More than 150 companies involved in automotive electronics will showcase their latest products and capabilities during the Oct. 16-18 conference in Detroit. The following companies responded to AEI's request for information about what they will have on display.

Memory emulator
Accurate Technologies Inc.'s M5 Memory Emulator is the newest addition to the firm's powertrain-calibration and data-acquisition tools for 8-, 16-, and 32-bit PCMs. Combined with ATI's Vision software, the M5 is a true innovation in high-speed emulator technology. It provides a revolutionary memory access time of 18 ns and abundant onboard memory. The unit has 16 MB of flash for calibration storage and data logging, and 4 MB of true dual-port emulation RAM. The compact unit connects directly to a PC using a USB connection at 12 Mbaud. Ideal applications include the Motorola MPC5xx series processors, Siemens Tricore line, and Hitachi automotive processors.

Digital microphone technologies
Andrea Electronics Corp.'s patented digital microphone technologies enable suitable voice communications in the automobile environment through adaptive beam forming, beam steering, acoustic echo cancellation, and advanced noise-cancellation algorithms. These proprietary digital technologies are all highly scaleable and support a variety of DSP processors. Target markets include handheld mobile devices; cellular phones; automotive systems such as global positioning systems; auto PCs and telematics; personal digital assistants; and laptops and wearable PCs.

Unit test tool
Applied Dynamics International has announced the commercial release of BEACON's Automated Unit Test Tool, which makes rigorous unit testing a more affordable and practical option. The tool automates unit testing by providing test vectors intended to meet safety-critical guidelines. It provides expected results, unit coverage analysis statistics, and design metrics including complexity measures. To evaluate control strategies in a completely realistic environment, the company offers a Precision Prototyping Processor of the control system being developed. This product combines PowerPC-based processing with a select set of onboard I/O devices that assure faster development of a more robust control system.

Powered microcontrollers
With 32-bit performance at 8/16-bit costs, low power consumption, and industry-leading code density, ARM, Inc.'s Powered microcontrollers offer a combination of improved system performance, improved reliability, and reduced manufacturing costs. Extensions to the core CPU are available to fit particular application needs, such as DSP enhancements and floating point units. The powerful performance of these devices is easily scaleable through the company's continually evolving product road map. Designers working on next-generation system-on-chip designs can greatly reduce their development time and costs by using the company's variety of hard and soft IP macrocells that can be assembled rapidly into cost-effective, reliable designs. ARM's Advanced Microcontroller Bus Architecture specification also provides a well-proven methodology for the development of complex system-on-chip devices. ARM Powered products are available from more than 30 semiconductor companies.

Multimedia devices showcase
Automotive Multimedia Interface Collaboration will debut a proof-of-concept demonstration featuring a variety of vehicles from its members, each equipped with multimedia devices that will showcase several scenarios designed to highlight the flexibility and adaptability of the AMI-C specification. Demonstration devices will include an integrated cellular telephone, personal digital assistant, emergency call system, and compact disc changer. Each device will plug in and work by sharing information with other devices and vehicle systems. To assure compatibility, devices will be exchanged between vehicles to demonstrate the interoperability of both low-speed IDB-C^TM and high-speed networks. AMI-C is an industry collaboration of passenger and light truck vehicle manufacturers that represents approximately 97% of worldwide production.

Professional recruiting
The Barton Group serves the automotive industry recruiting technical, managerial, and executive personnel. The group specializes in electrical and mechanical engineering, manufacturing, sales, marketing, software design, information technology, purchasing, and quality. It professionally conducts searches with a determined focus, finding the most qualified candidates for top companies in industry. Its mission is to create lasting relationships with clients and candidates. Relationships are founded on fairness, respect, and the ability to function as a valued resource.

Insulated metal substrate
The Bergquist Co.'s latest thermal-management innovation, the Thermal Clad HTV, is a high-performance IMS that solves thermal management problems associated with shrinking packages and increasingly hostile environments. The product's improved properties, including reduced capacitance and greater durability, make it particularly suitable for automotive under-hood applications, high-voltage power supplies, offline switching power supplies, motor drives, solid-state relays, and industrial lighting. Both the Thermal Clad HTV and Thermal Clad are custom-configured to customer design requirements in the company's specialized circuits facility.

Personalized driving directions
BeVocal, Inc. can now deliver personalized information and services to consumers via Wireless Access Protocol phones. Support for fax and text paging is also scheduled to be made available. Callers nationwide who dial the toll-free number can verbally request information and then select how they would like it to be delivered. For example, callers can ask for driving directions, connect to BeVocal's WAP server at www.bevocal.com, and then read the turn-by-turn directions on their WAP phone.

