Power management circuit and control method
By introducing a power conversion module, an enable module, and a switch module into the power management circuit of a laptop, and utilizing the differences in device mounting methods, the switching between low-power and fast-response modes is achieved. This solves the problem that existing technologies cannot meet the needs of different users and realizes a flexible power management solution.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing laptop power management solutions cannot achieve switching between low-power mode and fast response mode on the same power management circuit, making it difficult to meet the differentiated needs of different users.
By introducing a power conversion module, an enable module, and a switching module into the power management circuit, the switching between low-power mode and fast response mode can be achieved by utilizing different device mounting methods. The power conversion module supplies power to the embedded controller, and the switching module controls the power supply path of the functional modules according to the signal from the enable module, thus meeting user needs.
Based on the same power management circuit, it realizes flexible switching between low power mode and fast response mode to meet the different needs of different users, reduce power consumption in power off/standby mode and improve wake-up speed.
Smart Images
Figure CN122172951A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of switching power supply management technology, and in particular to a power management circuit and control method. Background Technology
[0002] In everyday user scenarios, laptops spend a significant amount of time in shutdown and standby states. The system needs to maintain extremely low power consumption while retaining essential wake-up functions (such as keyboard power-on and Wake-on-LAN). In practice, different users have different needs: some users seek multiple wake-up methods and faster wake-up speeds to shorten system recovery time; others focus on reducing power consumption during shutdown / standby while retaining basic wake-up functionality, thus minimizing energy consumption.
[0003] In existing laptop power management solutions, the 3.3V power supply is usually directly output by the power management chip (such as the Buck circuit) on the motherboard and continuously powers the embedded controller (EC) and functional modules such as solid-state drives (M.2) and wireless network cards, resulting in significantly higher power consumption in the power-off / standby state.
[0004] Traditional power management circuits, if customized to low-power or fast-response versions according to user needs, require redesign, modification, or separate development. They cannot achieve switching between low-power and fast-response modes simply by installing or not installing components on the same power management circuit, making it difficult to meet the differentiated needs of different users. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides a power management circuit and control method to achieve the switching between low-power mode and fast response mode based solely on whether or not a device is installed, on the same power management circuit, thereby meeting the differentiated needs of different users.
[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a power management circuit, including:
[0007] A power conversion module is used to receive the main input power and convert the main input power into a voltage to output a supply voltage;
[0008] The power conversion module is connected to the embedded controller and is used to supply power to the embedded controller through the supply voltage;
[0009] The enable module is connected to the power conversion module and is powered by the power supply voltage output by the power conversion module. It is used to output an enable signal in response to power state switching operations according to its own circuit connection method.
[0010] A switching module, connected to the power conversion module and the enable module respectively, is used to output or stop outputting the power supply voltage according to the enable signal output by the enable module; the power supply voltage output by the switching module is used to supply power to the functional module.
[0011] Optionally, the enabling module is configured to output an enabling signal in response to a power state switching operation, depending on its own circuit connection method, specifically including:
[0012] If the circuit connection of the enabling module is normally open, it will output a first-level enabling signal in response to the system power-on operation.
[0013] Optionally, the enabling module is configured to output an enabling signal in response to a power state switching operation, depending on its own circuit connection method, specifically including:
[0014] If the circuit connection method of the enabling module is a power-saving mode, then when the system is powered on,
[0015] When the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, it outputs a first-level enable signal;
[0016] When the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, it outputs a second-level enable signal.
[0017] Optionally, the enabling module includes a response unit and a detection unit;
[0018] The output of the response unit is connected to the input of the detection unit; the output of the detection unit is connected to the input of the switch module.
[0019] The response unit is used to output a response signal in response to a power state switching operation.
[0020] The detection unit is used to output the enable signal based on the response signal.
[0021] Optionally, the detection unit includes a first switching transistor, a second switching transistor, a first resistor, and a second resistor;
[0022] The first terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the first terminal of the first resistor and the input terminal of the switching module; the second terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to ground; the third terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the first terminal of the second switching transistor and the first terminal of the second resistor; the third terminal of the first switching transistor serves as the second input terminal of the detection unit; the second terminal of the second switching transistor is grounded; the third terminal of the second switching transistor serves as the first input terminal of the detection unit; the second terminals of the first resistor and the second resistor are connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module.
[0023] Optionally, the response unit includes a first response subunit and a second response subunit;
[0024] The first response subunit is connected to the detection unit. When the first response subunit device is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enable module is set to the normally open mode.
[0025] The first response subunit is used to receive the main input power supply and output a first level response signal;
[0026] The second response subunit is connected to the embedded controller and the detection unit. When the first response subunit device is not installed and the second response subunit device is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enabling module is the power saving mode.
[0027] The second response subunit is used to output the response signal according to the power latch signal output by the embedded controller.
[0028] Optionally, the first response subunit includes: a third resistor, a first diode, and a first capacitor;
[0029] The first end of the third resistor is connected to the main input power supply; the second end of the third resistor is connected to the anode of the first diode; the cathode of the first diode is connected to the first end of the first capacitor and the first input terminal of the detection unit; the second end of the first capacitor is connected to ground.
[0030] Optionally, the second response subunit includes a fourth resistor and a second diode;
[0031] The first end of the fourth resistor is connected to the anode of the second diode and the output terminal of the embedded controller; the second end of the fourth resistor is connected to the cathode of the second diode and the first input terminal of the detection unit.
