Abstract:
An information processing apparatus that includes a first graphic processing module having a first level of graphic performance and a second graphic processing module having a second level of graphic performance, which is greater than the first level of graphic performance. The information processing apparatus also includes a controller that selects one of the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module by determining whether the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the first level of graphic performance or the second level of graphic performance, and detects whether the information processing apparatus is provided with power via a battery or via an external power source.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus including a plurality of graphics chips having different graphics performances, and to an information processing method and a program for an information processing apparatus. 
       BACKGROUND ART 
       [0002]    In related art, there is an information processing apparatus on which two graphics chips having different graphics performances are mounted and which implements reduction in power consumption and improvement in graphics performance by switching the operations of the chips (see, for example, Patent Literature 1)). 
         [0003]    In the information processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Literature 1, the switching of the two graphics chips is performed with a mechanical switch that is manually operable by a user. 
       [Citation List] 
     [Patent Literature] 
     [PTL 1] 
       [0004]    Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2007-179225 
       SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
       [0005]    However, in the case where a user manually switches the graphics chips as in the information processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Literature 1, a safety problem may arise. Specifically, for example, if a user switches the graphics chips during execution of a specific application in the information processing apparatus, a trouble may be caused in the operation of the application. 
         [0006]    Further, it takes time and effort for a user to judge which graphics chip is proper as occasion demands in consideration of a trouble that may be caused in the operation of the application and manually switch the graphics chips. Further, this may prevent the effective utilization of the two graphics chips having different graphics performances. 
         [0007]    In view of the above-mentioned circumstances, it is desirable to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program capable of safely and easily switching two graphics chips having different graphics performances in accordance with a use purpose of a user. 
         [0008]    According to one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an information processing apparatus, comprising: a first graphic processing module having a first level of graphic performance; a second graphic processing module having a second level of graphic performance, which is greater than the first level of graphic performance; a controller configured to select one of the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module by determining whether the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the first level of graphic performance or the second level of graphic performance, and detecting whether the information processing apparatus is provided with power via a battery or via an external power source. 
         [0009]    The information processing apparatus may include an interface compatible with the second level of graphic performance. 
         [0010]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may be configured to determine that the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the second level of graphic performance by detecting that a connection is provided to the interface. 
         [0011]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to determine that the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the second level of graphic performance by determining that an application executed by the information processing apparatus is compatible with the second level of graphic performance. 
         [0012]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to detect that the information processing apparatus is provided with power via the external power source by detecting that power is being supplied via an external connection. 
         [0013]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to select the second graphic processing module when it is determined that the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the second level of graphic performance. 
         [0014]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to select the second graphic processing module when it is detected that the information processing apparatus is provided with power via the external power source. 
         [0015]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to select the first graphic processing module when it is determined that the information processing apparatus is not capable of outputting data with the second level of graphic performance. 
         [0016]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to select the first graphic processing module when it is detected that the information processing apparatus is provided with power via the battery. 
         [0017]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to display a notification when the controller switches between the first and second graphic processing modules. 
         [0018]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to display a notification when the controller selects either the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module. 
         [0019]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to display a power consumption value upon selecting the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module. 
         [0020]    The notification may include a button configured to receive a user input indicating whether the selection is accepted. 
         [0021]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to determine whether an application executed at the information processing apparatus is affected by the selecting, and the displayed notification indicates that the application is affected. 
         [0022]    The notification may include a button configured to receive a user input indicating whether the selection is accepted. 
         [0023]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to switch between the first and second graphic processing modules when the application affected by the selecting is terminated. 
         [0024]    The first graphic processing module may be configured to consume a first amount of power during operation, and the second graphic processing module may be configured to consume a second amount of power, which is greater that the first amount of power, during operation. 
         [0025]    The controller of the information processing apparatus may also be configured to control the information processing apparatus to be in each of a first mode in which the controller automatically selects one of the first and second graphic processing modules, a second mode, in which the first graphic processing module is selected, and a user input is required to switch to the second graphic processing module, and a third mode, in which the second graphic processing module is selected, and a user input is required to switch to the first graphic processing module. 
         [0026]    The information processing apparatus may also include s a switch having a movable portion configured to be moved between three positions, each corresponding to one of the first, second and third modes. 
         [0027]    The switch may be a triangular shaped switch, and the movable portion may be configured to be moved between each corner of the triangle, and each corner of the triangle corresponds to one of the first, second and third modes. 
         [0028]    When the information processing apparatus is in the second mode and the controller determines that the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the second level of graphic performance, the controller may be configured to control a display of the information processing apparatus to display a notification. 
         [0029]    When the information processing apparatus is in the third mode and the controller detects that the information processing apparatus is provided with power via the battery, the controller may be configured to control a display of the information processing apparatus to display a notification. 
         [0030]    According to another embodiment, the invention is directed to a method performed by an information processing apparatus including a first graphic processing module having a first level of graphic performance and a second graphic processing module having a second level of graphic performance, which is greater than the first level of graphic performance, the method comprising: determining, by a controller of the information processing apparatus, whether the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the first level of graphic performance or the second level of graphic performance; detecting, by the controller of the information processing apparatus, whether the information processing apparatus is provided with power via a battery or via an external power source; and selecting, by the controller of the information processing apparatus, one of the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module based on the determining and detecting. 
