We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Hardware

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Power Management Unit?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 9,420
Share

The power management unit, or PMU, is a type of microcontroller that is associated with the configuration of computers manufactured by Apple. Essentially, the power management unit controls the power functions on the computer. Currently, all Apple computers make use of a power management unit.

It is helpful to think of the power management unit as a very powerful microchip. Within the context of the function of an Apple computer, this microchip covers the functions supported by other types of components in other brands of computers. Some examples would include software, firmware, and memory capacity. Along with these three key components, a power management unit also provides for analog to digital conversion functions and even includes a CPU.

This broad range of support allows the power management unit to coordinate a number of essential tasks that keep the computer operational. For example, the PMU will constantly monitor the status of any power connections that are presently engaged. At the same time, the unit will monitor the status of the battery and initiate charging automatically if needed. The status of various system components is evaluated on a recurring basis, allowing the power management unit to shut down any component that has been idle for a significant period of time.

The power management unit is somewhat sensitive to sudden changes in power. For example, if the battery is in use and is allowed to run down, this may impact the function of the unit. In like manner, plugging a power cord into an outlet and then plugging the cord into the computer may cause the unit to malfunction. For this reason, users should read the operations manual thoroughly and avoid actions that could negatively impact the performance of the unit.

As with any type of computer component, it is possible for a power management unit to become corrupted. Some common signs that the unit is not functioning correctly would include a failure to initiate a recharging session for the battery or an inability to recognize devices connected to a USB port, such as a jump drive or a printer. In some cases, simple resetting the power management unit will clear up the problems. However, if the reset does not work, there is a good chance that the unit will have to be replaced.

Share
EasyTechJunkie is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including EasyTechJunkie, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.easytechjunkie.com/what-is-a-power-management-unit.htm
Copy this link
EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

EasyTechJunkie, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.