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US6134667A Expired / Lapsed US ⏱️ 0.0 years remaining

Computer system and its cooling control method

Assignee: Toshiba Corp
•
Filing: 1998-05-06
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Granted: 2000-10-17
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Expires: 2018-05-06
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Abstract

Abstract Temperature sensors A, B, and C are arranged near a CPU, HDD, and PC card controller, and monitor changes in temperature of these devices. When a given temperature sensor detects that the temperature of the corresponding device has exceeded a threshold temperature, the device to be cooled is determined by identifying that temperature sensor, and cooling is done at power suited to the temperature characteristics of the determined device.

Inventors

  • 👤 Shinichi Suzuki
  • 👤 Hiroaki Yokomichi

Bibliographic Details

Application Number —
Jurisdiction US
Data Source google_patents
Last Synchronized 2026-11-09 03:16
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06F; G06F1/00; G06F1/16; G06F1/20; G06F1/206; Y; Y02; Y02D; Y02D10/00; Y10; Y10S; Y10S388/00; Y10S388/923; Y10S388/934

Claims Analysis

Total Claims: 67
Claim 1
Independent Claim 155 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim 155 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim 173 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said and first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim 173 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said and first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim 236 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, wherein said fan control means also changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim 236 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, wherein said fan control means also changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim 241 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to rotate said cooling fan at a first rotational speed while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to rotate said cooling fan at a second rotational speed while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature and the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim 241 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to rotate said cooling fan at a first rotational speed while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to rotate said cooling fan at a second rotational speed while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature and the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim 196 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim 196 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim 51 words
The system according to claim 5, further comprising means for, when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature, controlling to selectively one of i) decreasing the operation speed of the CPU and ii) increasing the rotational speed of said cooling fan.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim 265 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines the rotational speed of said cooling fan on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim 265 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines the rotational speed of said cooling fan on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim 193 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, wherein said cooling fan is an exhaust fan for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim 193 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, wherein said cooling fan is an exhaust fan for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim 155 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim 155 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim 172 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim 172 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim 235 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means also changes the number of cooling fans, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim 235 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means also changes the number of cooling fans, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim 237 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to drive a first number of cooling fans while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to drive a second number of cooling fans while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature and the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim 237 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to drive a first number of cooling fans while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to drive a second number of cooling fans while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature and the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim 196 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim 196 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim 52 words
The system according to claim 13, further comprising means for, when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature, controlling to selectively one of i) decreasing the operation speed of the CPU and ii) increasing the number of cooling fans to be driven.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim 273 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a first device to be cooled; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal; and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines the number of cooling fans to be driven on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim 273 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a first device to be cooled; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal; and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines the number of cooling fans to be driven on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim 194 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device: a plurality of cooling fans, wherein said plurality of cooling fans are exhaust fans for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim 194 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device: a plurality of cooling fans, wherein said plurality of cooling fans are exhaust fans for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim 188 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim 188 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim 205 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim 205 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein at least one of said first and second threshold temperatures is changeable by a user.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim 270 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means also ON/OFF controls said first and second cooling fans, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim 270 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means also ON/OFF controls said first and second cooling fans, based on whether or not the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become less than a third threshold temperature and whether or not the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become less than a fourth threshold temperature, and the third threshold temperature is less than the first threshold temperature and the fourth threshold temperature is less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim 249 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to drive said first cooling fan while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to drive said second cooling fan while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim 249 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means controls to drive said first cooling fan while the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, and said fan control means controls to drive said second cooling fan while the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim 229 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim 229 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first device is a CPU, and said system further comprises means for decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim 48 words
The system according to claim 21, further comprising means for, when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature, controlling to selectively one of i) decreasing the operation speed of the CPU and ii) driving said first cooling fan.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim 305 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines a corresponding one of said first and second cooling fans to be driven on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim 305 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said fan control means includes: means for, when the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature, informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and means for, when the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature, informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, and wherein the CPU determines a corresponding one of said first and second cooling fans to be driven on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim 230 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first and second cooling fans are exhaust fans for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, respectively, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim 230 words
A computer system comprising: a first device to be cooled; a second device to be cooled, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature, and wherein said first and second cooling fans are exhaust fans for exhausting air outside said computer system that accommodates the first and second devices, respectively, and said system further comprises an inlet fan for taking outer air into said computer system.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim 127 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim 127 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim 126 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a plurality of cooling fans, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on results of the determination step.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim 126 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a plurality of cooling fans, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on results of the determination step.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim 152 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said first device, a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said second device, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim 152 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said first device, a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said second device, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim 153 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim 153 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a cooling fan having variable rotational speed; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes the rotational speed of said cooling fan when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim 153 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim 153 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a plurality of cooling fans; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means changes a number of cooling fans to be driven when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim 186 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim 186 words
A computer system comprising: a first device generating heat; a second device generating heat, said second device being different from said first device; a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a first temperature related to said first device; a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a second temperature related to said second device; a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the first temperature related to said first device; a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the second temperature related to said second device; and fan control means for ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on at least one of the first temperature detected by said first temperature sensor and the second temperature detected by said second temperature sensor, wherein said fan control means causes at least one of said first and second cooling fans to be rotated when said first temperature sensor detects the first temperature has become not less than a first threshold temperature, and when said second temperature sensor detects that the second temperature has become not less than a second threshold temperature.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim 125 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim 125 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim 124 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a plurality of cooling fans, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on results of the determination step.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim 124 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a plurality of cooling fans, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and changing a number of cooling fans to be driven, based on results of the determination step.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim 150 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said first device, a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said second device, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim 150 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device generating heat, a second device generating heat, a first cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said first device, a second cooling fan which is arranged to lower a temperature related to said second device, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect the temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; and ON/OFF controlling said first and second cooling fans, based on results of the determining step.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim 155 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device including a CPU to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step; and decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim 155 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device including a CPU to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step; and decreasing an operation speed of the CPU when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than the first threshold temperature.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim 224 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step; informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature; informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, when the temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature; and causing the CPU to determine the rotational speed of said cooling fan on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim 224 words
A cooling control method for use in a computer system having a first device to be cooled, a second device to be cooled, a cooling fan having variable rotational speed, a first temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said first device, and a second temperature sensor which is arranged to detect a temperature related to said second device, said method comprising the steps of: determining whether or not a temperature detected by said first temperature sensor has become not less than a first threshold temperature and whether or not a temperature detected by said second temperature sensor has become not less than a second threshold temperature; changing a rotational speed of said cooling fan, based on results of the determining step; informing a CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said first temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, when the temperature detected by said first temperature sensor is not less than the first threshold temperature; informing the CPU of said computer system of a temperature sensor ID indicating said second temperature sensor using an interrupt signal, when the temperature detected by said second temperature sensor is not less than the second threshold temperature; and causing the CPU to determine the rotational speed of said cooling fan on the basis of the informed temperature sensor ID.

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