IDF: Intel tackles Linux power consumption

Intel's Less Watts programme will provide tips on decreasing the power usage for Linux systems

Intel has unveiled an initiative that aims to cut the power consumption of Linux servers.

The Less Watts programme will provide tips on decreasing the power usage for Linux systems, and will coordinate with developers working on future kernel enhancements to lower Linux power consumption.

Intel unveiled the project at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco on 20 September.

The project brings several existing projects under a single umbrella, such as the 'tickless idle' technology that allows Linux to utilise power technologies built into hardware.

Another component, Intel's PowerTOP, allows laptop users to monitor the power consumption of their Linux system. It lets them pinpoint processes that prevent the processor from going into a more energy efficient mode.

Less Watts is also supported by Novell, Oracle and Red Hat.

The Linux Foundation, which counts Intel as a backer, launched its Green Linux initiative earlier this year which has similar goals to LessWatts.

Intel and the Linux Foundation were unable to provide background information on how the two programmes will function in time for this story's publication.