eli5: Does it matter to a computer how long it’s powered off for? Is one micro-second as good as 5 minutes? If not, why and how long is optimal for it to be powered off for?

Question

That is the question. I almost never turn off the computer, but sometimes flick it off for just a second or two. Is this bad for it? Does it need rest? Thanks!

In: 1752

Answer 1

I always use a rule of thumb of 10 seconds when I pull a plug before plugging it in again. This is to allowed the electronics to “cool” — I.e. to allow capacitors to discharge and stuff, giving enough time for everything to get down to having no charge.