Comparison of Two ICT Solutions DESKTOP PC VERSUS THIN CLIENT COMPUTING 1

Overview Introduction Methods of Analysis Important Findings of Paper Causes for the Differences Between the Two Scenarios Questions 2

Introduction Comparison of Two ICT Solutions: Desktop PC versus Thin client computing Written by Daniel Maga, Markus Hiebel and Christian Knermann - Published September 2012 Compares traditional desktop PC computing model to thin client model: ― Environmental Perspective ― Highlights and explains the differences 3

Introduction Desktop PCThin Client Computing Standalone device Network connection not essential Server performs all computational functions Needs a network connection Vs. 4

Methods of Analysis 2 methods used to measure environmental impacts of ICT products throughout their lifecycle 1.Methodology for Ecodesign of Energy-related products (MEErp) – emissions & Global Warming Potential (GWP) 2.Material Input Per Service (MIPS) – Materials used in lifecycle (Material, water & air) 5

Methods of Analysis Material Extraction & Production ManufacturingDistributionUse End of Life 6

1.Important Findings Negative Impact to the environment caused by Desktop PC model is significantly greater than Thin Client computing 7

1.Important Findings 8 Thin Client Savings Material 1.8 tonnes Water 21 tonnes Air 0.2 tonnes

2.Important Finding The use stage represents the biggest impact to the environment – use of electricity 9

3.Important Finding 10 Regardless of model still potential for further improvements Further Improvements Eco-Design initiatives Improvements in virtualisation, cloud computing benefits for both models Help to reduce the demand for energy and resources e.g. Coating on rear panel of thin client results in high emissions.

Causes for the Differences Between the Two Scenarios Thin Client vs. Desktop PC 38 kg CO2 e vs. 128 kg CO2 e 400 kg vs kg of materials 2.7kg vs.12.7 kg Materials Extraction & Production Stage Causes Less electronics used in thin clients - surface-mounted devices, integrated circuits, and copper–nickel alloys No hard drive, minimal RAM, less I/O ports, CD drive in thin client 11

Causes for the Differences Between the Two Scenarios Thin Client vs. Desktop PC 110 kg vs. 420 kg CO2 e kWh vs kWh Use Stage Causes Server performs all computation of thin client – energy savings multiplied by no. of client. Workplace attitude – 30% of systems not turned off at night or never turned off 12

Questions