Information processing apparatus and control method

Abstract

The invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a control method. The information processing apparatus operates in an appropriate state in which a balance between performance and power consumption is obtained. An information processing device includes: an input unit that receives an input from a user; a control unit capable of executing information processing so that the set power consumption limit value is not exceeded; an input delay detection unit that detects a delay time from the input received by the input unit until the input is output to a display unit; and a power control unit that controls the limit value of the power consumption in accordance with the delay time detected by the input delay detection unit such that the delay time falls within a predetermined range.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a control method. Background Technology

[0002] In information processing devices such as personal computers (PCs), if performance is prioritized, perf / watt efficiency deteriorates, sometimes resulting in unnecessary power consumption, cooling fan noise, and increased chassis temperature. To address these issues, in recent years, attempts have been made to set power limits in information processing devices to achieve a balance between performance and power consumption (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 7521065

[0004] However, in information processing devices, such as those processing various tasks, the operating conditions are always changing. Therefore, in existing information processing devices, it is difficult to achieve a proper balance between performance and power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide an information processing device and control method that can operate in a suitable state of achieving a balance between performance and power consumption.

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus comprising: an input unit for receiving input from a user; a control unit capable of performing information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed a set power consumption limit; an input delay detection unit for detecting the delay time from the input received from the input unit to the output to the display unit; and a power control unit for controlling the power consumption limit based on the delay time detected by the input delay detection unit, so that the delay time falls within a specified range.

[0007] Alternatively, in the above-described information processing apparatus, the power consumption limit can be set to multiple stages, and the power control unit changes the stages of the power consumption limit based on the delay time to control the power consumption limit.

[0008] Alternatively, in the above-described information processing apparatus, when the delay time is earlier than the specified range, the power control unit changes the stage in the direction of reducing the power consumption limit; when the delay time is later than the specified range, the power control unit changes the stage in the direction of increasing the power consumption limit.

[0009] Alternatively, in the above-described information processing apparatus, the power control unit may change the number of the changed stages based on the degree to which the delay time deviates from the specified range.

[0010] Alternatively, in the above-described information processing apparatus, the input delay detection unit utilizes the user input delay function of the operating system to detect the delay time every second.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is a control method for an information processing device, the information processing device comprising: an input unit for receiving input from a user; and a control unit capable of performing information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed a set power consumption limit. The control method includes: an input delay detection step, wherein the input delay detection unit detects the delay time from the input received from the input unit to its output to the display unit; and a power control step, wherein the power control unit controls the power consumption limit based on the delay time detected by the input delay detection step, so that the delay time falls within a predetermined range.

[0012] According to the above-described method of the present invention, operation can be performed in a suitable state that achieves a balance between performance and power consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware structure of a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the principle of power control in a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the concept of power control for a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 The first figure is an example illustrating the operation of a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 The second figure illustrates an example of the operation of a notebook PC according to this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the effect of the notebook PC according to this embodiment. Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0021] 1…Notebook PC; 10…Main control unit; 11…CPU; 12…Main memory; 13…Video subsystem; 14…Display unit; 21…Chipset; 22…BIOS memory; 23…SSD; 24…Audio system; 25…WLAN card; 31…Embedded controller (EC); 32…Input unit; 33…Power supply circuit; 34…Battery; 35…Cooling fan; 36…Temperature sensor; 40…Storage unit; 41…Power limit setting storage unit; 42…Step setting storage unit; 101…OS processing unit; 102…Input delay detection unit; 103…Power control unit. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Hereinafter, an information processing apparatus and a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the main hardware structure of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, the notebook PC1 (notebook personal computer) includes: CPU 11, main memory 12, video subsystem 13, display unit 14, chipset 21, BIOS memory 22, SSD 23, audio system 24, WLAN card 25, embedded controller 31, input unit 32, power supply circuit 33, battery 34, cooling fan 35, and temperature sensor 36. In this embodiment, as an example of an information processing device, the case where the information processing device is a notebook PC1 will be described.

