. This amount is somewhat of an estimate since not all computers use the same amount of power, but it is interesting to see.
While I think something like this is a good idea, I’m afraid I’d always be accidentally hitting the eco button and sending my computer into standby mode. The button is located right below the scroll wheel, so it’s pretty easy to press by accident. You can, however, purchase a separate Eco Button that does the same thing without being attached to your mouse. The mouse itself costs $29, while the Eco Button is available for $28.
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on Jun 18th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
I agree, I would probably hit it too… but I honestly love the idea. I know what I find annoying about putting my computer into standby mode is when it takes a while to go into standby or to come out of standby. I wonder if the button will make this process quicker.