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Thermal Management For High Performance Processor Systems

Overview: As the processors, memory and ASICs of today's systems are pushed to higher performance in more enclosed spaces, processor thermal management is quickly becoming a limiting design factor. One of the essential tools in optimizing processor performance is the Remote Diode Temperature Sensor. However, this tool must be understood to be used properly. Without proper applications techniques a ±1°C temperature sensor may yield a ±7°C accuracy or worse in addition to needlessly tying down various system monitors. When monitoring a system using remote diode temperature sensor, the system designer must understand the applications, advantages, and limitations of the device.

This presentation addresses concepts in keeping processors cool, with minimal system loading through understanding remote diode temperature sensing.

Length: 60 minutes

Published Date: March 2002

Topics covered in this online seminar include:

  • Fundamentals of thermal management for processors
  • Theory behind remote diode temperature measurement ICs
  • Obstacles in the measurement technique, trace resistance and non-ideality, and how to address them
  • Applications techniques in order to help insure the best performance possible from your sensor
  • Features of temperature sensors that allow for system monitoring with out processor intervention

Presenters: Christopher Stensager obtained a BSEE from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington in 1997. Since then, he has worked in Silicon Valley in the areas of electronics design and manufacturing. For the past two years he has specialized in remote diode temperature sensing at National Semiconductor, extensively involved in the development of National's more accurate "Next generation" temperature sensors.

Emmy Denton is a staff engineer in National Semiconductor's Data Conversion Systems Group in Santa Clara CA working with temperature sensors and hardware monitors.


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Thermal Management For High Performance Processor Systems