[0032] Optionally, the enabling module further includes: a button triggering unit;
[0033] The button triggering unit is connected to the power button, the embedded controller, and the detection unit;
[0034] The button triggering unit is used to respond to the triggering operation of the power button and output a power state switching signal;
[0035] The embedded controller is also configured to output the power latch signal according to the power state switching signal.
[0036] Optionally, the button triggering unit includes a fifth resistor, a sixth resistor, a third diode, and a fourth diode;
[0037] The first end of the fifth resistor is connected to the output end of the power button; the second end of the fifth resistor is connected to the cathode of the third diode and the cathode of the fourth diode; the anode of the third diode is connected to the second input end of the detection unit.
[0038] The anode of the fourth diode is connected to the first terminal of the sixth resistor and the input terminal of the embedded controller; the second terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module.
[0039] Optionally, the switching module includes a third switching transistor, a fourth switching transistor, and a seventh resistor;
[0040] The first terminal of the third switch is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module and the first terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the third switch is a voltage output terminal; the third terminal of the third switch is connected to the first terminal of the fourth switch and the second terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the fourth switch is connected to ground; the third terminal of the fourth switch is connected to the output terminal of the enable module.
[0041] In a second aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a power management circuit, based on the power management circuit as described in any of the first aspects, comprising:
[0042] When the circuit connection mode of the enabling module is in power-saving mode, the power latch signal is output in response to the power state switching operation. When the power latch signal is output in response to the power saving mode, the enabling signal is output, so that the switching module outputs or stops outputting the power supply voltage according to the enabling signal.
[0043] Optionally, the output of the power latch signal in response to the power state switching operation specifically includes:
[0044] If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, then a first-level power latch signal is output.
[0045] If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, a second-level power latch signal is output.
[0046] The power management circuit and control method provided in this application embodiment directly power the embedded controller with the supply voltage generated by the power conversion module to maintain the minimum operating power consumption of the embedded controller and meet the user's requirement for one-button power-on functionality. A switching module is added to the power supply path between the supply voltage and the functional modules. The enable module, based on its own circuit connection, responds to the power state switching operation and outputs an enable signal to the switching module, thus turning on or off the power supply to the functional modules. Based on the same power management circuit, switching between low-power mode and fast-response mode can be achieved simply by checking whether the device is installed. When the system is powered off or in standby mode, the power supply to the functional modules can be maintained or disconnected as needed by the user, thereby quickly adapting to the differentiated needs of different users. Attached Figure Description
[0047] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.
[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a power state transition;
[0049] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a power management circuit for a laptop computer.
[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a power management circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second power management circuit provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0052] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an enabling module provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0053] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second enabling module provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third enabling module provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0055] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a power management circuit provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0056] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0057] 1-Power conversion module; 2-Enable module; 3-Switch module; 21-Detection unit; 22-Response unit; 23-First response sub-unit; 24-Second response sub-unit; 25-Button trigger unit.
[0058] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0059] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.
[0060] It should be noted that the user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties. Furthermore, the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, disclosure, and application of the relevant data all comply with the relevant laws, regulations, and standards of the relevant regions, have taken necessary confidentiality measures, do not violate public order and good morals, and provide corresponding operation portals for users to choose to authorize or refuse.
[0061] Laptops, as portable computing devices, are widely used in office, education, and entertainment scenarios. In daily user scenarios, a significant amount of time is spent in the shutdown and standby states of laptops. The system needs to maintain extremely low power consumption while retaining necessary wake-up functions (such as keyboard power-on and Wake-on-LAN).
[0062] In actual use, different users have different needs: some users pursue multiple wake-up methods and faster wake-up speed to shorten system recovery time; while other users are more concerned with reducing power consumption during shutdown / standby while retaining basic wake-up functions, thereby reducing energy consumption.
[0063] In existing laptop power management solutions, the 3.3V power supply is usually directly output by the power management chip (such as the Buck circuit) on the motherboard and continuously powers the embedded controller (EC) and functional modules such as solid-state drives (M.2) and wireless network cards, resulting in significantly higher power consumption in the power-off / standby state.
[0064] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a power state transition, such as... Figure 1As shown, the power states of a computer system can be divided into several levels, including mechanical shutdown state G3 (G3 state), operating state S0 (S0 state), sleep state S3 (S3 state), and soft shutdown state S5 (S5 state). The system further subdivides the soft shutdown state S5 into battery-powered shutdown state DC S5 and AC-powered shutdown state AC S5, depending on whether the power adapter is plugged in. Transitions between these states can occur under different conditions.
[0065] When a computer system is working normally, the system is in working state S0. At this time, the CPU, memory, and peripherals are all working.
[0066] When a user triggers the computer system to sleep, the sleep control signal is set to a valid low level SLP_S3#=0, and the system switches from the working state S0 to the sleep state S3. At this time, the memory maintains self-refresh power supply, while the power supply to the CPU and most peripherals is disconnected.
[0067] When the user performs a shutdown operation, the system enters the soft shutdown state S5. At this time, the computer has been "shut down" through the operating system, but the power cord is still connected, and some circuits on the motherboard, such as those supporting keyboard / mouse power-on and Wake-on-LAN, remain in standby mode.
[0068] The soft shutdown state S5 is the state after the user normally shuts down the device. In this state, the 3.3V power is usually always on, and the user can wake up the device through the keyboard, fingerprint button, etc. The system wake-up speed is fast.
