Switching Video Output Using Xrandr to Save Power
When using a Linux PC with multiple monitors connected, it is common for the video output to stay active on all connected monitors, even when they are not in use. This can lead to unnecessary power consumption and can be a nuisance when trying to conserve energy or reduce clutter on your desk. One solution to this problem is to use the Xrandr tool to switch the video output to a specific monitor, which can help save power and reduce clutter.
What is Xrandr?
Xrandr (short for X Resize and Rotate) is a command-line tool that allows users to modify the configuration of their graphical display in Linux. With Xrandr, users can change the resolution, rotation, and orientation of their monitors, as well as add, remove, and rearrange monitors in a multi-monitor setup. Xrandr is a powerful tool that can be used to customize the display to fit a user's specific needs.
How to Use Xrandr to Switch Video Output
To use Xrandr to switch the video output to a specific monitor, follow these steps:
Open a terminal window.
Type
xrandr -qto query the current display configuration. This will display a list of all connected monitors and their current resolutions and orientations.Identify the monitor that you want to switch the video output to. In this example, we will use the HDMI-1 monitor.
Type
xrandr --output HDMI-1 --autoto switch the video output to the HDMI-1 monitor. The --auto option tells Xrandr to use the native resolution of the monitor.
#!/bin/bash
xrandr -q
xrandr --output HDMI-1 --auto
Note: The above code block is a simple bash script that can be used to automate the process of switching the video output to the HDMI-1 monitor. To use the script, save it to a file (e.g. switch\_output.sh), make it executable (chmod +x switch\_output.sh), and run it in a terminal window (./switch\_output.sh).
Measurable Energy Savings
According to a study by the US Department of Energy, desktop computers account for about 3% of all electricity consumption in the United States. By using Xrandr to switch the video output to a specific monitor when it is not in use, users can save a measurable amount of energy. While the exact amount of energy saved will depend on the specific monitor and computer being used, even small reductions in energy consumption can add up over time and help reduce the overall carbon footprint of computer usage.