[0025] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 performs various calculations and controls the entire laptop PC1 through program control.

[0026] Main memory 12 is a writable memory used as a read-in area for the CPU 11's executable program or as a work area for writing processing data to the executable program. Main memory 12 is, for example, composed of multiple DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) chips. The executable program includes an OS (operating system), various drivers for hardware operations on peripheral devices, various services / utilities, applications, etc.

[0027] The video subsystem 13 is a subsystem for implementing functions related to image display and includes a video controller. The video controller processes drawing commands from the CPU 11, writes the processed drawing information into the video memory, and reads the drawing information from the video memory and outputs it as drawing data (display data) to the display unit 14.

[0028] The display unit 14 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, which displays a screen based on the drawing data (display data) output from the video subsystem 13.

[0029] The chipset 21 features controllers for USB (Universal Serial Bus), Serial ATA (AT Attachment), SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect), PCI-Express (PCIe), and LPC (Low Pin Count) buses, enabling the connection of multiple devices. Figure 1 In the example of the device, BIOS memory 22 and SSD 23 are connected to chipset 21.

[0030] The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) memory 22 is composed of electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) or Flash ROM. The BIOS memory 22 stores the BIOS and system firmware used to control the embedded controller 31, etc.

[0031] SSD (Solid State Drive) 23 (an example of a non-volatile storage device) stores the OS, various drivers, various services / utilities, applications, and various data.

[0032] The audio system 24 records, reproduces, and outputs sound data.

[0033] The WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) card 25 connects to the network via a wireless LAN for data communication.

[0034] The embedded controller 31 is a one-chip microcomputer that monitors and controls various devices (peripherals, sensors, etc.) independently of the system state of the laptop PC1. Additionally, the embedded controller 31 has power management functions for controlling the power supply circuit 33. Furthermore, the embedded controller 31 is composed of a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. (not shown), and has multiple channels of A / D input terminals, D / A output terminals, timers, and digital input / output terminals. The embedded controller 31 is connected to, for example, an input section 32, a power supply circuit 33, a cooling fan 35, and a temperature sensor 36 via these input / output terminals, and controls their operation.

[0035] In addition, the embedded controller 31 can also control power consumption by changing the operating frequency and average processing speed of the CPU 11 through the chipset 21.

[0036] The input unit 32 is, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, touchpad, or mouse, which accepts input from the user. The input unit 32 may detect the user's operation as input and output an operation signal corresponding to the detected operation to the embedded controller 31. The input unit 32 may also be configured as a touch sensor that overlaps with the display unit 14.

[0037] The power supply circuit 33 includes, for example, a DC / DC converter, a charging / discharging unit, and an AC / DC adapter. For instance, the power supply circuit 33 converts the DC voltage supplied from an external power source such as an AC adapter (not shown) or a battery 34 into multiple voltages required to operate the laptop PC1. Furthermore, the power supply circuit 33 supplies power to various parts of the laptop PC1 under the control of the embedded controller 31.

[0038] Battery 34 is, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion battery. When power is supplied to the laptop PC1 from an external power source, battery 34 is charged via power circuit 33. Furthermore, when power is not supplied to the laptop PC1 from an external power source, battery 34 outputs the stored power as operating power to the laptop PC1 via power circuit 33.

[0039] A cooling fan 35 is mounted on the chassis (not shown) of the laptop PC1 to cool the components stored inside the chassis. The cooling fan 35 primarily dissipates heat from components that generate significant heat, such as the CPU 11. The cooling fan 35 rotates its heatsink to draw air into the chassis, allowing the drawn-in air to exchange heat with the components inside the chassis. The air, heated by this heat exchange, is then exhausted to the outside of the chassis. The operation of the cooling fan 35 is controlled, for example, by an embedded controller 31.

