Laptop Computer Recharging Using Ethernet Connection

Abstract

One embodiment disclosed relates to a laptop computer system including a display casing, having display circuitry and a display screen, and a main computer casing coupled to the display casing. The main computer casing includes a battery power source, a charging regulator, and an Ethernet-type connector. The battery power source is coupled to a motherboard switching regulator. The charging regulator is coupled to the battery power source and configured to recharge the battery power source. The Ethernet-type connector coupled to the charging regulator and configured to provide power thereto.

1 - 20 . (canceled) 
   
   
       21 . A networked power demultiplexer device for a portable computer system, the device comprising:
 an input configured to connect to networked power;   a first output configured to connect to a network input of the portable computer system;   a second output configured to connect to a power input of the portable computer system; and   demultiplexer circuitry to direct network signals from the input to the first output and to direct power from the input to the second output.   
   
   
       22 . The device of  claim 21 , further comprising:
 voltage-conversion circuitry configured to convert the power from the input to a predetermined voltage level.   
   
   
       23 . The device of  claim 22 , wherein the power from the input is at a voltage level above 40 volts. 
   
   
       24 . The device of  claim 22 , wherein the predetermined voltage level is less than 20 volts. 
   
   
       25 . The device of  claim 22 , wherein the power from the input is at a voltage level above 40 volts, and the predetermined voltage level is less than 20 volts.