         [0031]    According to another embodiment, the invention is directed to a non-transitory computer readable medium including computer program instructions, which when executed by an information processing apparatus including a first graphic processing module having a first level of graphic performance and a second graphic processing module having a second level of graphic performance, which is greater than the first level of graphic performance, cause the information processing apparatus to perform a method comprising: determining whether the information processing apparatus is capable of outputting data with the first level of graphic performance or the second level of graphic performance; detecting whether the information processing apparatus is provided with power via a battery or via an external power source; and selecting one of the first graphic processing module or the second graphic processing module based on the determining and the detecting. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0032]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing a PC according to an embodiment of the present invention in the state of being opened. 
           [0033]      FIG. 2  is a left side view of the PC according to the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the PC according to the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0035]      FIG. 4  is a diagram showing a lighted state of an LED display in accordance with a switch position of a mode selection switch according to the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0036]      FIG. 5  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where an AUTO mode is selected with the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 6  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the AUTO mode is selected with the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 7  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where a STAMINA mode is selected with the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 8  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where a SPEED mode is selected with the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 9  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where both an HDMI connection and a DVI connection are released in the AUTO mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0041]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector or the DVI connector in the AUTO mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0042]      FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector or the DVI connector in the STAMINA mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the AC adapter connected in the AUTO mode is removed in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0044]      FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the AC adapter that is not connected in the AUTO mode is connected in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0045]      FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing the switching operation flow of the PC to the STAMINA mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0046]      FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing the switching operation flow of the PC to the SPEED mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0047]      FIG. 16  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of the switching with the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0048]      FIG. 17  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of a current switch position for the mode selection switch in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0049]      FIG. 18  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of the connection between the external monitor and the HDMI connector or the DVI connector in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 19  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks at the time when the graphics chips are switched in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0051]      FIG. 20  is a diagram showing an example of a message that indicates a completion of a power supply setting for the AUTO mode and the STAMINA mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0052]      FIG. 21  is a diagram showing an example of a message that indicates the completion of the power supply setting for the AUTO mode and the SPEED mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0053]      FIG. 22  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for confirming with a user whether it is possible to perform switching to the AUTO and STAMINA modes by the 
           [0054]    PC in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0055]      FIG. 23  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for confirming with the user whether it is possible to perform switching to the AUTO and SPEED modes by the PC in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0056]      FIG. 24  is a diagram showing an example of a message that indicates a completion of a power supply setting for the STAMINA mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0057]      FIG. 25  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for confirming with the user whether it is possible to perform switching to the STAMINA mode by the PC in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0058]      FIG. 26  is a diagram showing an example of a message that indicates a completion of a power supply setting for the SPEED mode in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0059]      FIG. 27  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for confirming with the user whether it is possible to perform switching to the SPEED mode by the PC in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0060]      FIG. 28  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for urging the user to perform the switching to the SPEED mode by the PC in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0061]      FIG. 29  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for urging the user to perform the switching to the STAMINA mode by the PC in the case where the application is run that may cause a trouble due to a mode switching in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0062]      FIG. 30  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for urging the user to perform the switching to the SPEED mode by the PC in the case where the application is run that may cause the trouble due to the mode switching in the embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0063]      FIG. 31  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog for indicating, by the PC, a name of the application that may cause the trouble due to the mode switching in the embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
       [0064]    Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 
       (External Structure of PC) 
       [0065]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing a PC according to an embodiment of the present invention in the state of being opened.  FIG. 2  is a left side view of the PC. 
         [0066]    As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a PC  100  is a notebook PC, and includes a main body unit  2  and a display  3 . The main body unit  2  and the display  3  are relatively rotatably connected with each other with hinges  4 . The display  3  includes an LCD (liquid crystal display)  3   a  in a region where the display  3  is caused to face the main body unit  2  when being closed to the main body unit  2 . 
         [0067]    The main body  2  includes, in a region where the main body  2  faces the display  3  when the display  3  is closed thereto, an operation input unit  2   a  such as a keyboard and a touch pad, a palm rest member  2   b,  a non-contact IC (integrated circuit) card antenna  2   c,  and a slide mode selection switch  7 . On the palm rest member  2   b,  a user puts the wrist when performing an input operation. The main body unit  2  further includes, on a side surface thereof, a power supply switch  2   d,  an external display connector  2   e,  a USB (universal serial bus) connector  2   f,  a disk insertion and removal opening  2   g  for a disk drive (not shown), a microphone input terminal  2   h,  a headphone connector  2   i,  and an HDMI connector  2   j.  To the HDMI connector  2   j,  an external monitor such as a TV is connected through an HDMI cable, and an image signal generated by the PC  100  is output in conformity with an HDMI standard. To the main body  2 , a DVI connector (not shown) is also provided that is used for outputting an image signal to an external monitor through a DVI cable in conformity with a DVI standard. 
         [0068]    The main body  2  further includes a casing  30  that is constituted of a top case  32  and a bottom case  10 . To the top case  32 , the operation input unit  2   a  and the like are provided. 
         [0069]    The mode selection switch  7  is used to switch three modes (described later) of the PC  100 , and is formed so that a movable portion can be moved among three switching positions corresponding to the three modes along a triangular shape of a guide unit. 
