Software-based voltage detection to reserve device power upon shutdown
US6571343B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F1/28
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus are provided for reserving power in a handheld computer by inducing a sleep mode when the energy supply of the handheld computer reaches a predetermined low level. A software is provided which operates a sleep mode when a device of the handheld computer detects a predetermined low battery voltage. A processor operates the software to place the handheld computer in a low energy-consuming shutdown state in which an interrupt controller operates to mask those interrupt signals thus providing an user with the impression that the device has entered an unresponsive sleep mode. In maintaining the sleep mode, the processor operates such that all input signals that request the handheld computer to power up remain active but so long as the battery voltage remains below a predetermined voltage the interrupt signals to power up selected applications and devices are masked. A method for returning the handheld computer to its normal operational mode once the energy supply has been replenished, is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.