Patent ID: 6115228
Filing Date: 2000-09-05
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
A method for power saving operation of a power supply having a V.sub.in connection, V.sub.out connection, and V.sub.select connection, said power supply further having an output voltage selectable between a higher output voltage and a lower output voltage and used to power an electro-mechanical device, said electro-mechanical device having an electro-mechanical device ground, a first higher power requirement to be activated, and a second lower power requirement to maintain operation after it is activated, said method comprising the steps of:incorporating a capacitance on the output of the power supply by connecting the capacitance to the power supply V.sub.out connection;selecting the power supply higher output voltage when the electro-mechanical device is not activated by connecting the electro-mechanical device ground to the power supply V.sub.select connection;delivering current from the capacitance to the electro-mechanical device when it is activated;sensing the current through the electro-mechanical device; andselecting the power supply lower output voltage in response to said step of sensing.