         [0070]    In the vicinity of each of three corners of the mode selection switch  7 , three LED (light emitting diode) displays  8  are provided that notify the user of a mode in execution out of the three modes in accordance with a switch position of the mode selection switch  7 . The LED displays  8  will be described later in detail. 
       (Hardware Structure of PC) 
       [0071]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the PC  100 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , in addition to the structures shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the PC  100  includes a CPU (central processing unit)  11 , a chip set  12 , an embedded graphics chip  15 , an external graphics chip  20 , an EC (embedded controller)  16 , a switching circuit  22 , a selector  23 , a DVI connector  2   k , an HDD (hard disk drive)  21 , a nonvolatile memory  25 , a power supply circuit  26 , a battery  27 , a DC jack  28 , and a wattmeter  29 . 
         [0072]    The chip set  12  manages the transmission and reception of data between devices in the PC  100 , and is constituted of a north bridge  13  and a south bridge  14 . 
         [0073]    In the north bridge  13 , the embedded graphics chip  15 , a memory controller (not shown), and the like are embedded. The north bridge  13  is connected with the CPU  11  and the external graphics chip  20 . The south bridge  14  has a connection interface with peripheral devices such as the HDD  21 , the nonvolatile memory  25 , and the EC  16 . 
         [0074]    The embedded graphics chip  15  and the external graphics chip  20  each perform a drawing process based on data received from the CPU  11 , and output a generated image signal to the switching circuit  22  to display an image on the LCD  3   a  and the external monitor. In this embodiment, the external graphics chip  20  has a higher graphics performance than the embedded graphics chip  15 . 
         [0075]    The embedded graphics chip  15  has a lower graphics performance than the external graphics chip  20 . However, the power consumption of the embedded graphics chip  15  is smaller than that of the external graphics chip  20 . On the other hand, the external graphics chip  20  has the higher graphics performance in terms of a 3-D process, a high-resolution drawing process, and the like, but involves high power consumption to drive the external graphics chip  20  itself and the peripheral devices thereof, with the result that an electrical load with respect to the entire system of the PC  100  is increased. 
         [0076]    In accordance with the switching of the modes with the mode selection switch  7 , the PC  100  manually or automatically selects one of the embedded graphics chip  15  and the external graphics chip  20  that have the different graphics performances and thus can perform the drawing process (this will be described later in detail). 
         [0077]    The HDD  21  stores, in a built-in hard disk, data or various programs such as utility software for executing the mode switching process in this embodiment, a graphics driver necessary for the operation for various graphics chips, and FEP.sys. Here, the PC  100  may be provided with a flash memory instead of the HDD  21 . 
         [0078]    The nonvolatile memory  25  is a ROM (read only memory), an EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable read only memory), a flash memory, or the like, and stores data or programs such as BIOS and firmware. 
         [0079]    The EC  16  has functions such as a KBC (keyboard controller), an ACPI/EC, and a PIC (programmable IO controller). The KBC controls a keyboard as the operation input unit  2   a.  The ACPI/EC manages the power supply in accordance with an ACPI (advanced configuration and power interface), which is a standard that relates to electrical control. The PIC provides an interface with the utility software. 
         [0080]    With the KBC, the EC  16  can detect the operation of the operation input unit  2   a  by the user, and can notify a high-order system such as an OS (operating system) of information called scan code. In addition, the EC  16  includes an interface for performing communication with a system such as the BIOS and the OS (described later) with the PIC, and can transmit and receive a command or data. Further, the EC  16  is connected with the mode selection switch  7  and the LED display  8 . 
         [0081]    The switching circuit  22  switches an image signal outputted from one of the embedded graphics chip  15  and the external graphics chip  20 , and outputs the signal to the LDC  3   a,  the HDMI connector  2   j,  and the DVI connector  2   k.  In accordance with the selection of the graphics chip in each of the modes, the EC  16  outputs an image switching signal to the switching circuit  22 , and controls the switching of the image signal outputted from the graphics chips. The image signal outputted to the HDMI connector  2   j  and the DVI connector  2   k  is then outputted to the external monitor through the HDMI cable and the DVI cable, respectively. 
         [0082]    The power supply circuit  26  is connected with one of the battery  27 , such as a lithium ion battery, and the DC jack  28  for inputting commercial power through an AC adapter  5 , and supplies the power to the respective units of the PC  100  therethrough. 
         [0083]    The wattmeter  22  is connected to the battery  27  and the DC jack  28 , measures an electric power value (current value) of electric power supplied therefrom, and transmits the measurement value to the CPU  11 . The measurement value is used in a display process of the power consumption before and after the mode switching, which will be described later in detail. 
       (Details of Mode Selection Switch and LED Display) 
       [0084]    Next, the mode selection switch  7  and the LED display  8  will be described in detail.  FIG. 4  is a diagram showing a lighted state of the LED display  8  in accordance with the switch position of the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0085]    In this embodiment, the PC  100  has three operation modes of a STAMINA mode, a SPEED mode, and an AUTO mode. In the STAMINA mode, the drawing process is performed all the time by the embedded graphics chip  15  in consideration of electric power saving, that is, in consideration of lasting driving of the battery  27  as long as possible. In the SPEED mode, the drawing process is performed all the time by the external graphics chip  20 . Importance is placed on a drawing process performance. In the AUTO mode, an appropriate graphics chip is determined based on a use condition of the PC  100 , and the graphics chip determined performs the drawing process. 
