Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A self-contained power control module for controlling power to the peripheral output devices of an electronic data processing system. The power control module automatically interrupts power to the peripheral output devices of the system after a predetermined interval has elapsed without detection of data input, and restores power to the peripheral output devices upon detection of data input. A pulse detection circuit, connected to the peripheral input devices, monitors the peripheral input devices for data pulses. A timing module, connected to the pulse detection circuit, is reset upon the detection of a data pulse. After a predetermined interval has elapsed without detection of a data pulse, the timing module outputs a control signal to two switches. A power switch, disposed between the power supply and the peripheral output device, controls power to the peripheral output device in response to the control signal from the timing module. A data switch, disposed between the peripheral input device and the microprocessor of the data processing system, controls input of data to the microprocessor in response to the control signal from the timing module.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim