COMPUTING DEVICE USER PRESENCE DETECTION

摘要

A computing device may detect the presence of a user after the user has not interacted with the computing device for a predetermined time period. The user may leave the device powered up, but after the predetermined time period has expired, the device enters a user detection mode from a normal operation mode such that nonessential components are powered down. A trackpad may be used to detect the presence of the user in the user detection mode. An electric field is generated by conductive plates of the trackpad. When the user extends his hand over the trackpad, sense lines in the track pad detect the interference with the electric field caused by the hand. A processor is signaled to return the device normal operation mode and restore full power to the device. A camera may be also used to detect the user's presence during the user detection mode.