COMPUTING DEVICE USER PRESENCE DETECTION

摘要

A computing device (108) may detect the presence of a user after the user has not interacted with the computing device (108) for a predetermined time period. The user may leave the device (1908) powered up, but after the predetermined time period has expired, the device (108) enters a user detection mode from a normal operation mode such that nonessential components are powered down. A trackpad (141) may be used to detect the presence of the user in the user detection mode. An electric field (310) is generated by conductive plates of the trackpad (141). When the user extends his hand over the trackpad (141), sense lines in the track pad (141) detect the interference with the electric field (300) caused by the hand. A processor (124) is signaled to return the device (108) to normal operation mode and restore full power to the device (108). A camera (500) may be also used to detect the user's presence during the user detection mode.