[0069] Both G3 and S5 states are power-off states, but G3 state only retains the ability to trigger power-on with extremely low power consumption. In G3 state, power to peripherals such as the SSD, wireless network card, USB devices, and keyboard is cut off, and power is only supplied to the embedded controller. In this state, functions such as network wake-up, USB device wake-up, and keyboard wake-up are no longer supported; only the power button power-on function is retained, resulting in even lower power-off power consumption.
[0070] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a power management circuit for a laptop computer, such as... Figure 2 As shown,
[0071] The adapter is connected to the Type-C interface, and the PD chip generates the system's main input power (+VPWR_IN). The main input power +VPWR_IN is converted into 3.3V power (+V3P3A) through the power conversion chip. The 3.3V power +V3P3A directly powers the embedded controller (EC), solid-state drive (M.2), wireless network card and other functional modules, resulting in significantly higher power consumption in the power-off / standby state.
[0072] Traditional power management circuits, if customized to low-power or fast-response versions according to user needs, require redesign, modification, or separate development. They cannot achieve switching between low-power and fast-response modes simply by installing or not installing components on the same power management circuit, making it difficult to meet the differentiated needs of different users.
[0073] Based on the above scenarios, it is clear that how to switch between low-power mode and fast response mode simply by whether or not a device is installed, on the same power management circuit, has become a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved in order to quickly meet the differentiated needs of different users.
[0074] In view of this, this application provides a power management circuit in which the 3.3V power generated by the power conversion module directly powers the embedded controller to maintain the minimum operating power consumption of the embedded controller and meet the user's requirement for one-button power-on functionality. A switching module is added to the power supply path between the 3.3V power supply and the functional module. The enable module, according to its own circuit connection method, responds to the power state switching operation and outputs an enable signal to the switching module, thereby maintaining power supply to the functional module or disconnecting the power supply to the functional module when the system is powered off or in standby mode. Based on the same power management circuit, switching between low-power mode and fast response mode is achieved only by whether the device is installed, which can quickly meet the differentiated needs of different users.
[0075] The technical solution of this application and how the technical solution of this application solves the above-mentioned technical problems are described in detail below with specific embodiments. These specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments. The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0076] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a power management circuit provided in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the power management circuit includes a power conversion module 1, an enable module 2, and a switch module 3.
[0077] The power conversion module 1 is a circuit module that can realize voltage conversion, such as a Buck step-down circuit.
[0078] The power conversion module 1 may include a power conversion chip that outputs a power supply voltage that directly powers the embedded controller and powers the functional modules through the switch module 3.
[0079] Alternatively, the power conversion module 1 may include two power conversion chips. One power conversion chip with extremely low power consumption generates a standby power supply voltage to power the embedded controller; the other power conversion chip generates the system power supply voltage as the main power supply and powers the functional modules through the switching module 3. This application does not limit the structure of the power conversion module 1.
[0080] Enable module 2 is a circuit module that can output corresponding high-level or low-level signals based on its own circuit connection method and the received trigger signal.
[0081] Switch module 3 is a circuit module that can be turned on or off based on high-level or low-level signals.
[0082] Power conversion module 1 receives the main input power and converts it into a voltage before outputting a supply voltage. The main input power can be provided by a power adapter or a laptop battery. The main input power can be, for example, 12V or 5V. The supply voltage output by power conversion module 1 can be, for example, 3.3V.
[0083] The power conversion module 1 is connected to the embedded controller and is used to power the embedded controller with the supply voltage.
[0084] Enable module 2 is connected to power conversion module 1 and is powered by the power supply voltage output by power conversion module 1. It is used to respond to power state switching operations and output enable signals according to its own circuit connection method.
[0085] The switch module 3 is connected to the power conversion module 1 and the enable module 2 respectively, and is used to output or stop the output power supply voltage according to the enable signal output by the enable module 2; the power supply voltage output by the switch module 3 is used to supply power to the functional modules.
[0086] Functional modules can be peripheral modules that can perform corresponding functions, such as solid-state drives, wireless network cards, USB devices, keyboards, etc.
[0087] The power conversion module 1 supplies power to the embedded controller via the power supply voltage. Even when the system is in the G3 mechanical shutdown state or the S5 soft shutdown state, the power supply voltage output by the power management module can provide the embedded controller with a minimum standby power supply, enabling it to continuously monitor wake-up events.
[0088] For example, if the circuit connection of the enable module 2 is normally open, it will output a first-level enable signal in response to the system power-on operation.
[0089] Normally open mode refers to the connection method in which the circuit enabling module 2 continuously supplies power to the functional module when the main input power is connected. For example, the circuit connection method of enabling module 2 can be set by whether or not the device is installed.
[0090] With the circuit connection method being normally open, switch module 3 is continuously conducting, and the functional modules are continuously powered, enabling functions such as network wake-up, USB device wake-up, and keyboard wake-up. It features fast wake-up speed and short system recovery time.
[0091] If the circuit connection of enable module 2 is in power-saving mode, then when the system is powered on, when the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, the first level enable signal is output.
[0092] When the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, it outputs a second-level enable signal.
[0093] Power-saving methods refer to the connection methods that supply power to functional modules when the system is in operation and disconnect the power supply to functional modules when the system is not in operation. For example, the circuit connection method of enabling module 2 can be configured by whether or not the device is installed.
[0094] The first voltage level can be either high or low, and the second voltage level can be either low or high. This application's embodiment uses a high voltage level as an example and a low voltage level as an example for illustrative purposes.
[0095] When the system is in power-off / standby mode, a user pressing the power button, turning on the screen, or entering a fingerprint indicates that the system needs to enter working mode. At this time, an enable signal of the first level is output, switching module 3 is turned on, thereby restoring power to the functional modules and enabling the system to work normally.
[0096] When the computer is powered on, user actions such as pressing the power button, closing the screen, clicking the power off button, or clicking the standby button indicate that the system needs to enter a non-working state. At this time, a second-level enable signal is output, switching module 3 is turned off, cutting off power to the functional modules and reducing system power consumption. The laptop's power consumption in power-off / standby scenarios can be below 500mW.
[0097] When the switch module 3 continuously outputs power supply voltage, the user can wake up the device using the keyboard, fingerprint button, etc., and the system wake-up speed is fast.
[0098] When the system needs to enter a non-working state, the switch module 3 cuts off the power supply to the functional modules to reduce system power consumption; and when the system enters a working state, it restores the power supply to the functional modules to enable the system to work normally.
[0099] When the circuit connection is in power-saving mode, the power supply of the functional modules can be dynamically controlled according to the user's operation, realizing the switching between low power consumption and normal operation state, and reducing the power consumption of the system in the power-off / standby state.
[0100] In summary, the power management circuit provided in this application provides a power supply voltage generated by the power conversion module that directly powers the embedded controller to maintain its minimum operating power consumption and meet the user's requirement for one-button power-on functionality. A switching module is added to the power supply path between the power supply voltage and the functional modules. The enable module, based on its circuit connection, responds to power state switching operations by outputting an enable signal to the switching module, thus turning the power supply to the functional modules on or off. Based on the same power management circuit, switching between low-power mode and fast-response mode can be achieved simply by checking whether a device is installed. When the system is powered off or in standby mode, the power supply to the functional modules can be maintained or disconnected as needed, thereby quickly adapting to the diverse needs of different users.
[0101] It should be understood that the power management circuit provided in this application embodiment can be used to manage the 3.3V power supply of a laptop computer. Figure 3 The embodiments provided here are merely illustrative examples of units in a power management circuit relevant to this application. The embodiments of this application only provide illustrative descriptions of functions related to this application. In specific implementations, whether the power management circuit has other units or other functions is not limited in the embodiments of this application.
[0102] The structure of the switch module is described below.
[0103] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second power management circuit provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the switching module 3 includes a third switching transistor Q3, a fourth switching transistor Q4, and a seventh resistor R7;
[0104] The third switch Q3 and the fourth switch Q4 can be transistors that are turned on or off based on high or low level signals, such as any of the following: triode, MOSFET, thyristor, etc.
[0105] The first terminal of the third switch Q3 is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module 1 and the first terminal of the seventh resistor R7; the second terminal of the third switch Q3 is the voltage output terminal; the third terminal of the third switch Q3 is connected to the first terminal of the fourth switch Q4 and the second terminal of the seventh resistor R7; the second terminal of the fourth switch Q4 is connected to ground; the third terminal of the fourth switch Q4 is connected to the output terminal of the enable module 2.
[0106] Figure 4 The following is an example illustrating the process using a PMOS transistor as the third switch Q3 and an NMOS transistor as the fourth switch. The first terminal of the third switch Q3 is the source, the second terminal is the drain, and the third terminal is the gate; the first terminal of the fourth switch Q4 is the drain, the second terminal is the source, and the third terminal is the gate.
[0107] The power management module (Buck power chip) receives the main input power +VPWR_IN, performs voltage conversion, and outputs the supply voltage +V3P3_DSW. The supply voltage +V3P3_DSW directly powers the embedded controller.
[0108] The power management module is generated by the step-down DC-DC converter U1 and its peripheral circuits.
[0109] The input terminal (IN pin) of U20 is connected to the main power input (+VPWR_IN), and the output terminal (OUT pin) is connected to the feedback pin (BP) through a voltage divider network composed of resistors R11 and R12 to set the output voltage value. When R11 is 187KΩ and R12 is 100KΩ, the output voltage is calculated to be 3.55V according to the formula VOUT=1.24×(1+R11 / R12). After being stepped down by diode D11, a stable 3.3V supply voltage (+V3P3_DSW) is formed. Capacitors C11 and C12 are used for input and output filtering, respectively, to ensure the stability of the power supply.
[0110] When enable module 2 outputs a high-level enable signal V3P3A_EN, the fourth switch Q4 and the third switch Q3 are turned on, outputting the power supply voltage +V3P3A and restoring the power supply to the function module.
[0111] When enable module 2 outputs a low-level enable signal V3P3A_EN, the fourth switch Q4 is turned off, the third switch Q3 is turned off, the output power supply voltage +V3P3A is stopped, and the power supply to the functional module is cut off.
[0112] This method uses the fourth switch Q4 to control the third switch Q3 to turn on or off, which can realize the on / off control of the main power supply path on the high-voltage side with a low-voltage small signal. The circuit structure is simple, the control is reliable, and the power consumption is low.
[0113] The structure of the enabling module is described below.
[0114] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an enabling module provided in an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the enabling module 2 includes a response unit 22 and a detection unit 21;
[0115] The response unit 22 can be a circuit unit that can output a high-level / low-level signal in response to a power state switching operation.
[0116] The detection unit 21 can be a circuit unit that can output a corresponding high-level / low-level signal according to the input high-level / low-level signal, such as an inverter, a buffer, or any other such unit.
[0117] The output of the response unit 22 is connected to the input of the detection unit 21; the output of the detection unit 21 is connected to the input of the switch module 3.
[0118] Response unit 22 is used to output a response signal in response to power state switching operation;
[0119] The detection unit 21 is used to output an enable signal based on the response signal.
[0120] For example, when the circuit connection is normally open, the response unit 22 can respond to the system power-on operation by outputting a high-level response signal;
[0121] When the circuit connection is in power-saving mode, the power state switching operation characterization system outputs a high-level response signal when it needs to enter the working state; and outputs a low-level response signal when it needs to enter the non-working state.
[0122] When the detection unit 21 receives a high-level response signal, it outputs a high-level enable signal; and when it receives a low-level response signal, it outputs a low-level enable signal.
[0123] The response unit 22 is used to respond to power state switching operations and outputs a corresponding response signal, which can reflect the user's current operating intention and the system's working status requirements. The detection unit 21 receives the response signal output by the response unit 22, performs level processing on the response signal, and outputs a corresponding enable signal, which can control the switching module 3 to be turned on or off.
[0124] By dividing the enable module 2 into a response unit 22 and a detection unit 21, the response to user operations and the processing of level signals can be realized respectively. The structure is clear, the control logic is well-defined, and the stability of the system is improved.
[0125] The structure of the detection unit is described below.
[0126] Continue as Figure 5 As shown, the detection unit 21 includes a first switch Q1, a second switch Q2, a first resistor R1, and a second resistor R2;
[0127] The third switch Q3 and the fourth switch Q4 can be transistors that are turned on or off based on high or low level signals, such as any of the following: triode, MOSFET, thyristor, etc.
[0128] The first terminal of the first switch Q1 is connected to the first terminal of the first resistor R1 and the input terminal of the switch module 3; the second terminal of the first switch Q1 is connected to ground; the third terminal of the first switch Q1 is connected to the first terminal of the second switch Q2 and the first terminal of the second resistor R2; the third terminal of the first switch Q1 serves as the second input terminal of the detection unit 21; the second terminal of the second switch Q2 is grounded; the third terminal of the second switch Q2 serves as the first input terminal of the detection unit; the second terminals of the first resistor R1 and the second terminals of the second resistor R2 are connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module 1.
[0129] The first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 can be used as level shifters or inverters to convert the voltage of the main input power supply to a voltage that is compatible with subsequent modules.
[0130] Figure 5 The following is an illustration using an example where both the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 are NMOS transistors. The first terminal of the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 is the drain, the second terminal is the source, and the third terminal is the gate.
[0131] When the response unit 22 outputs a high-level signal, the second switch Q2 is turned on, the first switch Q1 is turned off, and a high-level enable signal V3P3A_EN is output to the switch module 3.
[0132] When the response unit 22 outputs a low-level signal, the second switch Q2 is turned off, the first switch Q1 is turned on, and a low-level enable signal V3P3A_EN is output to the switch module 3.
[0133] The detection unit 21 uses general-purpose analog devices, has a simple structure, and is easy to implement.
[0134] Furthermore, the detection unit 21 may also include a switching transistor Q5, which is connected in parallel with a second switching transistor Q2. This results in lower on-resistance, less heat generation, and the ability to turn on or off the high-power power supply path, thereby improving the operational stability of the power management circuit.
[0135] The structure of the response unit is described below.
[0136] Continue as Figure 5 As shown, the response unit 22 includes a first response subunit 23 and a second response subunit 24;
[0137] The first response subunit 23 is connected to the detection unit 21. When the first response subunit 23 is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enable module 2 is normally open.
[0138] The first response subunit 23 is used to receive the main input power supply and output a first level response signal;
[0139] The second response subunit 24 is connected to the embedded controller and the detection unit 21. When the first response subunit 23 is not installed and the second response subunit 24 is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enable module 2 is set to power saving mode.
[0140] The second response subunit 24 is used to output a response signal based on the power latch signal output by the embedded controller.
[0141] The embedded controller can respond to power button trigger signals, screen opening and closing trigger signals, fingerprint module trigger signals, etc., and output power latch signals.
[0142] It should be understood that when the first response subunit 23 is installed, the second response subunit 24 may not be installed, and the signal received by the detection unit 21 is the response signal output by the first response subunit 23. This method is easy to implement. Alternatively, the second response subunit 24 may be installed. In this case, the embedded controller can be controlled to stop outputting signals to the detection unit 21, and the signal received by the detection unit 21 will still be the response signal output by the first response subunit 23. In this embodiment, there is no limitation on whether the second response subunit 24 is installed when the first response subunit 23 is installed.
[0143] When the first response subunit 23 is installed, it can establish a circuit path between the main input power supply and the detection unit 21, setting the circuit connection mode of the enable module 2 to normally open. When the main input power supply is connected, the first response subunit 23 provides continuous power to the functional modules, supporting functions such as network wake-up, USB device wake-up, and keyboard wake-up. It offers fast wake-up speed and short system recovery time.
