Abstract

A data processing system capable of specifying impeding factors that impede power savings is disclosed. The data processing system includes a central processing unit, an operation mode detection unit, and an impeding factors specifying unit. The central processing unit has multiple operation modes, and each of the operation modes has a different rate of power consumption. The operation mode detection unit detects an operation mode of the central processing unit. Based on a history of operation modes of the central processing unit that was detected by the operation mode detection unit, the impeding factors specifying unit specifies a device that considered as an impeding factor to power savings for the data processing system.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/32 - Means for saving power

Abstract

In a portable computer (100), an LED holder (150) is provided in the upper portion of an LCD (109) and an LED is attached inside the LED holder (150). Light emitted from the LED passes through an aperture provided in the bottom portion of the LED holder (150) and illuminates a keyboard (103).

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
• F21V 33/00 - Structural combinations of lighting devices with other articles, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

A computer system having four states of power management: a normal operating state, a standby state, a suspend state, and an off state. The standby state is characterized by devices, such as a video controller and a hard drive, being placed into a low-power mode transparent to the operating system and the applications executing on the computer system. The suspend state is characterized by executing code being interrupted and the state of the computer system being saved to a file on the hard drive in such a manner that system power may be removed after the state of the computer system is saved to the hard drive. Later, after system power is restored, the state of the computer system is resumed by reading from the hard drive and loading it in such a manner that the operating system and application programs are not adversely affected. The normal operating state and the off state correspond to the typical on and off states of more conventional computer systems. The suspend/resume/standby feature is implemented at a low cost using many standard components.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/32 - Means for saving power
• G06F 11/14 - Error detection or correction of the data by redundancy in operation, e.g. by using different operation sequences leading to the same result

Abstract

This invention relates to personal computer systems and, more particularly, to such a system having security features enabling control over access to data retained in such a system. In particular, a personal computer system in accordance with this invention has a normally closed enclosure, an erasable memory element for selective activation to active and inactive states and for receiving and storing a privileged access password when in the active state, an option switch operatively connected with the erasable memory element for setting the erasable memory element to the active and inactive states, a tamper detection switch operatively connected with the erasable memory element for detecting opening of the enclosure and for clearing any stored privileged access password from the erasable memory element in response to any switching of the tamper switch, and a system processor operatively connected with the erasable memory element for controlling access to at least certain levels of data stored within the system by distinguishing between the active and inactive states of the memory element and between entry and non-entry of any stored privileged access password.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 12/14 - Protection against unauthorised use of memory
• G06F 21/00 - Security arrangements for protecting computers, components thereof, programs or data against unauthorised activity