Smartphone CPU Clockspeed to Benefit from Micro-Cryogenic Coolers

ENSCHEDE, Netherlands – Researchers from the University of Twente have come up with a new micro-sized cryogenic cooler that can be fitted in small electronic devices.

This form of cryo-cooler can be used to address the overheating problem in smartphones. Smartphones with higher processing speed are known for their ability to heat up easily which in turn can be a troublesome experience for the users. A small cooler fitted inside the device can stabilize the processor without compromising on its speed.

Desktop processor overclocking relies on cooling, with competition-grade systems using nitrogen to bring systems down to 200 degree Celsius. The same model can be used to smartphones and tablets, but on a smaller scale, perhaps to multiply the current processor speeds without a change in the actual processor.

The micro-sized cryogenic cooler works on the Joule Thomson effect. As per this principle, the temperature drop is brought down by causing a high-pressure gas to expand when it travels from a high pressure region to a low pressure region. The micro-sized cryo-cooler developed through this processor can cool down the electronic devices down to 30K (-243 degree Celsius) within an hour.

Researchers also hope that this cryogenic micro cooler can be produced on a large scale basis for a relatively low price. When the cost of production is low, this technology can be applied in a wide range of fields including electronic devices.  Moreover, the simple design fabricated by the researchers helps in narrowing down the size of the cooler in order to fit easily within small electronic devices.