Signal-processing software
Clarity's Clear Voice Capture signal-processing software technology identifies and captures the voice signal of interest in noisy environments and suppresses interfering background noise. This patent-pending technology is an audio signal extraction system using multiple microphones based on differential information and the statistical properties of independent signal sources. Such audio discrimination allows for identifying a single source or speech with a mixture of two or more signals, including background noise and other speakers' voices. The software improves the accuracy of speech-recognition software in command-and-control applications, optimizes bandwidth in cellular communications, and improves the human intelligibility of speech. Applications include hands-free cellular and command-and-control systems, as well as voice-based navigation systems and in-vehicle mobile rescue communications. The software is also effective against virtually all types of noise, and captures natural speech free of distortions.

Electronics systems
Dana Corp.'s Motors and Electronic Systems Group designs and manufacturers key subsystems and modules by integrating speed and position sensors, motors, and electronic controls. Products range from powertrain management devices including engine speed controls, cam/crankshaft sensors, and electronic throttle controls to cooling-on-demand and accessory drives that include electric water pumps and oil pump subsystems. A new ride-height sensor module is a rugged, noncontacting Hall-effect programmable sensor. The sensor is programmed as an assembly before shipping, thus enabling tight tolerances. To eliminate suspension packaging tolerances, the sensor can be reprogrammed after installation. The linkage may be rotated 360°, and is available in varying lengths. This module can provide an analog or a pulse-width modulated signal.

Electronics products showcase
Delphi Automotive Systems' electronically enhanced product portfolio includes product enhancements in the areas of communication, safety, and vehicle performance. The company's display will feature its Communiport line of technologies, which includes the Mobile Productivity Center and Communiport Infotainment PC with navigation, e-mail, Web browsing, voice memo, hands-free cell phone, voice recognition, and text-to-speech technologies. Other products to be featured include the 42-V Energen Energy Management Systems and a solid oxide fuel cell that provides high-power solutions to the growing electrical energy demands of next-generation vehicles with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. Also included in the portfolio of products to be displayed is X-by-Wire Technologies, a family of braking, steering, throttle, and suspension control systems that increase fuel economy up to 5%, improve acceleration, and add safety with power steering even during an engine stall.

Design and test software
Diversified Software Industries' V1.0 In-Vehicle Information System is a platform-independent application framework and supporting tool for designing, testing, and developing in-vehicle applications on various displays. The development tool set is an intuitive Windows-style drag-and-drop environment that requires minimal training. The tool set, combined with the company's proprietary Embedded Graphic Libraries, offers a true paradigm shift in how applications in the vehicle will be presented and how these applications are developed for in-vehicle use. With its patent-pending architecture that provides abstraction layers, the company offers platform independence and data management not available with traditional frameworks. The company specializes in offering the complete development and project management of software needs for all types of applications, from wireless to in-vehicle solutions.

Engineering polymers
DuPont Automotive continues a tradition of innovation by offering a comprehensive inventory of engineering polymers for the automotive industry. The company provides high-quality polymers for an expansive list of electrical/electronic automotive applications including power network boxes, connectors, electric motors, actuators, sensors, solenoids, switches, and relays, along with ignition and lighting systems. The firm's global network of technical and development specialists deliver nylon- and polyester-based materials solutions for the many challenges faced by E/E engineers, including the production of more intricate, thin-walled parts.

Encapsulant and adhesive solutions
Emerson & Cuming offer a complete range of encapsulant and adhesive solutions for use in a wide variety of automotive electronic applications. These specialty conductive and nonconductive adhesives combine tough durable bonds of dissimilar materials with the ability to withstand the temperature extremes required for automotive use. The encapsulant systems provide superior protection of delicate electronic components in harsh environments typically encountered in automotive applications. These materials have been designed specifically for sensor applications and provide stress and thermal management for enhanced design latitude.

Multipurpose accelerometers
First Technology's accelerometers were designed to sense ±2-g acceleration changes, as well as sense change in inclination. The units are found typically in GPS/navigation, dynamic vehicle suspension, and anti-theft systems. Extensive accelerated life testing ensures operation under extreme conditions. The units meet or exceed demanding automotive performance requirements. Advanced features include surface-mount technology, rugged plastic protective housing. Single, dual, and tri-axis models are available. The accelerometers provide mounting flexibility and are sealed from moisture and dust.

