Maximization of performance of an electronic device by maintaining constant junction temperature independent of ambient temperature

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for maximizing performance of an electronic device, such as a display device. Aspects of the exemplary embodiments include operating the electronic device by adjusting power to the device to maintain a predetermined junction temperature of the device independent of the ambient temperature at which the device is operating.

Description

Background technique [0001] Most electronic devices generate heat during normal operation. Electronic devices can malfunction and fail if they overheat, so manufacturers try to design devices so that they don't overheat. Manufacturers of electronic devices incorporating semiconductors typically design each electronic device to have a maximum allowable junction temperature at which it should function properly. The junction temperature of a semiconductor device is the temperature of the semiconductor junction region where the semiconductor device generates the most heat. Elevated junction temperatures can shorten the product life of electronic devices and increase the likelihood of product failure. As a result, prudent manufacturers often design electronic devices to operate below the maximum allowable junction temperature at the maximum specified ambient temperature, where ambient temperature is the ambient air temperature, to prolong life and improve reliability. [0002] F...

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Problems solved by technology

This example may be an oversimplification because as the ambient temperature decreases, the junction temperature must decrease, but perhaps not strictly linearly, because the cooling setting may be reduced as the ambient temperature decreases

In addition, a lower junction temperature increases the efficiency of the LED, so the brightness of the LED may increase by several lumens when the junction temperature is lowered

[0009] In general, while worse performance of cooling equipment in electronic equipment results in faster heating of the equipment and may result in poorer performance, better performance of cooling equipment results in better cooling but does not improve performance of the equipment

This is because the maximum junction temperature is used to calculate the constant input drive current, which in turn imposes a limit on the output brightness of the LED

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