         [0086]    In other words, in the AUTO mode, switching is performed between the STAMINA mode and the SPEED mode when necessary. The PC  100  executes one of those three modes by switching. Thus, one of the embedded graphics chip  15  and the external graphics chip  20  performs the drawing process. 
         [0087]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , in the AUTO mode, a movable portion  7   a  of the mode selection switch  7  is disposed at the upper right portion, and an LED display  8   c  of “AUTO” is lighted. Further, in the AUTO mode, depending on the graphics chip currently selected by the PC  100 , that is, depending on a mode in execution, SPEED mode or STAMINA mode, one of LED displays  8   a  and  8   b  is lighted too. The color of a light source of the LED displays  8   a  and  8   b  is set to be different from the color of a light source of the LED display  8   c.    
         [0088]    In addition, in the case where the manual switching (not the AUTO mode) is selected, and the SPEED mode is selected, the movable portion  7   a  is disposed on the upper left portion. In the case where the STAMINA mode is selected, the movable portion  7   a  is disposed on the lower left. Further, one of the LED displays  8   a  and  8   b  corresponding to the SPEED mode and the STAMINA mode, respectively, is lighted. 
       (PC Operation) 
       [0089]    Subsequently, a description will be given on mode switching operations in the PC structured as described above. In the following, the CPU  11  will be described as a main operation subject, but the operations are performed in cooperation with various kinds of hardware and software as described later. 
       (Operation at Time of Changing Switch) 
       [0090]    First, a description will be given on an operation of the PC  100  in the case where the user selects a position corresponding to each of the modes with the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0091]      FIGS. 5 and 6  are flowcharts showing the operations of the PC  100  in the case where the AUTO mode is selected with the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0092]    As shown in  FIG. 5 , when the AUTO mode is selected with the mode selection switch  7  (Step  51 ), the CPU  11  judges whether the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Step  52 ). 
         [0093]    Here, in this embodiment, in the case where the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k,  the PC  100  is capable of operating only in the SPEED mode in the hardware design. 
         [0094]    In Step  52 , when judging that the external monitor is connected (Yes), the CPU  11  judges whether a current mode is the STAMINA mode or not (Step  53 ). When judging that the current mode is the STAMINA mode (Yes), the CPU  11  performs the subsequent switching process of (B) of  FIG. 6  (Step  54 ). 
         [0095]    In Step  53 , when judging that the current mode is not the STAMINA mode (No), the CPU  11  changes only a setting of a power supply option (Step  55 ), because the current mode is the SPEED mode, and it is unnecessary to switch the graphics chips. Then, the CPU  11  displays a message (message ( 2 )) indicating a setting completion and terminates the process (Step  56 ). 
         [0096]    Here, the power supply option is held by the OS of the PC  100  for each mode, and is used to perform an appropriate power supply setting in accordance with the selection of the graphic chip, that is, depending on whether the drawing process performance or the electric power saving is emphasized. Therefore, in Step  55 , the power supply option is the setting in which the drawing process performance is emphasized.  FIG. 21  is a diagram showing an example of the message ( 2 ) that indicates the completion of the power supply setting for the AUTO mode and the SPEED mode. 
         [0097]    In Step  53 , when judging that the current mode is the STAMINA mode, as shown in (B) of  FIG. 6 , the CPU  11  indicates a dialog (message ( 4 )) for confirming with the user whether the STAMINA mode can be switched to the SPEED mode (Step  70 ). 
         [0098]      FIG. 23  is a diagram showing an example of the dialog (message ( 4 )). As shown in  FIG. 23 , on the dialog, an OK button  231  for permitting the switching to the SPEED mode is displayed. 
         [0099]    Then, the CPU  11  judges whether the mode selection switch  7  is returned to the state prior to the switching to the AUTO mode (Step  71 ). When judging that the mode selection switch  7  is returned (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  72 ). That is, by returning the mode selection switch  7 , the mode switching process is canceled. 
         [0100]    When the mode selection switch  7  is not returned (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the OK button  231  in the dialog is clicked or not (Step  73 ). When judging that the OK button  231  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  performs a switching operation to the SPEED mode (Step  74 ). The switching operation to the SPEED mode will be described later in detail. 
         [0101]    Returning to  FIG. 5 , in Step  52 , when the CPU  11  judges that the external monitor is not connected (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the AC adapter  5  is connected to the DC jack  28  (Step  57 ). When judging that the AC adapter  5  is connected (Yes), the CPU  11  performs the same processes as the processes of Steps  53  to  56  (Steps  58  to  60 ). That is, even if the external monitor is not connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k,  in the case where the AC adapter  5  is connected to the DC jack  28 , and it is unnecessary to take into consideration the drive time period of the battery  27 , the CPU  11  performs the SPEED mode to emphasize the drawing process performance. 
         [0102]    In Step  57 , when judging that the AC adapter  5  is not connected (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the current mode is the SPEED mode or not (Step  61 ). When judging that the current mode is the SPEED mode (Yes), the CPU  11  subsequently performs a switching process of (A) of  FIG. 6  (Step  62 ). 