[0040] Temperature sensor 36 is located inside the chassis of the laptop PC1 to detect the temperature at that location. Temperature sensor 36 is positioned within a specified distance of a heat-generating device, such as the CPU 11. Temperature sensor 36 outputs a temperature signal, representing the detected temperature, to embedded controller 31. Embedded controller 31 controls the operation of cooling fan 35 based on the temperature signal from temperature sensor 36.

[0041] Furthermore, the CPU 11 and chipset 21 mentioned above are, for example, processors, which in this embodiment correspond to the main control unit 10. Additionally, the main control unit 10 is an example of a processor (main processor) that executes a program stored in the memory (main memory 12).

[0042] Generally, the power consumption of the CPU 11 and chipset 21 (main control unit 10) is variable. The main control unit 10 has a mechanism that controls one or both of the operating voltage and operating frequency based on the power consumption. For example, the main control unit 10 executes the system firmware and sets the maximum allowed operating frequency in its own registers according to the operating state (operating mode) or power control mode of the main system of the laptop PC 1. The main system is a computer system comprising hardware such as the CPU 11, chipset 21, and main memory 12, and software such as the OS and scheduled tasks. The devices constituting the main system are equivalent to system devices. The main control unit 10 forms the core of the system devices.

[0043] The main control unit 10 executes the BIOS and collaborates with other system devices to control the input and output of data based on each system device. The main control unit 10 also collaborates with the main memory 12 or other devices to execute the OS, providing the basic functions of the notebook PC1. These basic functions include, for example, managing and controlling the execution status of various applications and other programs, providing standard interfaces for the execution of these programs, and managing resources in the main system and hardware that directly or indirectly collaborates with the main system.

[0044] Generally, the higher the operating frequency, the more power the processor consumes. A lower and upper limit for the operating frequency are set within the processor. For example, a function or control table representing the relationship between operating frequency and power consumption can be pre-defined within the processor for each operating frequency. Referring to this relationship, the operating frequency corresponding to the target power consumption can be determined. By setting the operating frequency to the lower limit, minimum processing power is guaranteed. By setting the operating frequency to the upper limit, processing power is maximized. This relationship, as described later, can be linked to operating modes and power control parameters.

[0045] Generally, the higher the processor's operating frequency or utilization, the greater the power consumption and therefore the more heat generated. The processor operates at a power consumption below the set maximum by setting an operating frequency that corresponds to a power consumption below the maximum allowed. Therefore, the lower the operating frequency, the less power is consumed, and the longer the process execution time. Furthermore, the OS can execute multiple processes simultaneously, thus allocating computing resources such as memory and power to each process. Execution time depends on the presence or number of other concurrently running processes and the processing instructions within each process. Therefore, the responsiveness of the main control unit 10 depends on the current operating state, affecting the user experience (UX).

[0046] Next, refer to Figure 2 The functional structure of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the notebook PC1 includes a main control unit 10 and a storage unit 40. Furthermore, in Figure 2 This document only describes the main functional structures related to the invention in this embodiment.

[0049] Storage unit 40 is a storage unit implemented, for example, through main memory 12 or SSD 23, storing various information used by the laptop PC 1. Storage unit 40 stores, for example, various information used for BIOS processing, OS processing, and power control processing. Storage unit 40 includes power limit setting storage unit 41 and step setting storage unit 42.

[0050] The power limit setting storage unit 41 is a storage unit implemented, for example, through the main memory 12, which stores the currently set setting information related to power control. The power limit setting storage unit 41 stores, for example, the steps (stages, levels, etc.) indicating the operation mode, as described later, and power control parameters (e.g., power limit (PL), lower limit and upper limit of operation frequency, etc.).

[0051] The step setting storage unit 42 is a storage unit implemented, for example, through main memory 12 or SSD 23, which stores multiple stages (steps) and the values ​​of power control parameters corresponding to each step. Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, a step with five stages is described as an example of changing the value of the power limit (e.g., PL1: PowerLimit 1) as a power control parameter.

