Newbie, I just started running a couple of BOINC projects on an older Dell Core Duo desktop (circa 2007).

I wonder if it would not be better to save the electricity that machine runs on for someone else with a more efficient and faster machine?

Newbie, I just started running a couple of BOINC projects on an older Dell Core Duo desktop (circa 2007).

Hello poodlesrule, welcome.

I wonder if it would not be better to save the electricity that machine runs on for someone else with a more efficient and faster machine?

Well this is a question you must decide - boinc is not just raw computing - there is a lot of learning and fun to be had in getting an old desktop running efficiently, there are many interesting projects and so you learn about the science in them as well.

It's not only the fastest and most efficient computers, there is a lot of old iron (some very old), crunching away really well and making a difference.

However if you do want to run 7x24 for a long time electricity costs do become the major cost over a life time (assuming you pay for electricity at average rates). I am a big fan of high efficiency PSUs, they will pay for themselves in electricity and cooling costs. If you are thinking of replacing the old computer with a new one, then keep that in mind.

good luck.

Older and slower computers are absolutely usable, crunch on!

One of the nice things about BOINC, is that it takes away the requirement to continually update hardware to move your project forward. Replacing hardware just to have latest and greatest is rather wasteful.

As per the energy requirements, that's your contribution--if it's of a major concern to you, you don't have to run 24/7. Even contributions from your computer when you are using it/have it on would be appreciated.

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My Detailed BOINC Stats

Interesting answers.

I may get a "Kill-O-Watt" kind of real-time meter, about twenty dollars in U.S big box stores, and see what burns what - I also have an older machine, similar vintage, boinc'ing as well.

Local power companies used to lend such meters to libraries for patrons to borrow. I need to check if still active.

The cost of running old is to me prohibitive. I have a retired Shuttle that eats 200 watts/hr for 1 core. The annual cost of electricity over here would exceed that of buying a new 8 threaded HT computer and then some, so if you commit to donating an X amount of money equivalent, look at the multi-year cost before deciding to use the device for DC volunteering.

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Coelum Non Animum Mutant, Qui Trans Mare Currunt

The short rule one can use for old computers could be, if it has to be on because you are using it, mail/web browsing etc, crunch while using, but then power down. In such cases, choose projects that have shortish tasks.

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Coelum Non Animum Mutant, Qui Trans Mare Currunt

(... that have shortish tasks.)

And do checkpoints.