         [0103]    In Step  61 , when judging that the current mode is not the SPEED mode (No), that is, judging that the current mode is the STAMINA mode, the CPU  11  changes only a setting of a power supply option (Step  63 ), because it is unnecessary to switch the modes. Then, the CPU  11  displays a message (message ( 1 )) indicating a setting completion and terminates the process (Step  64 ). 
         [0104]    That is, in this case, the CPU  11  sets an appropriate power supply option to maintain the operation by the battery  27  as much as possible with the low power consumption.  FIG. 20  is a diagram showing an example of the message ( 1 ) that indicates the completion of the power supply option setting for the AUTO mode and the STAMINA mode. 
         [0105]    In Step  61 , when judging that the current mode is the SPEED mode, as shown in (A) of  FIG. 6 , the CPU  11  indicates a dialog (message ( 3 )) for confirming with the user whether the SPEED mode can be switched to the STAMINA mode (Step  65 ).  FIG. 22  is a diagram showing an example of the dialog (message ( 3 )). As shown in  FIG. 22 , on the dialog, an OK button  221  for permitting the switching to the STAMINA mode is indicated. 
         [0106]    The subsequent operations are the same as the processes of Steps  71  to  74  in (B) of  FIG. 6  except that the STAMINA mode and the SPEED mode are reversed (Steps  66  to  69 ). That is, when the switching with the mode selection switch  7  is not canceled, and the OK button  221  on the dialog is clicked, the CPU  11  performs the switching operation to the STAMINA mode. The switching operation to the STAMINA mode will be described later in detail. 
         [0107]      FIG. 7  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC  100  in the case where the switching to the STAMINA mode is performed with the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0108]    As shown in  FIG. 7 , in the case where the STAMINA mode is selected with the mode selection switch  7  (Step  81 ), the CPU  11  judges whether the current mode is the AUTO mode and the STAMINA mode (Step  82 ). When judging that the current mode is the AUTO mode and the STAMINA mode (Yes), the CPU  11  just changes the setting of the power supply option because the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  83 ), and displays a message indicating a setting completion (message ( 5 )), to terminate the operation (Step  84 ).  FIG. 24  is a diagram showing an example of the message ( 5 ) that indicates the setting completion of the power supply option for the STAMINA mode. In this case, the electric power saving is emphasized. 
         [0109]    In Step  82 , when judging that the current mode is not the AUTO mode and the STAMINA mode (No), the CPU  11  displays a dialog (message ( 6 )) for confirming with the user whether the current mode may be switched to the STAMINA mode (Step  85 ).  FIG. 25  is a diagram showing an example of the dialog (message ( 6 )). As shown in  FIG. 25 , on the dialog, an OK button  251  for permitting the switching to the STAMINA mode is displayed. 
         [0110]    The subsequent operation is the same as the processes of Steps  66  to  69  of (A) of  FIG. 6  (Steps  86  to  89 ). That is, in the case where the switching with the mode selection switch  7  is not canceled, and the OK button  251  on the dialog is clicked, the CPU  11  switches the current mode to the STAMINA mode. 
         [0111]      FIG. 8  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC  100  in the case where the switching to SPEED mode is performed with the mode selection switch  7 . The operation flow of this case is different from that shown in  FIG. 7  only in the mode. That is, the SPEED mode is involved in the operation shown in  FIG. 8 , while the STAMINA mode is involved in the operation shown in  FIG. 7 .  FIG. 26  is a diagram showing an example of a message ( 7 ) that indicates the setting completion of the power supply option for the SPEED mode. In this case, the drawing process performance is emphasized.  FIG. 27  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog (message ( 8 )) for confirming with the user whether the switching to the SPEED mode may be performed. As shown in  FIG. 27 , on the dialog, an OK button  271  for permitting the switching to the SPEED mode is displayed. 
       (Operation at Time When Various Events Occur in Respective Modes) 
       [0112]    Subsequently, in the aforementioned modes, the operations of the PC  100  in the case where events occur that require the switching of the modes will be described. 
         [0113]      FIG. 9  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC  100  in the case where both the HDMI connection and the DVI connection are released (the cables are removed from both the HDMI connector  2   j  and the DVI connector  2   k ) in the AUTO mode. 
         [0114]    As shown in  FIG. 9 , when both the HDMI connection and the DVI connection are released (Step  101 ), the CPU  11  judges whether the AC adapter  5  is connected to the DC jack  28  (Step  102 ). 
         [0115]    When judging that the AC adapter  5  is connected (Yes), the CPU  11  terminates the process because the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  103 ). 
         [0116]    When judging that the AC adapter  5  is not connected (No), the CPU  11  displays a dialog (message ( 3 )) for confirming with the user whether the switching to the STAMINA mode may be performed as shown in  FIG. 22  because the current mode is the AUTO and SPEED modes (Step  104 ). 
         [0117]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  again (Step  105 ). In the case where the connection to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  is performed (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  106 ). That is, the user can cancel the mode switching process by inserting the HDMI cable or the DVI cable to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  again. 