[0052] Step 5 (LV5): PL1 = PL15

[0053] Step 4 (LV4): PL1 = PL14

[0054] Step 3 (LV3): PL1 = PL13

[0055] Step 2 (LV2): PL1 = PL12

[0056] Step 1 (LV1): PL1 = PL11

[0057] Furthermore, step 5 (LV5) is the operating mode with the highest power limit value (power consumption limit value), and step 1 (LV1) is the operating mode with the lowest power limit value. (PL15 > PL14 > PL13 > PL12 > PL11).

[0058] In addition, PL1 (Power Limit 1) is equivalent to the limit value of the rated power.

[0059] The main control unit 10 is a functional unit implemented by causing the CPU 11 to execute programs stored in the BIOS memory 22, SSD 23, and main memory 12. The main control unit 10 performs OS- and BIOS-based processing. The main control unit 10 can perform information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed the set power limit. The main control unit 10 includes, for example, an OS processing unit 101, an input delay detection unit 102, and a power control unit 103.

[0060] The OS processing unit 101 is a functional unit implemented by causing the CPU 11 to execute the program of the OS stored in the SSD 23 and the main memory 12, and performs OS-based processing. The OS processing unit 101 has the function of detecting the delay time from the input received from the input unit 32 to the output to the display unit 14, that is, the function of detecting the delay time by the OS (e.g., Windows (registered trademark)) as "User Input Delay".

[0061] The input delay detection unit 102 is a functional unit implemented by causing the CPU 11 to execute the driver stored in the SSD 23 and the main memory 12, for example, corresponding to the driver (device driver) attached to the OS. The input delay detection unit 102 detects the delay time (input-output time) from the input received from the input unit 32 to the output to the display unit 14. For example, the input delay detection unit 102 uses the "User Input Delay" function of the OS described above to detect the delay time (input-output time) every second.

[0062] The power control unit 103 is a functional unit implemented by causing the CPU 11 to execute the drivers stored in the SSD 23 and main memory 12, for example, corresponding to a driver (device driver) attached to the OS. The power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit value (power limit value) based on the delay time (input-output time) detected by the input delay detection unit 102, so that the delay time falls within a specified range. Here, the specified range is, for example, set to achieve a balance between performance and power consumption.

[0063] The power control unit 103 performs control as follows: when the delay time (input-output time) is later (longer) than a specified range, it increases the power consumption limit (power limit value). Alternatively, the power control unit 103 performs control as follows: when the delay time (input-output time) is earlier (shorter) than a specified range, it decreases the power consumption limit (power limit value).

[0064] Here, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The concept of power control for the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment will be explained.

[0065] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the principle of power control for the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0066] exist Figure 3 In the chart shown, the horizontal axis represents the power limit value [W (watts)], and the vertical axis represents the processing time [S (seconds)].

[0067] Additionally, waveform W1 represents the relationship between the task completion time and the power limit. Furthermore, waveform W2 represents the relationship between the average "User Input Delay" (input-output time) and the power limit.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, it is assumed that the task completion time of waveform W1 and the input-output time of waveform W2 tend to be similar, and there is a correlation (proportional relationship) between the task completion time and the input-output time. Therefore, based on this relationship, the input-output time can be used to replace the task completion time.

[0069] in addition, Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the concept of power control for a notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0070] exist Figure 4 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents time, and the input-output time TDLY represents the delay time from the input received from the input unit 32 such as mouse and keyboard to the output corresponding to the input by the display unit 14.

[0071] Furthermore, regarding the input-output time TDLY, the region before time TDLY1 is the "fast (useless)" region, characterized by high processing speed and unnecessary power consumption. Conversely, the region from time TDLY1 to time TDLY2 is the "balanced" region, representing the optimal balance between performance and power consumption for the laptop PC1. Finally, the region after time TDLY2 is the "slow (SLOW)" region, characterized by slow processing speed and insufficient performance.

