Device and method for monitoring load capacitance, multi-phase power supply and server

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a device and method for monitoring load capacitance, a multi-phase power supply and a server. A switch unit of the device comprises a first connecting end, a second connecting end, a third connecting end and a control end. The third connection may be electrically coupled to a load capacitance. The switch unit is configured to switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first connecting end is connected with the third connecting end. And in the second state, the second connecting end is connected with the third connecting end. The power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection end. The power supply unit is configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal. The voltage detection unit is electrically coupled to the second connection end. The voltage detection unit is configured to detect a voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state. The control unit is electrically coupled to the control terminal and the voltage detection unit. The power supply unit, the switch unit, the voltage detection unit and the control unit integrated in the device can directly detect the state of the load capacitor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to the field of electrical equipment, and more particularly to an apparatus, method, multiphase power supply and server for monitoring load capacitance. Background Technology

[0002] As chip performance continues to improve, higher demands are being placed on the stability of server power systems. Beyond basic power stability, fault warning and lifespan prediction capabilities are also required to ensure timely business response and improve server operational efficiency. In traditional multiphase power systems, transient currents can be absorbed by load capacitors to smooth voltage fluctuations and ensure stable chip operation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus for monitoring load capacitance is provided, comprising: a switching unit including a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal, the third connection terminal being adapted to be electrically coupled to a load capacitor, and the switching unit being configured to switch between a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, and in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal; a power supply unit electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal; a voltage detection unit electrically coupled to the second connection terminal and configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state; and a control unit electrically coupled to the control terminal and the voltage detection unit and configured to: put the switching unit in the first state to charge the load capacitor using the power supply unit; after the load capacitor has been charged for a first duration, switch the switching unit to the second state; acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; and generate a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current.

[0004] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a method for monitoring load capacitance is provided, comprising: placing a switching unit in a first state to charge a load capacitor using a power supply unit, wherein the switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal, the third connection terminal being adapted to be electrically coupled to the load capacitor, and the switching unit being configured to switch between the first state and a second state, wherein in the first state the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, and in the second state the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, and wherein the power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal; after the load capacitor has been charged for a first duration, switching the switching unit to the second state; acquiring a voltage detected by a voltage detection unit, wherein the voltage detection unit is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal and configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state; and generating a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current.

[0005] In a third aspect of this disclosure, a multiphase power supply is provided, comprising: the apparatus of the first aspect of this disclosure, wherein the control unit includes a plurality of output terminals; a plurality of power modules electrically coupled to corresponding output terminals of the plurality of output terminals; and a load capacitor electrically coupled to a third connection terminal of the plurality of power modules and a switching unit.

[0006] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a server is provided, comprising: a multiphase power supply according to a third aspect of this disclosure; and a load chip, a load capacitor electrically coupled to the multiphase power supply.

[0007] It should be understood that the content described in this section is not intended to limit the key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to restrict the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The above and other features, advantages, and aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements, wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 A circuit block diagram of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0010] Figure 2 A circuit block diagram of a multiphase power supply according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0011] Figure 3 A flowchart of a method for detecting load capacitance using an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0012] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0013] 100. Device; 10. Switching unit; 11. First connection terminal; 12. Second connection terminal; 13. Third connection terminal; 14. Control terminal; 20. Power supply unit; 30. Voltage detection unit; 40. Control unit; 41. Output terminal; 50. Detection line;

[0014] 200. Multiphase power supply; 210. Load capacitor; 220. Power module; 221. Driver MOSFET; 222. Output inductor; 500. Load chip. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0016] The term "comprising" and its variations as used herein signify open inclusion, i.e., "including but not limited to". Unless otherwise stated, the term "or" means "and / or". The term "based on" means "at least partially based on". The terms "one example embodiment" and "one embodiment" mean "at least one example embodiment". The term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment". The terms "first", "second", etc., may refer to different or the same objects.

[0017] In some conventional multiphase power supply systems, load capacitors can absorb transient currents, thereby smoothing voltage fluctuations and ensuring stable chip operation. However, load capacitors are mainly multilayer ceramic capacitors, which have complex internal structures and are used in large numbers. During use, the lifespan of load capacitors will decrease due to DC load and temperature conditions. In cases of power supply performance degradation or failure, problems caused by capacitors are quite common. To monitor the status of load capacitors in a timely manner, additional monitoring circuitry is required, which not only increases hardware costs but also occupies a significant amount of space.