         [0118]    In the case where the external monitor is not connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  again (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the OK button  221  on the dialog is clicked or not (Step  107 ). When judging that the OK button  221  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  switches the current mode to the STAMINA mode (Step  108 ). 
         [0119]      FIG. 10  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  in the AUTO mode. 
         [0120]    As shown in  FIG. 10 , when the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Step  111 ), the CPU  11  judges whether another external monitor is already connected to the remaining connector (Step  112 ). When judging that another external monitor is connected to the remaining connector (Yes), the CPU  11  terminates the process, because the current mode is the AUTO and SPEED modes, and the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  113 ). 
         [0121]    When judging that another external monitor is not connected to the remaining connector (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the AC adapter  5  is connected to the DC jack  28  or not (Step  114 ). When the CPU  11  judges that the AC adapter  5  is connected (Yes), the CPU  11  terminates the process, because the current mode is the AUTO and SPEED modes, and the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  115 ). 
         [0122]    When judging that the AC adapter  5  is not connected (No), as shown in  FIG. 23 , the CPU  11  displays the dialog (message ( 4 )) for confirming with the user whether the switching to the SPEED mode may be performed or not (Step  116 ). 
         [0123]    Then, the CPU  11  judges whether the HDMI cable or the DVI cable that is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  in Step  111  is removed or not (whether the connection with the external monitor is released or not) (Step  117 ). When judging that the cable is removed (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  118 ). That is, the user can cancel the mode switching process by removing the HDMI cable or the DVI cable that is once inserted. 
         [0124]    When judging that the cable is not removed from the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the OK button  231  is clicked or not on the dialog (Step  119 ). When judging that the OK button  231  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  switches the current mode to the SPEED mode (Step  120 ). 
         [0125]      FIG. 11  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  in the STAMINA mode manually set. 
         [0126]    As shown in  FIG. 11 , when the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  in the STAMINA mode, the CPU  11  displays a dialog (message ( 9 )) for urging the switching to the SPEED mode (Step  122 ).  FIG. 28  is a diagram showing an example of the dialog (message ( 9 )). As shown in  FIG. 28 , in the dialog, a “close” button  281  is displayed along with a message that urges the user to switch the current mode to the SPEED mode with the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0127]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the “close” button  281  is clicked or not on the dialog (Step  123 ). In the case where the “close” button  281  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  124 ). 
         [0128]    Then, the CPU  11  judges whether the user performs the switching to the SPEED mode or the AUTO mode with the mode selection switch  7  (Step  125 ). When the switching is performed with the mode selection switch  7  (Yes), the CPU  11  operates to switch the current mode to the SPEED mode (Step  126 ). 
         [0129]      FIG. 12  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the AC adapter  5  connected in the AUTO mode is removed. 
         [0130]    As shown in  FIG. 12 , when the AC adapter  5  is removed (Step  131 ), the CPU  11  judges whether the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Step  132 ). When judging that the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Yes), the CPU  11  terminates the process, because the current mode is the SPEED mode, and the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  133 ). 
         [0131]    When judging that the external monitor is not connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (No), as shown in  FIG. 22 , the CPU  11  displays the dialog (message ( 3 )) for confirming with the user whether the switching to the STAMINA mode may be performed or not (Step  134 ). 
         [0132]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the AC adapter is connected again (Step  135 ). In the case where the AC adapter is connected again (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  136 ). 
         [0133]    In the case where the AC adapter  5  is not connected (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the OK button  221  is clicked on the dialog (Step  137 ). When judging that the OK button  221  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  operates to switch the current mode to the STAMINA mode (Step  138 ). 
         [0134]      FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the PC in the case where the AC adapter  5  that is not connected in the AUTO mode is connected. 
         [0135]    As shown in  FIG. 13 , when the AC adapter  5  is connected (Step  141 ), the CPU  11  judges whether the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Step  142 ). When judging that the external monitor is connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (Yes), the CPU terminates the process, because the current mode is the SPEED mode, and the mode switching is unnecessary (Step  143 ). 
         [0136]    When judging that the external monitor is not connected to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  (No), the CPU  11  displays the dialog (message ( 4 )) for confirming with the user whether the switching to the SPEED mode may be performed as shown in  FIG. 23  (Step  144 ). 
         [0137]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the AC adapter  5  that has been connected once is removed or not (Step  145 ). In the case where the AC adapter  5  is removed (Yes), the CPU  11  deletes the dialog and terminates the process (Step  146 ). 
         [0138]    In the case where the AC adapter  5  is not removed (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the OK button  231  is clicked on the dialog (Step  147 ). When judging that the OK button  231  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  operates to switch the current mode to the SPEED mode (Step  148 ). 
       (Details of Switching Operation to STAMINA Mode) 
       [0139]    Next, the details of the switching operation to the STAMINA mode will be described.  FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing the switching operation flow to the STAMINA mode. The operation of  FIG. 14  includes an operation during the AUTO mode and an operation during the SPEED mode manually selected. 
         [0140]    As shown in  FIG. 14 , when a switching process to the STAMINA mode is generated (Step  151 ), the CPU  11  judges whether an application that may cause a trouble in the switching is run or not (Step  152 ). Here, the application that may cause a trouble in the switching refers to a reproduction application for a movie, a DVD, or the like, a game application, or the like, in particular, an application that uses the external graphics chip  20 . For example, a mailer, a document creation application, a table creation application, or the like does not cause a trouble, even if the switching is performed during the execution of the application. 