[0072] Here, the "balance" region from time TDLY1 to time TDLY2 corresponds to the aforementioned specified range (threshold range RG1). In this embodiment, if the power limit value (power consumption limit value) is controlled to fall within... Figure 4 Within the "balance" region shown from time TDLY1 to time TDLY2, the optimal operating state that achieves a balance between performance and power consumption can be obtained.

[0073] That is, when the input-output time TDLY is in the "fast (useless)" region, the power control unit 103 controls the power limit value to decrease so as to make it a "balanced" region (threshold range RG1). On the other hand, when the input-output time TDLY is in the "slow" region, the power control unit 103 controls the power limit value to increase so as to make it a "balanced" region (threshold range RG1).

[0074] Return to Figure 3 Specifically, as described above, the power consumption limit is set in multiple stages (5 stages). The power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit by changing the power consumption limit based on the delay time (input-output time) in each stage. As a power control parameter, the power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit by changing, for example, the limit value of the rated power of the processor constituting the main control unit 10, i.e., PL1.

[0075] For example, if the delay time (input-output time) is earlier than a specified range (threshold range RG1) (less than the lower limit of threshold range RG1), the power control unit 103 changes the step (stage) in the direction of reducing the power consumption limit value (e.g., the value of PL1). Conversely, if the delay time (input-output time) is later than the specified range (threshold range RG1) (greater than the upper limit of threshold range RG1), the power control unit 103 changes the step (stage) in the direction of increasing the power consumption limit value (e.g., the value of PL1).

[0076] When a step (stage) is changed, the power control unit 103 retrieves the power control parameters corresponding to the changed step from the step setting storage unit 42 and sets them in the register of the main control unit 10 to change the step. In addition, the power control unit 103 establishes a correspondence between the changed step and the power control parameters and stores it in the power limit setting storage unit 41 as the setting information for the current step.

[0077] Next, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the operation of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0078] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, firstly, the main control unit 10 of the laptop PC1 detects the input-output time (step S101). The input delay detection unit 102 of the main control unit 10 detects the input-output time every second, for example, using the "User Input Delay" function of the OS processing unit 101.

[0080] Next, the power control unit 103 of the main control unit 10 determines whether the input-output time is earlier than a threshold range (an example of a specified range) (step S102). The power control unit 103, for example, determines... Figure 4 The power control unit 103 determines whether the input-output time TDLY is earlier than a threshold range (e.g., threshold range RG1 (the range of TDL1 to TDL2)). If the input-output time is earlier than the threshold range (step S102: Yes), the power control unit 103 proceeds to step S103. Otherwise, if the input-output time is not earlier than the threshold range (step S102: No), the power control unit 103 proceeds to step S104.

[0081] In step S103, the power control unit 103 reduces the power limit value by one step. The power control unit 103 retrieves the current step information from the power limit setting storage unit 41 and retrieves step information one step lower than the current step from the step setting storage unit 42. The power control unit 103 sets the power control parameters corresponding to the changed step retrieved from the step setting storage unit 42 into the register of the main control unit 10 to change the step. Furthermore, the power control unit 103 establishes a correspondence between the changed step and the power control parameters and stores it as the setting information (step information) for the current step in the power limit setting storage unit 41. After processing in step S103, the power control unit 103 returns the processing to step S101.

[0082] Additionally, in step S104, the power control unit 103 determines whether the input-output time is later than a threshold range. For example, the power control unit 103 determines... Figure 4 The power control unit 103 determines whether the input-output time TDLY is later than a threshold range (e.g., threshold range RG1 (the range of TDL1 to TDL2)). If the input-output time is later than the threshold range (step S104: Yes), the power control unit 103 causes the process to proceed to step S105. Otherwise, if the input-output time is not later than the threshold range (step S104: No), the power control unit 103 causes the process to return to step S101.

[0083] In step S105, the power control unit 103 retrieves the current step information from the power limit setting storage unit 41 and the step information of the next higher step from the step setting storage unit 42. The power control unit 103 sets the power control parameters corresponding to the changed step retrieved from the step setting storage unit 42 into the register of the main control unit 10 to change the step. Furthermore, the power control unit 103 establishes a correspondence between the changed step and the power control parameters and stores this as the setting information (step information) for the current step in the power limit setting storage unit 41. After processing in step S105, the power control unit 103 returns the processing to step S101.