Subminiature automotive relay
Fujitsu Takamisawa America, Inc. has expanded its subminiature FBR-50 automotive relay series with the addition of a high-power model to address long-life-expectancy lamp load and motor applications such as cornering taillamps, hazard lamps, and engine cooling fans and blowers. Capable of switching a maximum 80-A inrush current, the FBR51NDxx-WL is rated at 14 V dc-115 W for 200,000 operations. Its maximum carrying current is 35 A/h at 20°C at rated coil voltage. The relay features a new structural design that reduces bounce significantly to enhance performance for lamp loads. The use of high-conductive materials allows the relay to be sealed in approximately a 1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2-in enclosure and capable of an operating temperature of -40° to +85°C. Available with 6-, 9-, 10-, or 12-V dc coils, the relay comes in an SPST-NO configuration.

Engineering solutions
IAV is one of the world's largest full-service providers for automotive engineering solutions in the design, prototyping, and development process of vehicles and powertrains. In its three business areas — engines/drives, automotive electronics, and vehicle development — the firm provides turnkey developments for nearly all aspects of automotive engineering. This includes software/algorithm design and calibration of embedded controls, as well as drive-by-wire, mobile multimedia, and telematics. Work can be performed in-house via the firm's extensive facilities and unique ISO-certified methods, which result in an unmatched quality and cost-effectiveness, while ensuring the highest degree of confidentiality.

Temperature-sensing MOSFET
International Rectifier introduces the TempSENSE HEXFET power MOSFET, which can provide cost-effective temperature sensing for automotive system protection by using an on-chip temperature-sensing diode. The IRLBD59N04E is a 40-V, 20-m_, N-channel MOSFET. Temperature sensing is provided by two anti-parallel electrically isolated poly-silicon diodes that forward voltage falls to approximately 0.4 V with a bias current of 250 µA when the MOSFET reaches a maximum permitted temperature value. The new device meets the rigid Q101 automotive stress test qualification procedure at 175°C. The Q101 certification process is designed to ensure high reliability component performance in harsh automotive environments. The temperature rating is necessary for engine compartment and other high-temperature applications. The MOSFET is well suited for electric power-assist steering, anti-lock brakes, and fuel injection systems, as well as power door locks, window lifts, and car audio circuits.

Battery health
The Smart Energy Management System from iQ Power monitors and controls the states of charge and health of 12-V lead-acid automotive batteries. The microprocessor- and software-operated system was developed by the firm's Munich-based German R&D subsidiary, which has links to leading German car manufacturers. The system not only optimizes battery performance at any time, but also is able to communicate battery data via the dc powerline to the car's onboard computer and dashboard, thus saving extra bus cabling. The system also works with upcoming 42-V powernets and with 36-V batteries.

Integrated interior
Johnson Controls develops and supplies integrated interior electronic and electrical systems with emphasis on interior integration, human integration, and peer partnering. The company offers information systems, which include PathPoint Digital Compass with GPS, a reconfigurable instrument cluster display; RearVision safety system; and PSI tire pressure monitoring. Its electrical systems feature i-Seating, door electronics and switching, integrated white-LED lighting, and 42-V advanced power systems. Entertainment systems include AutoVision, rear-seat entertainment with Internet connectivity, and the company's infotainment systems. Connectivity systems include BlueConnect hands-free cellular, HomeLink universal transceiver, and TravelNote digital voice recorder with Sony Memory Stick.

Modular system architecture
Kostal of America, Inc. provides the needed architecture for the electrical requirements of a modular system, including design, development, and production of electromechanical electronic and sensor products for automotive systems.

Common architecture
A common architecture strategy from Lear Corp. makes mass customization of vehicle interiors feasible. The end result could provide the customer with unprecedented freedom to create a unique vehicle interior. The strategy is based on a standardized common structure that supports the use of interchangeable, modular components built from the same substructures. The ability to customize could occur not only when the consumer initially orders a vehicle but also throughout the ownership experience. Also developed by Lear are the TransG (transgenerational) seat designed for the maturing population; the OASys overhead audio system, which turns the entire headliner of a vehicle into a speaker; ultra-lightweight rear seats for the Audi A2; and new polymers for interior applications offering enhanced occupant safety, cost savings, and weight reduction.

Current transducers
LEM U.S.A. Inc.'s current transducer technology aids automotive electric power steering. The open-loop current transducer consists of three parts: the ASIC, a magnetic circuit, and a housing, enabling it to perform all electrical, magnetic, and mechanical functions. This device provides acceptable measurement accuracy over the required temperature range and resistance to external RF interference, while avoiding excessive power dissipation.

