Anthony Paul Ferranti

US Patent:

20090016408, Jan 15, 2009

Filed:

Jul 11, 2007

Appl. No.:

11/776369

Inventors:

Edward D. Doan - Round Rock TX, US
Anthony P. Ferranti - Raleigh NC, US
Gary E. O'Neil - Raleigh NC, US

International Classification:

G01K 7/00

US Classification:

374164, 700300

Abstract:

A method and system for efficiently extending the operating temperature range of high power components within a system/device. An embedded monitor measures local temperatures such as junction temperatures of components. When the measured temperature is less than the lowest operational temperature threshold of the component, temperature control logic initiates pre-heating to raise the component's temperature to an operational level, utilizing a heating source. The component (or device) is made operational only when the temperature is at or above the operational level. The temperature control logic maintains the operational temperature of the component using the high power dissipated by components within the operating system/device as a self heating source. If self heating is unable to maintain the operational temperature, the heating source is utilized to assist in maintaining the component's operational temperature, and thereby extends the useable operational temperature range of the system in which the components are employed.