IBM’s POWER7 Microprocessor Systems Qualify for ENERGY STAR Status

IBM’s four-processor systems, Power 755 and Power 750 Express, have become the first systems to meet ENERGY STAR specifications. ENERGY STAR, a U.S.-endorsed program, allows individuals and businesses to safeguard their environment via efficient energy usage.

In order to receive ENERGY STAR status, a system must meet definite standards for energy efficiency and power supply. The systems should offer users with data on processor utilization, power use and thermal output at periodic intervals. Apart from this, the system manufacturer should also report power and performance details to the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Power 755 and Power 750 Express systems from IBM are equipped with the modern POWER7 processor. These processor systems are cost-efficient, energy-efficient and can deliver more performance output compared to POWER6 processor systems. The Power 755 and Power 750 Express processor systems, with ultimate power management features, allow customers to maximize their workload and reduce their data center space and energy usage.

Power 7 processor systems are equipped with smart energy features that help optimize performance and energy consumption, and also support workload needs. A few features of microprocessors include the following: the Power Saver Mode reduces processor frequency to minimize energy consumption, or adjusts frequency and voltage to optimize system and processor’s energy consumption; the Processor Core Nap is a low-power mode, which halts the processor core function by locking the core’s circuits during workload absence; the Processor Folding function places unwanted processors in Nap Mode, and optimizes the number of processors to the present workload; the IBM POWER7 microprocessor systems automatically switch off PCI adaptor slots that remain vacant or unused.

The ENERGY STAR program recognizes those products that are energy-efficient and reduce environmental concerns. IBM develops storage and server systems that meet ENERGY STAR requirements, and offers equipment operating data and technical expertise to aid in criteria development.

According to Andrew Fanara, Program Manager, U.S. EPA Energy Star, EPA recognizes IBM’s commitment to develop energy-efficient products that deliver environmental benefits across the data center ecosystem.

Source: http://www.ibm.com