Network Device Power Control for Standby Energy Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer systems with a wakeup function consume more power during standby due to active logic and components like the Ethernet adapter, exceeding environmental power standards, necessitating efficient power control methods.
Innovation Solution
A method where the embedded controller determines the network device's associated state during power saving modes and adjusts power supply accordingly, turning off power to the network device if not in use, ensuring continuous power when in an associated state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is continuously supplied to the network device during power saving mode, then the wakeup function is maintained and reliable, but standby power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply state of the network device is made dynamic rather than static. The embedded controller monitors network connection status and adjusts power supply accordingly - providing power when connected and disconnecting when not connected, thus optimizing the balance between reliability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply parameter (power on/off state) of the network device is changed based on its operational state (associated/not associated with network). This conditional parameter change allows the system to maintain wakeup functionality when needed while reducing power consumption when the network device is inactive.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If power is turned off to the network device during power saving mode, then standby power consumption is reduced, but the wakeup function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded controller uses feedback from the network connection status to determine power supply decisions. By continuously monitoring whether the network device is associated with a network and using this feedback information, the system intelligently controls power supply to balance between power savings and wakeup reliability.
3Reliability
If the network device maintains association state during power saving mode, then wakeup capability is preserved, but power consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining full power supply to the network device, the system applies partial action by providing power only when necessary (when associated with network). This selective power supply avoids excessive action (continuous power supply) while ensuring adequate action (wakeup capability when needed).
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling power in a computer system having a network device and a wakeup function is disclosed. A determination is made whether or not the network device is in an associated state at the time when the computer system moves into a power saving mode. In response to a determination that the network device is not in the associated state, power supply is turned off from a power source to the network device. In response to a determination that the network device is in the associated state, power supply is continually provided from the power source to the network device.