There are four computer sleep modes, S1 to S4.

• S1 = Older computers support this mode
• S2 = Cpu is powered off. Most computer do not support this mode.
• S3 = "Stand by" in windows. Read about standby further down this page.
• S4 = "Hibernation" in windows. Read about hibernation further down this page.

Standby mode keeps all information in memory (RAM) and then goes into a low power consuming state. Monitor and harddisks are turned off. Going from standby mode to "work" mode is quickly, quicker than hibernate mode. Perfect for small pauses, like 0-3 hours. A disadvantage is if power is lost, all saved information in memory is lost. In standby mode a pc consumes about 5 watts each.

Standby mode

1. Press start button
2. Click "Turn off computer"

   

3. Click standby

How to create a desktop icon for this action

Hibernate mode writes all data in memory to your harddrive and then shuts almost everything off. Going to hibernation mode takes a bit longer than standby mode since it saves all information on harddrive. Hibernate mode is a better choice for the weekend or the night. A advantage is if power is lost, all saved information in harddrive are not lost. In hibernate mode a pc and a montior consumes about 5 watts each.

Hibernate mode

1. Press start button
2. Click "Turn off computer"

   

3. Press and hold shift

   

4. Click Hibernate

How to create a desktop icon for this action

Power saving tips

1. Configure windows xp to automatically go into Standby/Hibernate mode after 15 minutes of inactivity.
2. Use a laptop computer, consumes a lot less energy than a desktop pc
3. Use a power strip
4. Use a lcd monitor instead of a crt monitor.

How to enable hibernate mode

1. Right click anywhere on desktop
2. Click properties
3. Click "screensaver" tab
4. Click "power" button
5. Click "hibernate" tab
6. Enable hibernation
7. Click OK!

How to hibernate pc with desktop power button

1. Right click anywhere on desktop background
2. Click properties
3. Go to "screen saver" tab.
4. Click "power" button
5. Go to "Advanced" tab.
6. Select hibernate when i press the power button on my computer. (See picture below)
7. Click OK!