Importance

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Abstract

A cooling module includes, for certain embodiments, a brushless DC fan and integral fan control circuitry which independently implements a self-contained start and run motor control loop and also includes a communications port to accept commands from a host processor and to provide status and other data in response to queries from the host processor. In one embodiment, a fan module interfaces with a two-wire serial bus, such as an I.sup.2 C bus or SMbus, and accepts commands and provides status and data in a serial digital format. A variety of commands such as on/off, and various speed control settings may be received from the host system, and the actual speed of the fan may be reported back when queried by the host system. In some embodiments a temperature within or near the fan housing or of the air flow through the fan may be reported back when queried. The entire fan control circuit may preferably be incorporated within the fan housing, including a serial interface and power terminals for the fan, resulting in a compact four-wire interface for the fan module.

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First Claim