[0144] When the first response subunit 23 is not installed and the second response subunit 24 is installed, the circuit path between the embedded controller and the detection unit 21 can be established, allowing the circuit connection mode of the enable module 2 to be set to power-saving mode. When the power latch signal output by the embedded controller is high, the second response subunit 24 outputs a first-level response signal to restore power to the functional module, allowing the system to operate normally. When the power latch signal output by the embedded controller is low, the second response subunit 24 outputs a second-level response signal to cut off power to the functional module, reducing system power consumption.
[0145] By determining whether the first response subunit 23 and the second response subunit 24 are installed, switching between low-power mode and fast response mode can be achieved on the same power management circuit, which can quickly meet the differentiated needs of different users.
[0146] The structures of the first response subunit and the second response subunit are described below.
[0147] (a) First Response Subunit
[0148] The first response subunit 23 includes: a third resistor R3, a first diode D1, and a first capacitor C1;
[0149] The first end of the third resistor R3 is connected to the main input power supply +VPWR_IN; the second end of the third resistor R3 is connected to the anode of the first diode D1; the cathode of the first diode D1 is connected to the first end of the first capacitor C1 and the first input terminal of the detection unit 21; the second end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to ground.
[0150] The first response subunit 23 uses general-purpose analog devices, has a simple structure, and is easy to implement.
[0151] Furthermore, the first response subunit 23 may also include a resistor R8, with its first end connected to the cathode of the first diode D1 and its second end connected to ground. Resistor R8 and the third resistor R3 divide the main input power supply +VPWR_IN and output the voltage to the detection unit 21, matching the operating voltage of the detection unit 21. Resistor R8 and the first capacitor C1 form an RC filter to stabilize the output signal of the first response subunit 23.
[0152] (ii) Second Response Subunit
[0153] The second response subunit 24 includes a fourth resistor R4 and a second diode D2;
[0154] The first end of the fourth resistor R4 is connected to the anode of the second diode D2 and the output terminal of the embedded controller; the second end of the fourth resistor R4 is connected to the cathode of the second diode D2 and the first input terminal of the detection unit 21.
[0155] The second response subunit 24 uses general-purpose analog devices, has a simple structure, and is easy to implement.
[0156] Continue as Figure 5 As shown, the enabling module 2 further includes a button triggering unit 25;
[0157] The button triggering unit 25 is connected to the power button, the embedded controller and the detection unit 21;
[0158] The button triggering unit 25 is used to respond to the triggering operation of the power button and output a power state switching signal;
[0159] The embedded controller is also used to switch signals based on power state and output power latch signals.
[0160] For example, a low-level signal is output when the power button is pressed, and a high-level signal is output when the power button is released.
[0161] When the power button is pressed, a low-level trigger signal PWRBTN_IN_N is output to the button triggering unit 25; the button triggering unit 25 outputs a low-level power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC; the embedded controller receives the low-level power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC. If the current state is power-on, pressing the power button can trigger the system to power off / standby, and the embedded controller outputs a low-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH to cut off the power supply to the functional module. If the current state is power-off / standby, pressing the power button triggers the system to enter the working state, and the embedded controller outputs a high-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH to turn on the power supply to the functional module.
[0162] The button triggering unit 25 receives the level signal output by the power button and outputs a corresponding level signal to the embedded controller, enabling the embedded controller to accurately identify the power button state and then output a corresponding control signal to the control unit, thereby turning on or off the power supply to the functional module.
[0163] The structure of the button trigger unit is described below.
[0164] The button trigger unit 25 includes a fifth resistor R5, a sixth resistor R6, a third diode D3, and a fourth diode D4;
[0165] The first end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to the power button; the second end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to the cathode of the third diode D3 and the cathode of the fourth diode D4; the anode of the third diode D3 is connected to the second input terminal of the detection unit 21.
[0166] The anode of the fourth diode D4 is connected to the first terminal of the sixth resistor R6 and the input terminal of the embedded controller; the second terminal of the sixth resistor R6 is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module 1.
[0167] The fifth resistor R5 and the third diode D3 provide current limiting and backflash protection. The fourth diode D4 prevents voltage reverse flow and electrostatic discharge, improving the operational stability of the power management circuit.
[0168] The working principles of the 3.3V power supply for shutting down the function module in power-off / standby scenarios and the normally open 3.3V power supply are explained below.
[0169] (a) 3.3V power supply for normally open function modules in power-off / standby scenarios
[0170] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second enabling module provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 6 As shown, the third resistor R3, the first diode D1, and the first capacitor C1 are installed, while the fourth resistor R4 and the second diode D2 are not installed.
[0171] like Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when the adapter or Type-C power supply is plugged in, the main input power +VPWR_IN is connected, the second switch Q2 is turned on, the first switch Q1 is turned off, and the enable signal V3P3A_EN is high; the fourth switch Q4 is turned on, the third switch Q3 is turned on, and the power supply voltage +V3P3A is continuously output. The power supply voltage +V3P3A can be used to power functional modules such as solid-state drives, wireless network cards, USB devices, and keyboards.
[0172] In this mode, when the system is in a power-off / standby state, it can support functions such as network wake-up, USB device wake-up, and keyboard wake-up, with fast wake-up speed and short system recovery time.
[0173] (ii) 3.3V power supply for shutting down the function module in power-off / standby scenarios
[0174] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third enabling module provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the third resistor R3, the first diode D1, and the first capacitor C1 are not installed, while the fourth resistor R4 and the second diode D2 are installed.
