Adaptive fan controller for a computer system
AssigneeHewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
InventorGregory P. Ziarnik
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A temperature control system for an electronics system minimizes fan noise as much as possible. The system, which may be a computer, is capable of implementing a plurality of temperature control protocols. Each protocol generally specifies fan speed as a function of temperature. When the system initializes, a protocol is selected that, on average, is quieter than at least one other protocol, and preferably all other protocols. The system monitors its own temperature and, if the temperature reaches a threshold, the system causes the initial temperature control protocol to be changed to a different protocol that is better able to cool the system, albeit with a resulting louder sound level.
Claims19
An electronic system, comprising:
- an electronics unit;
- a temperature control logic coupled to said electronics unit;
- and
- a fan coupled to said temperature control unit;
- wherein said temperature control unit is capable of implementing a plurality of temperature control protocols, each protocol effecting the speed of said fan;
- and
- wherein said temperature control unit implements a first temperature control protocol upon system initialization and changes to a second temperature control protocol if said electronics unit asserts a temperature signal, said first temperature control protocol being quieter on average than said second temperature control protocol.
A computer system, comprising:
- a CPU;
- a fan controller coupled to said CPU;
- and
- a fan coupled to said fan controller;
- wherein said CPU is capable of implementing a plurality of temperature control protocols, each protocol effecting the speed of said fan;
- and
- wherein said CPU implements a first temperature control protocol upon system initialization and changes to a second temperature control protocol if said electronics unit asserts a temperature signal, said first temperature control protocol being quieter on average than said second temperature control protocol.
A method of controlling temperature in an electronic system, comprising:
- (a) initializing the system to a first temperature control protocol;
- (b) determining that a temperature associated with the electronic system has reached a threshold;
- and
- (c) switching from the first temperature control protocol to a second temperature control protocol, said first temperature control protocol being quieter on average than said second temperature control protocol.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.