AC Adapter Low DC Power Authorization for Safe Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems for information handling systems do not adequately prevent damage to AC adapters from excessive power draw or user shock, as they do not restrict DC power output unless an authorized device is connected, leading to potential harm and component damage.
Innovation Solution
A system that initially provides low DC power upon AC power application to communicate with the information handling system, authorizing high DC power output only upon confirmation of a proper connection, using a power communication module to verify adapter identification and enable full power output only when connected, thus reducing the risk of shock and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the AC adapter outputs high DC power immediately upon AC power application, then the power delivery capability is maximized, but the risk of user shock and adapter damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and authorization actions before enabling full power output. When AC power is applied, the adapter first outputs a limited current (e.g., 150mA) to communicate identification information to the information handling system, which then sends an authorization code back to enable full power output. This preliminary action sequence ensures that full power is only delivered to authorized devices, preventing user shock and adapter damage while maintaining maximum power delivery capability when needed.
2Loss of energy
If the AC adapter uses sensitive and expensive components to meet power conservation standards, then the idle power consumption is reduced, but the susceptibility to damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The authorization mechanism acts as a preliminary protective action that prevents full power delivery until a proper connection is confirmed. The adapter outputs only a limited identification current initially, protecting sensitive components from damage during the identification phase. Only after receiving authorization does the adapter enable full power output, ensuring that expensive components are fully utilized only when connected to a proper information handling system.
3Productivity
If the information handling system draws more power than the adapter is capable of delivering, then the system performance is improved, but the adapter may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the information handling system first receives identification information from the adapter, determines the adapter's power capabilities, and then adjusts its power draw accordingly. The adapter responds to power requests with authorization codes that confirm its capability to deliver the requested power level. This feedback loop ensures that the system never draws more power than the adapter can safely deliver, preventing adapter damage while allowing maximum performance when the adapter capability permits.
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system AC-to-DC adapter provides a low DC power output on initial application of an AC power input. The low DC power output supports communication between the adapter and the information handling system of adapter identification information. The information handling system confirms a proper connection with the adapter and sends an authorization to the adapter to output a high DC power output. The adapter monitors the connection with the information handling system to disable the high DC power output if not needed, such as if the information handling system is disconnected from the adapter or reaches a fully charged battery state.