[0084] Furthermore, when the input-output time is within a threshold range, the power control unit 103 maintains the currently set steps (stages) as is.

[0085] Next, refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 ,right Figure 5 The specific examples of the processing described in the flowchart shown will be explained.

[0086] Figure 6 The first figure is an example illustrating the operation of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0087] Figure 6 The example shown illustrates a power control scenario where the input-output time lags behind the threshold range RG1.

[0088] exist Figure 6 The process is divided into five stages: "Step 1" (LV1) to "Step 5" (LV5). In addition, under the current action state ST1, the action mode step is set to "Step 3" (LV3).

[0089] In the "Step 3" (LV3) operation state ST1, if the input-output time detected by the input delay detection unit 102 is later than the threshold range RG1, the power control unit 103 changes the power limit value to "Step 4" (LV4) one stage higher and then moves to the operation state ST2.

[0090] in addition, Figure 7 The second figure illustrates an example of the operation of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0091] Figure 7 The example shown illustrates a power control scenario where the input-output time is earlier than the threshold range RG1.

[0092] exist Figure 7 In, with Figure 6 Similarly, the steps are set into 5 stages: "Step 1" (LV1) to "Step 5" (LV5). In addition, under the current action state ST3, the action mode step is set to "Step 3" (LV3).

[0093] In the "Step 3" (LV3) operation state ST3, if the input-output time detected by the input delay detection unit 102 is earlier than the threshold range RG1, the power control unit 103 changes the power limit value to "Step 2" (LV2) which is one stage smaller, and then moves to the operation state ST4.

[0094] As described above, the notebook PC1 (information processing device) according to this embodiment includes an input unit 32, a main control unit 10, an input delay detection unit 102, and a power control unit 103. The input unit 32 receives input from the user. The main control unit 10 performs information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed a set power consumption limit. The input delay detection unit 102 detects the delay time (e.g., input-output time) from the input received from the input unit 32 to the output to the display unit 14. The power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit (power limit value) based on the delay time (e.g., input-output time) detected by the input delay detection unit 102, so that the delay time falls within a specified range (threshold range RG1).

[0095] Therefore, in the notebook PC1 (information processing device) of this embodiment, as described above... Figure 3As shown, since the delay time (e.g., input-output time) detected by the input delay detection unit 102 is correlated with the task completion time, the operating state of the laptop PC1 can be appropriately detected using the delay time (e.g., input-output time). Therefore, the laptop PC1 (information processing device) according to this embodiment controls the power consumption limit (power limit value) based on the delay time (e.g., input-output time) so that the delay time falls within a specified range (threshold range RG1), thereby achieving an appropriate state of balance between performance and power consumption (e.g., ...). Figure 8 The action is performed within the range of BRG1 (state).

[0096] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the effect of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment.

[0097] exist Figure 8 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the application's processing time (corresponding to task completion time), and the vertical axis represents power consumption. Additionally, the range BRG1 indicates the optimal operating range for achieving a balance between performance and power consumption.

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, the notebook PC1 (information processing device) according to this embodiment can easily operate in an appropriate state that achieves a balance between performance and power consumption by using a delay time (e.g., input-output time). Furthermore, the notebook PC1 (information processing device) according to this embodiment does not require detecting the operation state during virtual task processing; after detecting the input-output time, it can quickly change the power consumption limit (power limit value), thus rapidly responding to changes in the operation state and achieving an appropriate state that achieves a balance between performance and power consumption.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power consumption limit (power limit value) can be set to multiple stages (multiple steps). The power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit (power limit value) by changing the stages (steps) of the power consumption limit value according to the delay time (input-output time).