[0018] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an apparatus, method, multiphase power supply, and server for monitoring load capacitance. The apparatus includes a switching unit, a power supply unit, a voltage detection unit, and a control unit. The switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal. The third connection terminal can be electrically coupled to the load capacitor. The switching unit is configured to switch between a first state and a second state. When the switching unit is in the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal. When the switching unit is in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal. The power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal. The power supply unit is configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal. The voltage detection unit is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal. The voltage detection unit is configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state. The control unit is electrically coupled to the control terminal and the voltage detection unit. In use, the control unit can first put the switching unit in the first state, thereby charging the load capacitor using the power supply unit. After the load capacitor has been charged for a first duration, the control unit can switch the switching unit to the second state. Then, the control unit can acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit. Subsequently, the control unit can generate a first indication signal based on the voltage, a first duration, and a first current to indicate the state of the load capacitor. Using this arrangement, through the integrated power supply unit, switching unit, voltage detection unit, and control unit, the device can not only charge the load capacitor but also detect its voltage, thereby determining the state of the load capacitor. The device does not require additional monitoring circuitry, reducing both system hardware costs and space requirements. The following will combine... Figures 1 to 3 The principles of this disclosure will be described in detail below.

[0019] like Figure 1 As shown, the device 100 for monitoring load capacitance includes a switching unit 10, a power supply unit 20, a voltage detection unit 30, and a control unit 40. As an example, the device 100 for monitoring load capacitance can be the main control device 100 of a multi-phase power supply 200. By integrating the power supply unit 20, switching unit 10, voltage detection unit 30, and control unit 40 within the device 100, the state of the load capacitance 210 can be directly monitored, thereby avoiding the need for additional monitoring circuitry.

[0020] like Figure 1As shown, the switching unit 10 can switch between different operating states to achieve charging and voltage detection of the load capacitor 210. The switching unit 10 includes a first connection terminal 11, a second connection terminal 12, a third connection terminal 13, and a control terminal 14. The first connection terminal 11 is electrically coupled to the power supply unit 20 to receive the charging current from the power supply unit 20. The second connection terminal 12 is electrically coupled to the voltage detection unit 30 and can transmit the voltage signal of the load capacitor 210. The third connection terminal 13 is electrically coupled to the load capacitor 210. The control terminal 14 can receive signals from the control unit 40 to control the state switching of the switching unit 10.

[0021] like Figure 1 As shown, the switching unit 10 can switch between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first connection terminal 11 is connected to the third connection terminal 13. The power supply unit 20 can provide a first current to the load capacitor 210 through the circuit between the first connection terminal 11 and the third connection terminal 13, thereby charging the load capacitor 210. At this time, the second connection terminal 12 is disconnected from the third connection terminal 13, and the voltage detection unit 30 does not work. In the second state, the second connection terminal 12 is connected to the third connection terminal 13, and the circuit between the load capacitor 210 and the voltage detection unit 30 is connected. The voltage detection unit 30 can detect the voltage of the load capacitor 210 through the third connection terminal 13.

[0022] In some embodiments, the third connection terminal 13 can be directly electrically connected to the load capacitor 210.

[0023] In other embodiments, the third connection terminal 13 may also be electrically connected to the load capacitor 210 via the detection line 50. As an example, the detection line 50 may include independent wires to enable inter-module connections or long-distance wiring. As another example, the detection line 50 may also be a printed trace on a circuit board. Printed traces are compact, have strong anti-interference capabilities, and are suitable for highly integrated circuits. It should be understood that the form of the detection line 50 can be flexibly selected according to application requirements, and this disclosure is not intended to limit it.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, the power supply unit 20 can provide a first current to the load capacitor 210. When the switching unit 10 is in the first state, the power supply unit 20 charges the load capacitor 210 through the first connection terminal 11 and the third connection terminal 13. As an example, the power supply unit 20 can be a high-precision current source.

[0025] like Figure 1As shown, the voltage detection unit 30 can detect the voltage of the load capacitor 210 when the switching unit 10 is in the second state. When the switching unit 10 switches to the second state, the second connection terminal 12 is connected to the third connection terminal 13. The voltage detection unit 30 can be electrically connected to the load capacitor 210 through the third connection terminal 13 to measure its voltage value after charging. In some embodiments, the voltage detection unit 30 may include an analog-to-digital converter or other type of voltage measurement circuit to convert the analog voltage signal into a digital signal for recognition and processing by the control unit 40.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the control unit 40 is electrically coupled to the control terminal 14 of the switching unit 10 and the voltage detection unit 30. By coordinating the working sequence, state, and duration of different units, the control unit 40 can monitor the load capacitor 210.

