how can I switch my computer on remotely when a power outage (for example) shuts it down?

July 22, 2007 2:53 PM

how can I switch my computer on remotely when a power outage (for example) shuts it down? I use gotomypc but it is useless if something turns the system off! I am using windows XP, ADSl and I'm in Australia
posted by Nayano to computers & internet (5 comments total)

There may be an option in the system BIOS to power back up after a power loss; another option is to invest in a battery backup (UPS) that will do clean shutdown/startups when power is interupted.
posted by bizwank at 3:00 PM on July 22, 2007 [1 favorite]

The BIOS settings for most computers can be set to make the machine start up automatically when power is applied.

You'll need to hit a certain key as the machine boots up to open the BIOS menu. This key varies from one motherboard to another, but it's usually one of the F keys or delete, there should be message on the boot screen like "press F3 for setup." Be careful in there and don't change anything you're not sure of.

on preview: what bizwank said.
posted by contraption at 3:03 PM on July 22, 2007

Wake-on-LAN may also be an option if your BIOS supports it.
posted by Matt Oneiros at 3:21 PM on July 22, 2007

Swap the motor for a relay in a pre-paid cellphone, leave it set to vibrate when called.
posted by -harlequin- at 3:29 PM on July 22, 2007 [3 favorites]

Most PCs have an option in the Bios to resume the last state the PC was in when power is cycled at the jack. Mine also has the option to startup it if looses power even if it was off.
posted by TheDukeofLancaster at 9:48 AM on July 23, 2007