Software for vehicle design
The MathWorks family of products is used throughout the vehicle design cycle process — from initial concept, design, simulation, testing, and documentation to code generation for rapid prototyping and hardware-in-the-loop simulation. These products are used extensively by OEMs and suppliers in the powertrain, body electronics, and chassis areas. Simulink is the graphical, block-diagram environment for modeling and simulating dynamic nonlinear systems. Stateflow adds complex event-driven logic to Simulink models using finite state machine concepts and flow diagrams. Real-Time Workshop provides the automatic code generation of Simulink models. MATLAB allows users to interactively explore, analyze, design, and prototype solutions to their problems.

Programmable automotive IR system
Built to QS-9000 standards, Melexis offers a micro-machined membrane IR thermopile, the MLX90247, and the MLX90313, its matching IR sensor amplified chip with built-in calibration. When combined with the digital signal processing and programmability of the MLX90313, the MLX90247 allows resolution sensitivity to 0.01°C. There can be a savings of approximately 50% when comparing the combination to a discrete IR sensing solution. Automotive applications center on HVAC systems in which the system design seeks to read the body temperature of each passenger and adjust temperature zones accordingly. The company designs and manufactures advanced integrated semiconductors, sensor ICs, and programmable sensor IC systems.

Read/write transponder module
Expanding its packaging options for the highly secure KEELOQ devices, Microchip Technology Inc. offers its HCS410/WM read/write transponder module in a small, tapered SOT-384 leadless wedge package. Incorporating the company's patented KEELOQ technology, the robust dual-encryption key device provides high security in an integrated transponder package solution. The SOT-384 package, featuring a single chamfered corner, increases the level of security required in such systems. Applications for the transponder module include access control systems, automotive immobilizers, electronic door locks, burglar alarm systems, proximity access control, and authentication of expendable brand-name items. The module is available in easy-to-implement, robust, leadless wedge modules.

Micromachined gyro
MicroSensors, Inc.'s microelectrome-chanical systems product, the silicon MicroRing Gyro, is a micromachined single-axis device based on the Coriolis principle. The MRG is designed for applications involving automotive stability, navigation, and airbag control. The device features low cost (<$20/axis), low current (<15 mA), high resolution (<0.1 °/s), and an operating temperature range of -40° to +85° C. Initial engineering samples are available Q1 2001 and production starts Q3 2001.

Radio features wireless multimedia
Motorola's iRadio is an in-vehicle wireless multimedia delivery system — an end-to-end solution that combines entertainment, information, navigation, emergency calling, and other communication capabilities. In addition, the company's automotive embedded solutions provide lower manufacturing costs, reduced cycle time, and a smarter end product. Digital DNA technology, Motorola's advanced electronics systems, enhances the adage that a vehicle is an extension of its owner. The company's "My Car Knows........." theme illustrates how vehicles containing its electronics work smarter and can be tailored to the driver's needs.

Fingerprint sensor
Omron Automotive Electronics, Inc.'s fingerprint sensor can be adapted to a variety of customized vehicle functions, such as recognition of seat position, steering wheel position, and audio preferences. It has a false rejection rate of less than 0.01%. Conference attendees can register their fingerprint and then test the sensor on an instrument panel that will recognize the same fingerprint. Other products to be displayed from the company's major product divisions include relays, sensors, switches, and electronic control units.

Power management solutions
ON Semiconductor, formerly a division of Motorola, will display power management solutions for a variety of automotive applications including focused items in powertrain, HVAC, power mirrors, body control, and multiplexing. Application demonstrations include 42-V system capability. Various packaging solutions for power management will also be shown. Present will be representatives from the company's Analog Integrated Circuits, MOS-gated Power, and Bipolar divisions. ON Semiconductor is QS-9001 approved.

Real-time simulation
Opal-RT offers comprehensive solutions to reduce cost and development time for complex real-time systems, such as scaleable real-time simulation and control, including hardware-in-the-loop simulation. The company's RT-LAB software enables high-end simulation and control, as well as scaling from embedded control to parallel distributed computing, all on commercial-off-the-shelf platforms. The software offers data acquisition and analysis, rapid control prototyping, software integration testing, system validation using hardware-in-the-loop simulation, and complex plant simulation using distributed shared memory. Compatible with MATLAB/Simulink and MATRIXx SystemBuild, the software is available for WinNT and QNX targets.