[0027] During monitoring, the control unit 40 can send a signal to the control terminal 14 of the switching unit 10, causing the switching unit 10 to be in a first state. At this time, the first connection terminal 11 is connected to the third connection terminal 13, which allows the power supply unit 20 to charge the load capacitor 210.

[0028] Next, the control unit 40 can charge the load capacitor 210 for a first duration via the timing module. After the load capacitor 210 is fully charged, the control unit 40 can switch the switching unit 10 to the second state via the control terminal 14. At this time, the second connection terminal 12 is connected to the third connection terminal 13. The control unit 40 can then acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 30.

[0029] Next, the control unit 40 can generate a first indication signal based on the voltage, a first duration, and a first current. The first indication signal can be used to indicate the state of the load capacitor 210. In some embodiments, the first indication signal generated by the control unit 40 can be a digital signal, an analog signal, or other forms of signal, used to indicate the capacitance, attenuation, health status, or fault condition of the load capacitor 210.

[0030] Using this arrangement, through the power supply unit 20, switching unit 10, voltage detection unit 30, and control unit 40 integrated within the device 100, the device can not only charge the load capacitor 210 but also detect the voltage of the load capacitor 210, thereby determining the state of the load capacitor. The device does not require additional monitoring circuitry, which helps reduce the system's hardware cost and space footprint.

[0031] In some embodiments, the control unit 40 may generate a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor 210 based on the effective capacitance value of the load capacitor 210. As an example, the control unit 40 may determine the effective capacitance value of the load capacitor 210 based on voltage, a first duration, and a first current.

[0032] In some embodiments, the effective capacitance value can be determined using the following formula:

[0033] C1=(I*t1) / V1

[0034] Where I is the first current, t1 is the first duration, V1 is the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 30, and C1 is the effective capacitance of the load capacitor 210.

[0035] Next, the control unit 40 can generate a first indication signal by comparing the calculated effective capacitance value with the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210. The initial capacitance value is the capacitance value of the load capacitor 210 at the time of manufacture, which can be determined through theoretical calculations and factory testing. The comparison between the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value can indicate the health status of the load capacitor 210. For example, if the ratio of the effective capacitance value to the initial capacitance value is small, it indicates that the load capacitor 210 has undergone serious aging or damage.

[0036] In some embodiments, the control unit 40 can generate a second indication signal to indicate the expected lifespan of the load capacitor 210 based on the effective capacitance and the initial capacitance of the load capacitor 210. In this way, the control unit 40 can analyze the difference between the effective capacitance and the initial capacitance of the load capacitor 210, thereby predicting the remaining lifespan of the load capacitor 210. The second indication signal helps remind maintenance personnel to replace or strengthen monitoring of load capacitors 210 that are at risk.

[0037] As an example, to predict the expected lifespan of the load capacitor 210, the control unit 40 can utilize a large amount of historical usage data of the load capacitor 210 to statistically determine the correspondence between the ratio of the effective capacitance value to the initial capacitance value and the expected lifespan. This correspondence can be pre-stored in the storage unit of the control unit 40 or the device 100. After determining the current effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210, the control unit 40 can output a second indication signal indicating the corresponding expected lifespan by querying the stored correspondence. As an example, the second indication signal can be a specific numerical value (such as "0.5", "1.2", "0.2", in months or years) or a status signal (such as "normal", "dangerous", "failure"), etc.

[0038] In some embodiments, the control unit 40 of the device 100 can also determine the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210 during the initial test. The control unit 40 can send a signal through the control terminal 14 to cause the switching unit 10 to enter a first state. At this time, the first connection terminal 11 is connected to the third connection terminal 13. The power supply unit 20 can charge the load capacitor 210 with a first current.

[0039] Next, after charging continues for a second duration, the control unit 40 can switch the switching unit 10 to a second state via the control terminal 14. At this time, the second connection terminal 12 is connected to the third connection terminal 13. The control unit 40 can obtain the initial voltage from the voltage detection unit 30.

[0040] Next, the control unit 40 can calculate the initial capacitance value using the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current. The initial capacitance value can be stored in the storage unit of the control unit 40 or the device 100, and the control unit 40 can read it when needed.