[0100] Therefore, by changing the power consumption limit value (power limit value step) of the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment, the power consumption limit value (power limit value) can be controlled, and the power consumption limit value (power limit value) can be easily controlled. Through simpler processing, it is possible to operate in an appropriate state that achieves a balance between performance and power consumption.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the delay time (input-output time) is earlier than a predetermined range (threshold range RG1), the power control unit 103 changes the step (stage) in the direction of reducing the power consumption limit value (power limit value). When the delay time (input-output time) is later than the predetermined range (threshold range RG1), the power control unit 103 changes the step (stage) in the direction of increasing the power consumption limit value (power limit value).

[0102] Therefore, according to this embodiment, the notebook PC1 changes the power consumption limit value (power limit value) in steps (stages), thus further shortening the processing time for controlling the power consumption limit value (power limit value) and enabling rapid response to changes in the operating state.

[0103] In addition, in this embodiment, the power control unit 103 can also change the number of steps to be changed based on the degree to which the delay time deviates from the specified range (outside the threshold range RG1) (degree of deviation).

[0104] Therefore, for example, when the delay time (input-output time) deviates significantly from the specified range (threshold range RG1), the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment can change multiple steps, thereby further improving the responsiveness to changes in the action state.

[0105] In addition, in this embodiment, the input delay detection unit 102 uses the User Input Delay function of the OS (e.g., Windows (registered trademark)) to detect the delay time (input-output time) every 1 second.

[0106] Therefore, the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment utilizes the functions of the OS, thus enabling simple detection of latency (input-output time) through a simple structure, and achieving an appropriate balance between performance and power consumption through an even simpler structure.

[0107] In addition, in this embodiment, as a power control parameter, the power control unit 103 changes the rated power limit value, namely PL1 (Power Limit 1), of the processor constituting the main control unit 10 to control the power consumption limit value.

[0108] Therefore, the notebook PC1 according to this embodiment uses PL1 as a power control parameter, thus enabling simple and appropriate control of power consumption limits (power limits) through a simpler structure.

[0109] Furthermore, the control method according to this embodiment is a control method for a notebook PC1, including an input delay detection step and a power control step. The notebook PC1 includes: an input unit 32 for receiving input from a user; and a main control unit 10 capable of performing information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed a set power limit value (power limit value). In the input delay detection step, the input delay detection unit 102 detects the delay time (input-output time) from the input received from the input unit 32 to the output to the display unit 14. In the power control step, the power control unit 103 controls the power consumption limit value (power limit value) based on the delay time (input-output time) detected by the input delay detection step, so that the delay time (input-output time) falls within a specified range (threshold range RG1).

[0110] Therefore, the control method according to this embodiment achieves the same effect as the notebook PC1 described above, and can achieve a suitable balance between performance and power consumption (e.g., Figure 8 The action is performed within the range of BRG1 (state).

[0111] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0112] For example, in the above embodiments, the information processing device is described as a notebook PC1, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may also be a tablet terminal device, a desktop PC, or other information processing devices.

[0113] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of the power control unit 103 using PL1 as a power control parameter to control the power consumption limit (power limit value) has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the power control unit 103 may also control the power consumption limit (power limit value) using any one of PL1, PL2 (Power Limit 2), and PL4 (Power Limit 4), or a combination of some or all of them.

[0114] Here, PL1 is a threshold used to allow the CPU11's power consumption to temporarily exceed a certain value, but to limit the duration of exceeding this value to a specified duration. Additionally, PL2 is a threshold used to limit the short-term moving average of power consumption from exceeding this value. PL2 is also known as the Short Term Power Limit. Furthermore, PL4 corresponds to the instantaneous maximum power. PL4 is a threshold used to limit the CPU11's power consumption from exceeding this value even if the instantaneous value is instantaneous (e.g., a short period of tens of μs to tens of ms). PL4 can be an intentionally larger value than the time-smoothed PL2.

[0115] Additionally, power control parameters may include EPP (Energy Performance Preference). EPP is a parameter related to the CPU11's frequency behavior. A smaller EPP setting results in higher performance for the CPU11, while a larger setting results in lower power consumption.