         [0141]    When judging that the application that may cause a trouble in the switching is run (Yes), the CPU  11  judges whether the current mode is the AUTO mode or not (Step  153 ). When judging that the current mode is the AUTO mode (Yes), the CPU  11  displays a message (message ( 10 )) that urges the switching to the STAMINA mode (Step  154 ). 
         [0142]      FIG. 29  is a diagram showing an example of the message ( 10 ) that urges the switching. As shown in  FIG. 29 , the message indicates that the drive time period of the battery  27  is shortened in the current mode and indicates that the message concerned only has to be clicked to perform switching to the STAMINA mode. 
         [0143]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the message concerned is clicked (Step  155 ). When judging that the message is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  displays the name of the application that may cause a trouble in the switching (Step  157 ). In the case where there is a plurality of applications that may cause a trouble in the switching, the names of those applications are displayed. 
         [0144]      FIG. 31  is a diagram showing an example of a dialog that shows the name of the application. As shown in  FIG. 31 , in addition to the name of the application that may cause a trouble in the switching, a message that urges the termination of the application, a forced switching button  311 , and a cancel button  312  are displayed on the dialog. The forced switching button  311  is used to give an instruction that the mode switching is forced to be performed with knowledge of a trouble. The cancel button  312  is used to cancel the switching. 
         [0145]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  judges whether the forced switching button  311  is clicked on the dialog (Step  158 ). When judging that the forced switching button  311  is clicked (Yes), the CPU  11  obtains a power consumption value at that time by using the wattmeter  29  (Step  160 ). 
         [0146]    Then, the CPU  11  performs the switching process to the 
         [0147]    STAMINA mode, that is, a switching process from the external graphics chip  20  to the embedded graphics chip  15  (Step  161 ), and changes the setting of the power supply option (Step  162 ). 
         [0148]    Then, the CPU  11  obtains the power consumption value after the switching of the mode by using the wattmeter  29  (Step  163 ). 
         [0149]    Subsequently, the CPU  11  displays the message ( 1 ) that indicates the completion of the mode switching, and displays the obtained power consumption values before and after the switching (Step  164 ). 
         [0150]    In Step  153 , when judging that the current mode is not the AUTO mode (No), that is, the SPEED mode manually selected, the CPU  11  subsequently performs a process of Step  157 . In this case, the message displayed at the time of the final completion of the switching is the message ( 5 ). 
         [0151]    In addition, in the case where the message is not clicked in Step  155  (No), and in the case where the forced switching button  311  is not clicked in Step  158  (No), the CPU  11  judges whether the applications that may cause a trouble in the switching are entirely terminated (Steps  156  and  159 ). When judging that the applications are terminated, the CPU  11  then performs the process of Step  160 . 
         [0152]    As described above, the CPU  11  displays the name of the application that may cause a trouble in the mode switching to thereby alert the user, with the result that the data of the application in execution can be prevented from being damaged or erased, and the mode switching can be performed safely. Further, in the AUTO mode, the CPU  11  displays the message for urging the switching before displaying the name of the application that may cause a trouble, which can give the user an opportunity to terminate the application by him/herself. 
         [0153]    When the CPU  11  displays the obtained power consumption values according one embodiment of the present invention, the CPU  11  may display the obtained power consumption values at least before or after the switching. Further, the CPU  11  may display a difference between the obtained power consumption values before the switching and after the switching. Also, the CPU  11  may continuously display the obtained power consumption values before, during and after the switching. 
       (Details of Switching Operation to SPEED Mode) 
       [0154]      FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing the switching operation to the SPEED mode. The process shown in  FIG. 15  is different, only in the mode, from the switching process to the STAMINA mode that is shown in  FIG. 14 . That is, the SPEED mode is involved in the process shown in  FIG. 15 , while the STAMINA mode is involved in the process shown in  FIG. 14 , so a description thereof will be omitted.  FIG. 30  is a diagram showing an example of a message (message ( 11 )) that urges the switching that is displayed during the AUTO mode in the switching process to the SPEED mode. As shown in  FIG. 30 , the message indicates that it may be impossible to use the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  in the current mode and indicates that the message only has to be clicked to perform switching to the SPEED mode. In addition, in  FIG. 15 , the message that is finally displayed in the case where the mode is switched in execution of the AUTO mode is the message ( 2 ), and the message that is finally displayed in the case where the mode is switched during the execution of the STAMINA mode manually selected is the message ( 6 ). 
       (Process of Blocks at Time When Various Operations are Performed) 
       [0155]    Next, a description will be given on the flow of a signal among blocks of the software and the hardware of the PC  100  in the processes described above. 
         [0156]      FIG. 16  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of the switching with the mode selection switch  7 .  FIGS. 16 to 19  show, as common blocks, utility software  201 , an FEP.sys  202 , a system BIOS  203 , the EC  16 , the mode selection switch  7 , the switching circuit  22 , the LED display  8 , a graphics driver  204 , the embedded graphics chip  15 , the external graphics chip  20 , the HDMI connector  2   j,  and the DVI connector  2   k.    