[0041] In some embodiments, the initial capacitance value can be determined using the following calculation formula:

[0042] C0=(I*t2) / V0

[0043] Where I is the first current, t2 is the second duration, V0 is the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 30, and C0 is the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first current, the first duration, and the second duration can be preset, predetermined parameter values. For example, the first current can be set to 1A. The first duration and the second duration can be set to 60s. These parameter values ​​are determined before detecting the effective or initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210, so when calculating the effective or initial capacitance value of the load capacitor 210, there is no need to set or measure them again; the preset values ​​can be used directly to complete the calculation.

[0045] In other embodiments, the first current, first duration, and second duration can also be dynamically set or detected in real time. Before detecting the effective or initial capacitance of the load capacitor 210, the actual values ​​of the current first current, first duration, and second duration are first obtained (e.g., by measuring the charging current through a current sensor and recording the charging time through a timer), and then the effective or initial capacitance of the load capacitor 210 is calculated based on these actually obtained charging currents and charging durations.

[0046] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the switching unit 10 may include an analog switch. In this way, the analog switch has the characteristics of fast switching and low on-resistance, which can efficiently control the charging and detection of the load capacitor 210.

[0047] This disclosure also provides a multiphase power supply 200. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the multiphase power supply 200 includes any of the aforementioned devices 100, multiple power modules 220, and a load capacitor 210. The control unit 40 of the device 100 includes multiple output terminals 41. The multiple power modules 220 are electrically coupled to corresponding output terminals 41 of the multiple output terminals 41. The load capacitor 210 is electrically coupled to the multiple power modules 220 and also electrically coupled to the third connection terminal 13 of the switching unit 10.

[0048] During the power supply process of the multiphase power supply 200 to the load chip 500, the control unit 40 can generate multiple pulse width modulation signals according to the voltage and current requirements of the load chip 500. The switching operation of each power module 220 is controlled via the output terminal 41. As an example, the power module 220 may include a driver for a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) 221. Employing a phase-interleaved design (e.g., a 120° phase difference between each phase in a three-phase system) can reduce output current ripple, thereby improving power supply efficiency and stability.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, each power module 220 also includes an output inductor 222. The output inductor 222 is electrically connected between the drive MOSFET 221 and the load capacitor 210. In this way, the output inductor 222 can smooth the pulse width modulation signal current into DC, store and release energy, thereby providing a stable power supply to the load chip 500.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, the load capacitor 210 is also electrically coupled to the third connection terminal 13 of the switching unit 10. With this arrangement, during operation, the control unit 40 can also put the switching unit 10 in a first state, thereby charging the load capacitor 210 using the power supply unit 20. After the load capacitor 210 has been charged for a first duration, the control unit 40 can switch the switching unit 10 to a second state. Next, the control unit 40 can acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 30. Then, the control unit 40 can generate a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor 210 based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current. Using this arrangement, by adding the power supply unit 20 and the switching unit 10 inside the device 100, the state of the load capacitor 210 can be directly detected without the need for additional monitoring circuitry, thus reducing both the hardware cost and the system's space footprint.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, the multiphase power supply 200 may also include a detection line 50. The detection line 50 is electrically connected between the load capacitor 210 and the third connection terminal 13 of the switching unit 10. As an example, the detection line 50 may include independent wires, thereby enabling inter-module connections or long-distance wiring. As another example, the detection line 50 may also be a printed trace on a circuit board. Printed traces have a compact structure, strong anti-interference capabilities, and are suitable for highly integrated circuits. It should be understood that the form of the detection line 50 can be flexibly selected according to application requirements, and this disclosure is not intended to limit it.

[0052] With this arrangement, the device can not only charge the load capacitor 210 via the detection line 50, but also detect the voltage of the load capacitor 210 via the detection line 50, thereby determining the state of the load capacitor 210. The device can reuse the detection line 50, eliminating the need for additional charging or monitoring lines, which helps reduce the hardware cost and space footprint of the system.

[0053] This disclosure also provides a server. The server includes a multiphase power supply 200 and a load chip 500, as described above. The load chip 500 is electrically coupled to a load capacitor 210 of the multiphase power supply 200.

[0054] During server operation, the multiphase power supply 200 provides a stable current to the load chip 500. Furthermore, the server can monitor the state of the load capacitor 210 via the main control unit 100 of the multiphase power supply 200. During operation, the control unit 40 of the main control unit 100 can first put the switching unit 10 in a first state, thereby charging the load capacitor 210 using the power supply unit 20. After the load capacitor 210 has been charged for a first duration, the control unit 40 can switch the switching unit 10 to a second state. Next, the control unit 40 can acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 30. Then, the control unit 40 can generate a first indication signal indicating the state of the load capacitor 210 based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current. Using this arrangement, by adding the power supply unit 20 and the switching unit 10 inside the device 100, the state of the load capacitor 210 can be directly detected without additional monitoring circuitry, reducing both the system's hardware cost and its space footprint.

