Energy consumption reduction system for computer - puts computer into standby mode by executing interrupt routine when absence of data entry is detected within set period

摘要

The energy reduction system is employed in a computer system that includes a microprocessor (1), keyboard (5), keyboard controller (4), non maskable interrupt, and standby control register (3). The keyboard controller has stages (4a,4c) that determine the presence or absence of data entry via the keyboard within a specific period. If an absence of entry is detected within the predetermined period a non maskable interrupt request is generated and thus a NMI routine stored in ROM executed. The NMI routine establishes a standby condition with the processor operating at reduced power. ADVANTAGE - Reduces power consumption when not in use.