Desktop computer monitor power control using keyboard controller

摘要

A desktop computer power controller uses the keyboard controller of the computer to time the duration of keyboard or other input device inactivity and to assert a power control signal when the duration exceeds a predetermined threshold value. A power control unit coupled to the keyboard controller interrupts power to a peripheral device such as a video monitor when the duration of inactivity exceeds the threshold value. In an alternative embodiment, the power control unit switches the peripheral device into a low-power mode when the duration of inactivity exceeds the threshold value. Once in low-power mode, the keyboard controller switches the device back to normal mode upon detecting resumed activity on the keyboard or other input device.