The US Energy Star for computers program will include tablets, slates and two in one notebook computers within scope of the computer 6.1 specification. There has been significant pressure from purchasers to develop a specification for these products given the increased use of such products within the work place. The U.S. EPA (operators of the US Energy Star program) had originally intended to use the battery charging standard (BCS) for evaluating tablets and slates; but given that the BCS program is being discontinued, the EPA has now proposed using the notebook test methods and energy consumption levels to assess the tablet/slate products. In most cases, the slates/tablets would need to meet the lowest total energy consumption (TEC) specified for notebooks (category 0).

The U.S. EPA has now distributed a Draft Version 6.1 Energy Star Computers Test Method for stakeholder comments.  The EPA is requesting that comments be submitted on or before June 13, 2014. The draft revised test method is available on the Energy Star website.

The Energy Star computers version 6.1  specification also requires that products meet certain other design for environment provisions such as substance restrictions and appropriate design for recyclability.

The EPA had intended to release version 6.1 of the computer specification and certification requirements such that it takes effect on June 2, 2014 to align with the effective date for version 6.0. However, given that the test method will not be finalized until after the June 13, 2014 closing date for stakeholder comment; it’s more likely that the version 6.1 specification will become effective a few months later than planned.

ECD Compliance is a stakeholder in the development of several new Energy Star specifications and can assist manufacturers. For additional additional information or support with new Energy Star specifications, contact us.