[0175] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, when an adapter or Type-C power supply is plugged in, the +V3P3A power supply voltage is not directly output. The +V3P3A power supply voltage is turned on or off depending on the system's power-on, power-off / standby operation.
[0176] 1. When the system performs a power-on operation from a power-off / standby state.
[0177] The system is powered by AC / DC, with the main input power +VPWR_IN connected. When the user presses the power button, the trigger signal PWRBTN_IN_N goes low; the power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC goes low; when the embedded controller detects the low-level power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC, it outputs a high-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH; the second switch Q2 turns on, the first switch Q1 turns off, and the enable signal V3P3A_EN goes high; the fourth switch Q4 turns on, the third switch Q3 turns on, and the power supply voltage +V3P3A is output, thereby powering the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, keyboard and other functional modules, and the system enters normal working state.
[0178] Alternatively, the embedded controller can achieve automatic power-on upon power-up. That is, when the system's main input power supply +VPWR_IN is connected, the supply voltage +V3P3_DSW powers the embedded controller. In response to system power-up, the embedded controller outputs a high-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH; the second switch Q2 turns on, the first switch Q1 turns off, and the enable signal V3P3A_EN is high; the fourth switch Q4 turns on, the third switch Q3 turns on, and the supply voltage +V3P3A is output, thereby powering the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, keyboard, and other functional modules, and the system enters normal operating state.
[0179] 2. When the system performs a shutdown / standby operation from normal working state.
[0180] (1) Hardware shutdown
[0181] When the user presses the power button for more than a preset time, the trigger signal PWRBTN_IN_N remains at a low level for the preset time; the power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC also remains at a low level for the preset time; when the embedded controller detects the low-level signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC for the preset time, it can notify the BIOS to control the PCH or CPU to shut down the system; after the system shuts down, the embedded controller outputs a low-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH; the second switch Q2 is turned off, the first switch Q1 is turned on, and the enable signal V3P3A_EN is low; the fourth switch Q4 is turned off, the third switch Q3 is turned off, cutting off the power supply voltage +V3P3A, thereby cutting off the power supply to the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, keyboard and other functional modules, and the system enters a low-power state.
[0182] (2) Software shutdown
[0183] The user triggers the system's shutdown / standby operation via the keyboard or mouse. The embedded controller, based on the received command, shuts down the system according to the shutdown sequence. The embedded controller outputs a low-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH; the second switch Q2 is turned off, the first switch Q1 is turned on, and the enable signal V3P3A_EN is low; the fourth switch Q4 is turned off, and the third switch Q3 is turned off, cutting off the supply voltage +V3P3A, thereby cutting off power to functional modules such as the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, and keyboard, and the system enters a low-power state.
[0184] This application also provides a control method for a power management circuit. Based on the power management circuit described above, the execution subject of this method can be, for example, an embedded controller or an electronic device equipped with an embedded controller. This application uses an embedded controller as an example for illustration.
[0185] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a control method for a power management circuit provided in an embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 8 As shown, the method may include, for example, the following steps:
[0186] S801, responds to the power state switching operation and outputs a power latch signal so that when the circuit connection mode of the enabling module 2 is in power saving mode, it responds to the power latch signal and outputs an enable signal, so that the switching module 3 outputs or stops outputting the power supply voltage according to the enable signal.
[0187] For example, an embedded controller can monitor power state switching operations in real time. For instance, when the device is powered on, if the user presses the power button for more than a preset duration, the trigger signal PWRBTN_IN_N remains at a low level for the preset duration; the power state switching signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC also remains at a low level for the preset duration; when the embedded controller detects the low-level signal PWRBTN_IN_N_EC for the preset duration, it can notify the BIOS to control the PCH or CPU to shut down the system; after the system shuts down, the embedded controller outputs a low-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH.
[0188] If the circuit connection of enable module 2 is in power-saving mode, it outputs a low-level enable signal V3P3A_EN, and switch module 3 stops outputting the power supply voltage +V3P3A. This cuts off the power supply to functional modules such as the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, and keyboard, thereby reducing power consumption.
[0189] When the user triggers the power-on operation in the power-off / standby state, the embedded controller outputs a high-level power latch signal EC_PWR_LATCH.
[0190] If the circuit connection of enable module 2 is in power-saving mode, it outputs a high-level enable signal V3P3A_EN, and switch module 3 outputs the power supply voltage +V3P3A. This powers the solid-state drive, wireless network card, USB devices, keyboard, and other functional modules, allowing the system to operate normally.
[0191] Furthermore, in response to a power state switching operation, a power latch signal is output, specifically including:
[0192] If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, then the first level power latch signal is output.
[0193] If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, then a second-level power latch signal is output.
[0194] For example, when the system is in power-off / standby mode, and the user performs a power state switching operation such as pressing the power button, turning on the screen, or entering a fingerprint, it indicates that the system needs to enter the working state. At this time, an enable signal of the first level is output, the switch module 3 is turned on, thereby restoring power to the functional modules and enabling the system to work normally.
[0195] When the system is powered on, user actions such as pressing the power button, closing the screen, clicking the power off button, or clicking the standby button indicate that the system needs to enter a non-working state. At this time, a second-level enable signal is output, switching module 3 is turned off, cutting off power to the functional modules and reducing system power consumption.
