Remote power control via data link
AssigneeInternational Business Machines Corporation
InventorsRobert J. Gallagher, Karl H. Hoppe, Anthony J. Perri, Mark S. Styduhar, Jordan M. Taylor, Bert W. Weidle
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An inexpensive and low power consumption power control unit that does not require a separate interface or network. In the power off state only a detector and a power controller require power, this power is supplied from a power source. Upon detection of traffic a frame decoder is powered up to receive frames. When the link is quiet, the decoder is powered down while the power controller and receiver remain powered and await further traffic.
Claims11
An apparatus connecting a communication link and a host system for controlling the application of power to said host system, said apparatus comprising:
- frame decoder means for decoding power control frames to power up said host system;
- power controller means for converting power control information on said communication link into power control frames suitable for use by said frame decoder;
- and
- first power source means;
- said power controller means including means for receiving said power control information;
- power switch means for controlling the source of power to said receiving means;
- detector means connected to said receiving means;
- first control means connected to said detector means for controlling the application of power from said first power source means to said power switch means and to said frame decoder means;
- and
- second power source means for applying power to said power switch means and said detector when no information is present on said communication link;
- said detector means being capable of receiving a signal from said receiving means whenever power control information is detected on said communication link for controlling said first control means to apply power from said first power source means to activate said power switch means to apply power to said receiving means and to apply power from said first power source means to activate said frame decoder means.
An apparatus connecting a communication link and a host system for controlling the application of power to said host system, said apparatus comprising:
- frame decoder means for decoding power control frames to power up said host system;
- power controller means for converting power control information on said communication link into power control frames suitable for use by said frame decoder means;
- and
- first power source means;
- said power controller means including means for receiving said power control information;
- detector means connected to said receiving means;
- first control means connected to said detector means for controlling the application of power from said first power source means to said frame decoder means;
- and
- second power source means for applying power to said receiving means and said detector;
- said detector means being capable of receiving a signal from said receiving means whenever power control information is detected on said communication link for controlling said first control means to apply power from said first power source means to activate said frame decoder means.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.