How to get Linux to shutoff or suspend a monitor for power saving

Using the X.org server and the DPMS option you have your computer monitor power save using standby, suspend, and off.


 * You just edit your /etc/X11/xorg.conf file and add the following to the "ServerLayout" section

Option "StandbyTime" "4" Option "SuspendTime" "4" Option "OffTime" "5"


 * This will suspend the monitor after 4 minuets then after one more minute it will be turned off completely. Note that most monitors do not understand the difference between Suspend and Standby. It is important to turn it off all the time to save power.


 * You also need to assure about a few more things. You must add in the "Monitor" section the line

Option "DPMS"

If you have the buggy nvidia driver, add this to the "Monitor" section:

Option "DPMS" "true"

How much power you save
Here is an average consumption: '''That is for old CRT monitors! '''(DPMS monitor specification)
 * On: 120 Watts
 * Standby: 110 Watts
 * Suspend: 15 Watts
 * Off: 5 Watts

External howtos

 * external

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