IBM Japan has unveiled a new ThinkPad notebook computer that can
automatically shift its power source from an AC adapter to a stored
battery.
The ThinkPad R31 includes a peak shift control program that allows
electricity to be used evenly throughout on-peak and off-peak
times. With the ThinkPad R31, users can set a time for the computer
to switch its power source to an internal battery, which has been
recharged during off-peak hours, said Yuko Takeuchi, a spokeswoman
for IBM Japan.
The Think Pad R31 is the first result of a joint development
project between IBM Japan, Kansai Electric Power (KEPCO), Tokyo
Electric Power (TEPCO), Sanyo and Matsushita.
The purpose of the project was to decrease the volume of
electricity used for PCs in offices at peak time.
During the summer in Japan, many offices switch on air conditioners
in the afternoon, causing a dramatic increase in electricity
consumption. Power companies have been looking for ways to avoid
these peaks.
From July to September last year, IBM Japan, KEPCO, and TEPCO
conducted a trial using the peak shift control program on their
PCs. The trial showed that by charging the PC battery at night when
demand is low, and using that stored power during the day,
companies were able to decrease carbon dioxide production by up to
16%.
IBM Japan calculated that if the 1,200 notebook PCs in its Tokyo
headquarters are equipped with the peak shift-control program, it
could save ¥20,000 (£105) a year, the statement said.
Sanyo and Matsushita have been researching the effects on a battery
of being repeatedly discharged and recharged, and will keep working
on a longer-lasting battery, the statement said. Currently, the
ThinkPad R31 can be used for 2.3 hours by a recharged battery. Once
the battery runs out it automatically starts recharging again,
Takeuchi said.
Out of the 12 new ThinkPad R31 models, the C5J and 48J include the
peak-shift-control program. Both include a Celeron 1.06GHz
processor, 128Mbytes of SDRAM, a 20Gbyte hard drive, and are
equipped with an Ethernet interface.
The peak shift control program is currently only available in
Japan.