[0196] When the circuit connection is in power-saving mode, the power supply of the functional modules can be dynamically controlled according to the user's operation, realizing the switching between low power consumption and normal operation state, and reducing the power consumption of the system in the power-off / standby state.
[0197] In summary, the power management circuit control method provided in this application, by outputting a power latch signal in response to a power state switching operation, enables the enabling module to output an enable signal in response to the power latch signal when the circuit connection mode is in power-saving mode. This allows the switching module to output or stop outputting the power supply voltage according to the enable signal. The power supply to the functional module is only closed when the embedded controller receives a specific enable signal, thereby reducing the system's power consumption in power-off / standby states.
[0198] Finally, it should be noted that other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein, and is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A power management circuit, characterized in that, include: A power conversion module is used to receive the main input power and convert the main input power into a voltage to output a supply voltage; The power conversion module is connected to the embedded controller and is used to supply power to the embedded controller through the supply voltage; The enable module is connected to the power conversion module and is powered by the power supply voltage output by the power conversion module. It is used to output an enable signal in response to power state switching operations according to its own circuit connection method. A switching module, connected to the power conversion module and the enable module respectively, is used to output or stop outputting the power supply voltage according to the enable signal output by the enable module; the power supply voltage output by the switching module is used to supply power to the functional module.
2. The power management circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The enabling module is used to output an enabling signal in response to a power state switching operation, based on its own circuit connection method, specifically including: If the circuit connection of the enabling module is normally open, it will output a first-level enabling signal in response to the system power-on operation.
3. The power management circuit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The enabling module is used to output an enabling signal in response to a power state switching operation, based on its own circuit connection method, specifically including: If the circuit connection method of the enabling module is a power-saving mode, then when the system is powered on, When the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, it outputs a first-level enable signal; When the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, it outputs a second-level enable signal.
4. The power management circuit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The enabling module includes a response unit and a detection unit; The output of the response unit is connected to the input of the detection unit; the output of the detection unit is connected to the input of the switch module. The response unit is used to output a response signal in response to a power state switching operation. The detection unit is used to output the enable signal based on the response signal.
5. The power management circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The detection unit includes a first switching transistor, a second switching transistor, a first resistor, and a second resistor; The first terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the first terminal of the first resistor and the input terminal of the switching module; the second terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to ground; the third terminal of the first switching transistor is connected to the first terminal of the second switching transistor and the first terminal of the second resistor; the third terminal of the first switching transistor serves as the second input terminal of the detection unit; the second terminal of the second switching transistor is grounded; the third terminal of the second switching transistor serves as the first input terminal of the detection unit; the second terminals of the first resistor and the second resistor are connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module.
6. The power management circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The response unit includes a first response subunit and a second response subunit; The first response subunit is connected to the detection unit. When the first response subunit device is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enable module is set to the normally open mode. The first response subunit is used to receive the main input power supply and output a first level response signal; The second response subunit is connected to the embedded controller and the detection unit. When the first response subunit device is not installed and the second response subunit device is installed, the circuit connection mode of the enabling module is the power saving mode. The second response subunit is used to output the response signal according to the power latch signal output by the embedded controller.
7. The power management circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first response subunit includes: a third resistor, a first diode, and a first capacitor; The first end of the third resistor is connected to the main input power supply; the second end of the third resistor is connected to the anode of the first diode; the cathode of the first diode is connected to the first end of the first capacitor and the first input terminal of the detection unit; the second end of the first capacitor is connected to ground.
8. The power management circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second response subunit includes a fourth resistor and a second diode; The first end of the fourth resistor is connected to the anode of the second diode and the output terminal of the embedded controller; the second end of the fourth resistor is connected to the cathode of the second diode and the first input terminal of the detection unit.
9. The power management circuit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The enabling module further includes: a button triggering unit; The button triggering unit is connected to the power button, the embedded controller, and the detection unit; The button triggering unit is used to respond to the triggering operation of the power button and output a power state switching signal; The embedded controller is also configured to output the power latch signal according to the power state switching signal.
10. The power management circuit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The button triggering unit includes a fifth resistor, a sixth resistor, a third diode, and a fourth diode; The first end of the fifth resistor is connected to the output end of the power button; the second end of the fifth resistor is connected to the cathode of the third diode and the cathode of the fourth diode; the anode of the third diode is connected to the second input end of the detection unit. The anode of the fourth diode is connected to the first terminal of the sixth resistor and the input terminal of the embedded controller; the second terminal of the sixth resistor is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module.
11. The power management circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The switching module includes a third switching transistor, a fourth switching transistor, and a seventh resistor; The first terminal of the third switch is connected to the output terminal of the power conversion module and the first terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the third switch is a voltage output terminal; the third terminal of the third switch is connected to the first terminal of the fourth switch and the second terminal of the seventh resistor; the second terminal of the fourth switch is connected to ground; the third terminal of the fourth switch is connected to the output terminal of the enable module.
12. A control method for a power management circuit, characterized in that, Based on the power management circuit as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: When the circuit connection mode of the enabling module is in power-saving mode, the power latch signal is output in response to the power state switching operation. When the power latch signal is output in response to the power saving mode, the enabling signal is output, so that the switching module outputs or stops outputting the power supply voltage according to the enabling signal.
13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The response to the power state switching operation outputs the power latch signal, specifically including: If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter the working state, then a first-level power latch signal is output. If the power state switching operation indicates that the system needs to enter a non-working state, a second-level power latch signal is output.