Tools for optimizing Linux power management
A computer consists of many electronic components. In addition to the motherboard with the processor (CPU) and the graphic chip (GPU), the list includes random access memory (RAM), drives and storage media, card readers, a hard disk controller, sensors, and network interfaces. In the case of mobile devices, the display, keyboard, and touchpad all run on the same battery.
All these components need power. Modern CPUs have different power-saving mechanisms that significantly affect the power consumption and thus the battery life. This article studies some tools that monitor and manage power usage for the system. These tools will give you the information you need to adjust the necessary settings for optimal power usage.
Power Consumption
Power consumption depends on the electronic components enabled and installed in the device and on the programs running on the computer [1]. A small tool by the name of Lstopo [2] visualizes the information on electronic components running on the system (Figure 1). Lstopo is part of the hwloc package of hardware tools that is pre-installed or available in package form for many Linux systems. Communication between the individual components is via the internal I2C bus (see the box entitled "I2C").
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
US / Canada
UK / Australia
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
IBM Announces Powerhouse Linux Server
IBM has unleashed a seriously powerful Linux server with the LinuxONE Emperor 5.
-
Plasma Ends LTS Releases
The KDE Plasma development team is doing away with the LTS releases for a good reason.
-
Arch Linux Available for Windows Subsystem for Linux
If you've ever wanted to use a rolling release distribution with WSL, now's your chance.
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.