[0116] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of the power control unit 103 changing the power consumption limit value (power limit value) in steps (stages) has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the power consumption limit value (power limit value) can be changed with any value.

[0117] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the power control unit 103 changes the power consumption limit value (power limit value) in one step (stage), but it is also possible to change it in two or more steps.

[0118] In addition, the power control unit 103 can also change the number of steps changed according to the degree of deviation of the delay time (input-output time) from the threshold range RG1.

[0119] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, an example of five steps (stages) for determining the power consumption limit (power limit value) has been described, but this is not a limitation. The number of steps (stages) may be four or less or six or more.

[0120] Furthermore, each of the structures in the aforementioned notebook PC1 has an internal computer system. Moreover, programs for implementing the functions of each structure in the notebook PC1 can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the processing in each structure of the notebook PC1 can be performed by having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium. Here, "having the computer system read and execute the program recorded on the recording medium" includes installing programs into the computer system. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as the operating system and peripheral devices.

[0121] Furthermore, a "computer system" can also include multiple computer devices connected via networks including the Internet, WAN, LAN, and dedicated lines. Additionally, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as floppy disks, optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as recording devices built into computer systems such as hard drives. Thus, recording media storing programs can be non-transitory recording media such as CD-ROMs.

[0122] Furthermore, the recording medium also includes internal or external recording media that can be accessed from a distribution server for distributing the program. Additionally, the program can be divided into multiple parts, downloaded at different times, and then assembled from the various components of the laptop PC1, with each part distributed via a different distribution server. Moreover, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes structures that retain the program for a certain period, such as a server in the case of sending the program over a network, or volatile memory (RAM) within the computer system acting as a client. Furthermore, the aforementioned program can also be a structure used to implement the functions described above. Further, it can also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can be implemented by combining the aforementioned functions with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0123] Alternatively, some or all of the above functions can be implemented as LSI (Large Scale Integration) or other integrated circuits. The functions can be processed individually or integrated in part or in whole. Furthermore, the method of integrated circuit implementation is not limited to LSI; it can also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. Additionally, if advancements in semiconductor technology lead to integrated circuit technologies that replace LSI, integrated circuits based on these technologies can also be used.

Claims

1. An information processing device, comprising: The input section accepts input from users; The main control unit is capable of performing information processing to ensure that the power consumption does not exceed the set limit. The input delay detection unit detects the delay time from when the input is received from the input unit to when it is output to the display unit; as well as The power control unit controls the power consumption limit value based on the delay time detected by the input delay detection unit, so that the delay time falls within a specified range.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned power consumption limit can be set in multiple stages. The power control unit changes the power consumption limit value at the stage described above based on the aforementioned delay time, thereby controlling the power consumption limit value.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, If the aforementioned delay time is earlier than the aforementioned specified range, the power control unit changes the aforementioned stage in the direction of reducing the aforementioned power consumption limit value. If the aforementioned delay time is later than the aforementioned specified range, the power control unit changes the aforementioned stage in the direction of increasing the aforementioned power consumption limit value.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The power control unit changes the number of the aforementioned stages based on the degree to which the aforementioned delay time deviates from the aforementioned specified range.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The aforementioned input delay detection unit utilizes the user input delay function of the operating system to detect the aforementioned delay time every 1 second.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, As a power control parameter, the power control unit changes the rated power limit value of the processor constituting the main control unit, namely PL1, to control the power consumption limit value, wherein PL1 is Power Limit 1.

7. A control method for an information processing device, the information processing device comprising: an input unit for receiving input from a user; and a main control unit capable of performing information processing to ensure that a set power consumption limit is not exceeded. The above control methods include: The input delay detection step involves an input delay detection unit detecting the delay time from when the input is received from the input unit to when it is output to the display unit; and In the power control step, the power control unit controls the power consumption limit value based on the delay time detected by the input delay detection step, so that the delay time falls within a specified range.

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