[0055] This disclosure also provides a method for monitoring load capacitance. Figure 3A flowchart of the method is shown. This method can be executed by a control unit of the main control device 100 of the multiphase power supply. Specifically, in block 310, the control unit can position a switching unit in a first state to charge a load capacitor using the power supply unit. The switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal. The third connection terminal is adapted to be electrically coupled to the load capacitor. The switching unit is configured to switch between the first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, and in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal. The power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal.

[0056] Next, in box 320, the control unit can switch the switching unit to the second state after the load capacitor has been charged for a first period of time.

[0057] Next, in block 330, the control unit can acquire the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit, which is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal and configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state.

[0058] Next, in box 340, the control unit can generate a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitance based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current.

[0059] In this way, the state of the load capacitor can be directly monitored through the power supply unit, switching unit, voltage detection unit and control unit integrated inside the device, thereby avoiding the need to add additional monitoring circuits and helping to reduce the hardware cost and space occupation of the system.

[0060] In some embodiments, the control unit may also determine the effective capacitance value of the load capacitor based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current; and generate a first indication signal based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

[0061] In some embodiments, the control unit may also generate a second indication signal for indicating the expected lifespan of the load capacitor based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

[0062] In some embodiments, the control unit may also put the switching unit in a first state during the initial test; switch the switching unit to a second state after a second duration; acquire the initial voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; and determine the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor based on the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current.

[0063] Embodiments of this disclosure are also embodied in the following examples.

[0064] Example 1. A device for monitoring load capacitance, comprising:

[0065] A switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal. The third connection terminal is adapted to be electrically coupled to a load capacitor. The switching unit is configured to switch between a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, and in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal.

[0066] A power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal;

[0067] A voltage detection unit, electrically coupled to the second connection terminal, is configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state; and

[0068] The control unit is electrically coupled to the control terminal and the voltage detection unit, and is configured to:

[0069] The switching unit is placed in the first state so that the load capacitor is charged using the power supply unit;

[0070] After the load capacitor has been charged for a first period of time, the switching unit is switched to the second state;

[0071] Obtain the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit;

[0072] A first indication signal is generated based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current to indicate the state of the load capacitor.

[0073] Example 2. The apparatus according to Example 1, wherein generating a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitance based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current includes:

[0074] The effective capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current; and

[0075] The first indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

[0076] Example 3. The apparatus according to Example 2, wherein the control unit is further configured to:

[0077] A second indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor to indicate the expected lifespan of the load capacitor.

[0078] Example 4. The apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the state of the load capacitor includes the attenuation magnitude.

[0079] Example 5. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the control unit is further configured to:

[0080] During the initial test, the switching unit is placed in the first state;

[0081] After a second duration, the switching unit is switched to the second state;

[0082] Obtain the initial voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; and

[0083] The initial capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current.

[0084] Example 6. The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the switching unit comprises an analog switch.

[0085] Example 7. A method for monitoring load capacitance, comprising:

[0086] The switching unit is positioned in a first state to charge a load capacitor using a power supply unit. The switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal. The third connection terminal is adapted to be electrically coupled to the load capacitor. The switching unit is configured to switch between the first state and a second state. In the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, while in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal. The power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal.

[0087] After the load capacitor has been charged for a first period of time, the switching unit is switched to the second state;

[0088] The voltage detected by the voltage detection unit is obtained, wherein the voltage detection unit is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal and is configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state;

[0089] A first indication signal is generated based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current to indicate the state of the load capacitor.

[0090] Example 8. The method according to Example 7, wherein generating a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitance based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current includes:

[0091] The effective capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current; and

[0092] The first indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

[0093] Example 9. The method described in Example 8 further includes:

[0094] A second indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor to indicate the expected lifespan of the load capacitor.

[0095] Example 10. The method according to Example 7, wherein the state of the load capacitor includes the attenuation magnitude.

[0096] Example 11. The method according to any one of Examples 7 to 10 further includes:

[0097] During the initial test, the switching unit is placed in the first state;

[0098] After a second duration, the switching unit is switched to the second state;

[0099] Obtain the initial voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; and

[0100] The initial capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current.

