Technology Initiatives

Adelphi’s Office of Information Technology has identified several best practices that support the University’s mission to “go green” including:

• Remote Shut-Down of Lab Computers
• Energy-Efficient Monitors
• Reduction of Paper Use
• Conversion to Energy-Efficient Servers
• Transition to Virtualization Software
• Consolidation of Storage
• Installation of Energy-Saving Equipment
• Energy-Efficient Transportation

Remote Shut-Down of Lab Computers

Instead of leaving computers in the labs on or in sleep mode during the night, Adelphi IT uses Centurion Technologies software to shut down more than 750 of Adelphi’s computers in Garden City and the Manhattan Center. Computers in classroom labs are scheduled to shut down one hour after the last class ends. Computers in the libraries, University Center Underground Café, and other campus common areas are shut down when those facilities close for the night. Those computers are controlled remotely by software, and the shut-down schedules are easily edited when class or facility schedules change.

Energy-Efficient Monitors

Throughout campus offices and labs, as older CRT monitors have met retirement age they have been replaced with energy-efficient flat panel LCD screens. LCD monitors use one-half to two-thirds of the energy, plus they are easier on your eyes.

Reduction of Paper Use

The Printer Management Program has been very successful in curbing the rampant overuse of printing resources; gone are the abandoned mounds of waste paper that piled up in computer labs. Working closely with the Student Government Association, a program was implemented that allots students 500 free pages per semester; students can add money into their accounts as needed for additional resources. This system encourages students to think before they print. Further improvements to this system are currently being pursued.

Conversion to Energy-Efficient Servers

The University had 60 standalone servers that consumed a great deal of electricity and taxed cooling resources. By converting to IBM blade servers, the University will have realized significant energy savings.

Transition to Virtualization Software

The phased-in transition to VMware’s ESX virtualization software will continue to improve system utilization and reduce overhead. Virtualization decreases planned and unplanned downtime for improved business continuity, gives the ability to run fewer servers as needed, and allows administrators to dynamically power down unused servers to reduce energy costs.

Consolidation of Storage

By creating a centralized storage area network (SAN), Adelphi IT has reduced its overall hardware footprint.

Installation of Energy-Saving Equipment

A new cooling system among our technology equipment has cut energy consumption and provides the ability to rotate equipment, thus conserving hardware usage as well.

Energy-Efficient Transportation

Adelphi IT uses electric-powered vehicles to transport computers and other equipment throughout the campus. Several information technology staff members have purchased hybrid cars for their personal use.

Recycling Program

Inkjet printer toner cartridges are recycled. A laser toner recycling program for administration is facilitated by Adelphi’s Mail Room and our new printing services partner, AM Exclusive. Inkjet toner should be returned by individuals to the vendor using a prepaid label which is usually included in the original box.

In addition, Adelphi IT hosts bi-annual eRecycle events in which various forms of technology are collected to be properly recycled.

If you are looking to recycle technology equipment any other time of the year, you can fill out our Equipment Recycling Request.