Voltage Regulator Slew Rate Control for Audible Noise Masking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems, particularly end-user equipment like laptops and desktops, experience audible oscillations from high-frequency electrical components, which negatively impact user experience due to the inability to effectively manage slew rates of voltage regulators.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic slew rate controller adjusts the slew rate of voltage regulators based on the operating condition of the cooling fan, using a microphone to detect audible noise and setting the slew rate to FAST/4, FAST/2, or FAST when the fan is off, partially or fully masks the noise, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the slew rate of voltage regulators is increased to improve system performance, then power delivery speed is improved, but audible oscillations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic slew rate adjustment by monitoring cooling fan operating conditions and adapting the voltage regulator slew rate accordingly. The slew rate is set to FAST/4, FAST/2, or FAST based on fan status, transforming a static parameter into a dynamic one that adapts to system conditions to minimize audible oscillations while maintaining performance when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the slew rate parameter of the voltage regulator based on detected fan operating conditions. By adjusting this critical electrical parameter dynamically, the system resolves the contradiction between maintaining high-speed power delivery and reducing audible noise, as the slew rate is modified in response to environmental acoustic conditions
2Productivity
If the slew rate is fixed at a high value for optimal performance, then power delivery is optimized, but noise control flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms by using a microphone to detect audible noise levels and cooling fan operating conditions, then using this information to adjust the voltage regulator slew rate. This closed-loop control provides both optimal power delivery and adaptive noise management, resolving the contradiction between fixed performance optimization and flexible noise control
Data Source
AI summary
An information handling system includes a cooling fan, a voltage regulator, and a slew rate controller. The voltage regulator is configurable to drive a power device with a selectable slew rate. The slew rate controller directs the voltage regulator to change the selectable slew rate in response to determining the operating condition of the cooling fan.