         [0157]    As shown in  FIG. 16 , in the case where the switching is performed with the mode selection switch  7 , the switching is transmitted from the mode selection switch  7  to the EC  16  (( 1 ) in  FIG. 16 ), and then transmitted to the utility software  201  through the system BIOS  203  and the FEP.sys  202  (( 2 ) to ( 4 ) in  FIG. 16 ). Thus, the utility software  201  can display the various dialogs (messages) described above. 
         [0158]      FIG. 17  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of a current switch position for the mode selection switch  7 . 
         [0159]    As shown in  FIG. 17 , the utility software  201  inquires of the EC  16  through the FEP.sys  202  and the system BIOS  203  as to the current switch position in the mode selection switch  7  (( 1 ) to ( 3 ) in  FIG. 17 ). In response to the inquiry, the EC  16  detects the current switch position from the mode selection switch  7  (( 4 ) in  FIG. 17 ), and transmits a result of the detection to the utility software  201  through the system BIOS  203  and the FEP.sys  202  (( 5 ) to ( 7 ) in  FIG. 17 ). 
         [0160]      FIG. 18  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks in a detection process of the connection between the external monitor and the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k.    
         [0161]    As shown in  FIG. 18 , in the case where the connection to the HDMI connector  2   j  or the DVI connector  2   k  is conducted, the fact is transmitted to the embedded graphics chip  15  or the external graphics chip  20  (( 1 ) in  FIG. 18 ), and further transmitted to the graphics driver  204  (( 2 ) in  FIG. 18 ). The graphics driver  204  transmits the connection to the system BIOS  203  (( 3 ) in 
         [0162]      FIG. 18 ), and the system BIOS  203  transmits the connection to the utility software  201  through the FEP.sys  202  (( 4 ) and ( 5 ) in  FIG. 18 ). 
         [0163]      FIG. 19  is a diagram showing the process flow of blocks at the time when the graphics chips are switched. 
         [0164]    As shown in  FIG. 19 , for example, when an event of clicking the OK button on the dialog is generated, the utility software  201  transmits an instruction for switching the graphic chips to the graphics driver through the FEP.sys  202  and the system BIOS  203  (( 1 ) to ( 3 ) in  FIG. 19 ). 
         [0165]    The graphics driver  204  performs initialization of the embedded graphics chip  15  or the external graphics chip  20  or turns on and off of the power thereof (( 4 ) in  FIG. 19 ), for example, and transmits an instruction for switching the graphics chips to the EC  16  through the system BIOS  203  (( 4 ) and ( 5 ) in  FIG. 19 ). Based on the instruction, the EC  16  causes the switching circuit  22  to switch the graphics chips (( 6 ) in  FIG. 19 ). 
         [0166]    Then, the graphics driver  204  transmits the completion of the switching process of the graphics chips to the system BIOS  203  (( 7 ) in  FIG. 19 ). The system BIOS  203  notifies the utility software  201  of the completion through the FEP.sys  202  (( 8 ) and ( 9 ) in  FIG. 19 ). Thus, the utility software  201  displays the message that indicates the setting completion of the power supply option. 
         [0167]    On the other hand, the system BIOS  203  also notifies the EC  16  of the completion. Based on the notification, the EC  16  causes the LED display  8  in accordance with the switched mode to light up. 
       (Conclusion) 
       [0168]    As described above, according to this embodiment, the PC  100  prepares the AUTO mode in addition to the STAMINA and SPEED modes, and therefore can automatically switch the embedded graphics chip  15  and the external graphics chip  20  in accordance with the connection condition to the external monitor with the HDMI or the DVI or a connection condition of the AC adapter  5 . Thus, the PC  100  can switch the two graphics chips safely and easily in accordance with the use purpose of the user. Further, if the switching of the modes may cause a trouble in the operation of the application, the PC  100  displays the name of the application and urges the termination of the application. Therefore, the PC  100  can further assure the user of the safety. 
       MODIFIED EXAMPLE 
       [0169]    The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be variously modified without departing from the gist of the present invention. 
         [0170]    In the above embodiment, the PC  100  can perform the forced switching even after the name of the application that may cause a trouble due to the mode switching is displayed, but such a forced switching may be completely inhibited. 
         [0171]    Further, in the case where the application that may cause a trouble due to the mode switching is present, the PC  100  may display a screen for urging an immediate termination of the application, or automatically store the task of the application and automatically terminate the application. 
         [0172]    The present application contains subject matter related to that disclosed in Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2010-007606 filed in the Japan Patent Office on Jan. 7, 2010, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
       REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 
       [0173]      2   a  operation input unit
   2   j  HDMI connector
   2   k  DVI connector
   3  display
 
         3   a  LCD 
       [0174]      5  AC adapter
 
 7  mode selection switch
 
 8  ( 8   a,    8   b,    8   c ) LED display
 
         11  CPU 
       [0175]      15  embedded graphics chip 
         16  EC 
       [0176]      20  external graphics chip 
         21  HDD 
       [0177]      22  switching circuit
 
 26  power supply circuit
 
 27  battery
 
 28  DC jack
 
         100  PC 
       [0178]      201  utility software
 
 204  graphics driver
 
 221 ,  231 ,  251 ,  271  OK button
 
 311  forced switching button