[0101] Example 12. A multiphase power supply, comprising:

[0102] The apparatus according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the control unit includes a plurality of output terminals;

[0103] Multiple power modules are electrically coupled to corresponding output terminals of the multiple output terminals; and

[0104] The load capacitor is electrically coupled to the third connection terminal of the plurality of power modules and the switching unit.

[0105] Example 13. A multiphase power supply according to Example 12, wherein each power module includes:

[0106] The output inductor is electrically coupled to the load capacitor.

[0107] Example 14. The multiphase power supply according to Example 12 or 13 further includes:

[0108] The detection line is electrically connected between the load capacitor and the third connection terminal of the switching unit.

[0109] Example 15. A server comprising:

[0110] The multiphase power supply according to any one of Examples 12 to 14; and

[0111] The load chip is electrically coupled to the load capacitor of the multiphase power supply.

[0112] The various embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. These descriptions are exemplary and not exhaustive, and are not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein is chosen to best explain the principles, practical application, or technical improvements to the embodiments in the market, or to enable others skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A device (100) for monitoring load capacitance, comprising: A switching unit (10) includes a first connection terminal (11), a second connection terminal (12), a third connection terminal (13), and a control terminal (14). The third connection terminal (13) is adapted to be electrically coupled to a load capacitor (210). The switching unit (10) is configured to switch between a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the first connection terminal (11) is connected to the third connection terminal (13), and in the second state, the second connection terminal (12) is connected to the third connection terminal (13). The power supply unit (20) is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal (11) and is configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal (11); A voltage detection unit (30) is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal (12) and is configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor (210) when the switching unit (10) is in the second state; as well as The control unit (40) is electrically coupled to the control terminal (14) and the voltage detection unit (30), and is configured to: The switching unit is placed in the first state so that the load capacitor is charged using the power supply unit; After the load capacitor has been charged for a first period of time, the switching unit is switched to the second state; Obtain the voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; A first indication signal is generated based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current to indicate the state of the load capacitor.

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein generating a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current comprises: The effective capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current. as well as The first indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (40) is further configured to: A second indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor to indicate the expected lifespan of the load capacitor.

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the state of the load capacitor includes the attenuation magnitude.

5. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit (40) is further configured to: During the initial test, the switching unit is placed in the first state; After a second duration, the switching unit is switched to the second state; Obtain the initial voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; and The initial capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current.

6. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the switching unit (10) comprises an analog switch.

7. A method for monitoring load capacitance, comprising: The switching unit is positioned in a first state to charge a load capacitor using a power supply unit. The switching unit includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a third connection terminal, and a control terminal. The third connection terminal is adapted to be electrically coupled to the load capacitor. The switching unit is configured to switch between the first state and a second state. In the first state, the first connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal, while in the second state, the second connection terminal is connected to the third connection terminal. The power supply unit is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and configured to provide a first current to the first connection terminal. After the load capacitor has been charged for a first period of time, the switching unit is switched to the second state; The voltage detected by the voltage detection unit is obtained, wherein the voltage detection unit is electrically coupled to the second connection terminal and is configured to detect the voltage of the load capacitor when the switching unit is in the second state; A first indication signal is generated based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current to indicate the state of the load capacitor.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein generating a first indication signal for indicating the state of the load capacitor based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current comprises: The effective capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the voltage, the first duration, and the first current. as well as The first indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: A second indication signal is generated based on the effective capacitance value and the initial capacitance value of the load capacitor to indicate the expected lifespan of the load capacitor.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the state of the load capacitor includes the attenuation magnitude.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, further comprising: During the initial test, the switching unit is placed in the first state; After a second duration, the switching unit is switched to the second state; Obtain the initial voltage detected by the voltage detection unit; as well as The initial capacitance value of the load capacitor is determined based on the initial voltage, the second duration, and the first current.

12. A multiphase power supply (200), comprising: The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control unit (40) includes a plurality of output terminals (41); Multiple power modules (220) are electrically coupled to corresponding output terminals of the multiple output terminals (41); and The load capacitor (210) is electrically coupled to the third connection terminal (13) of the plurality of power modules (220) and the switching unit (10).

13. The multiphase power supply (200) according to claim 12, wherein each power module (220) comprises: The output inductor (222) is electrically coupled to the load capacitor (210).

14. The multiphase power supply (200) according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising: The detection line (50) is electrically connected between the load capacitor (210) and the third connection terminal (13) of the switching unit (10).

15. A server, comprising: The multiphase power supply (200) according to any one of claims 12 to 14; as well as The load chip (500) is electrically coupled to the load capacitor (210) of the multiphase power supply (200).

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