Interconnect solutions
Parlex Corp. provides cost-effective flexible interconnect solutions for numerous automotive applications. The company has developed several technologies, which include AutoNet, PALFlex, PALCore HP, PALCoat, and Polysolder. AutoNet is a low-cost, lightweight and reliable flexible interconnect designed to replace traditional wire harnesses. PALFlex is an adhesiveless polyimide-based material that provides good performance at a low cost. PALCore is a low-cost, flexible multilayer material. PALCoat is an alternative cover layer that provides the electrical and physical characteristics required for a new generation of products at a low cost. Polysolder is a lead-free, conductive adhesive used to attach electronic components to traditional materials or low-cost substrates.

‘Smart' battery current sensor
PowerSmart Inc.'s highly integrated Smart Battery current sensor product is intended for starting hybrid, 42-V, and heavy-duty vehicles. The SmartShunt, which is available in a range of amperage ratings, uses the company's proprietary ASIC technology with an integrated circuit mounting to provide local A/D in any vehicle battery application. High accuracy and a wide dynamic range are combined with customized battery models to give current, voltage, state of charge, and battery health information. PowerSmart's Systems Division is a developer and supplier of "smart" battery technology that uses highly accurate data collection and customized software to provide complete "smart" battery solutions for hybrid and electric vehicle battery management systems, and 12-, 24-, and 42-V starting batteries. Its role is to provide engineering and design services that enable battery manufacturers, OEMs, and assemblers to develop "smart" batteries in these applications.

Pressure sensor
SensoNor's SP17 is a low-cost, miniature piezoresistive silicon pressure sensor with internal temperature and signal compensation. The sensor has good media compatibility and insulations. Without the use of membranes or coatings, the sensor can handle diesel fumes, brake fluid engine coolant, and refrigerants, as well as other media. The sensor is available for operating temperature ranges of -40° to +125°C. It is also available in different pressure ranges from 1.5 to 500 psi. The company manufactures high-volume, integrated, application-specific OEM sensors for acceleration, tilt, angular rate, and pressure for the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries. Pressure sensors are used in tire-pressure monitoring systems and MAP/BAP applications, among others. Accelerometers are used in airbag applications, shook detection, and guidance systems.

Extended temperature TFT-LCDs and LEDs
Sharp Electronics Corp. offers leading-edge technologies in extended-temperature TFT-LCDs and LEDs, which are being developed in QS-9000-certified factories. A full line of displays is available for every application in a vehicle, including HUD, clusters, consoles, and rear seat. Digital and analog-RGB/NTSC composite interfaces, extended temperature ranges, wider viewing angles, high brightness, transflective displays, and extended-life backlights are all available in current products.

Flexible circuits
Sheldahl, Inc. will feature its product line of flexible circuits and assemblies, chip packaging substrates, high-performance laminates, and tapes. The company designs and manufactures solutions for next-generation automotive electronics, including circuitry and electronic materials for infotronic and "smart" safety equipment, antennas, horn switches, ECUs, instrument clusters, sensors, power and signal distribution, shielding, driver interface systems, navigation systems, and modular-assembly interconnects. Sheldahl also produces materials and adhesives technology for applications such as flat cable and barrier tapes. It provides a range of value-added assembly capability, such as surface mount on flex, crimping, wave soldering, hand soldering, bare board and functional electrical testing, and a variety of connector attachments.

Design and simulation software
SIMEC Corp.'s SIMPLORER is design and simulation software for complex technical systems. SIMPLORER's Simulation Back Plane allows the simultaneous analysis of circuits, block diagrams, state machines, and user-defined models. The C/C++ programming interface allows for easy creation of such models as the access to the solver matrix. Typical applications are power electronics, drives, motion control, electromagnetic sensors/actuators, and MEMS. The software also offers direct integration of a Finite Element Solver for electromagnetic problems. Various libraries, such as mechanical and hydraulic systems, are available. SIMPLORER VHDL-A makes the software a good solution for automotive applications.

Satellite radio broadcasting
Sirius Satellite Radio is building a subscription-based, digital satellite radio broadcasting system. The firm has formed strategic alliances with leading technology companies to build the necessary infrastructure. It plans to revolutionize and revitalize in-vehicle entertainment by broadcasting customized programming on up to 100 channels, 50 of them devoted to commercial-free music. Sirius has formed partnerships with Ford Motor Co. and DaimlerChrysler, and has signed receiver development agreements with Alpine, Delphi Delco, Panasonic, and Recoton. The Sirius-1 satellite was launched in June 2000; two more launches are scheduled in Q3 2000.

Static consistency software
Tarragon Embedded Technology, a specialist automotive software company, will introduce its static consistency checker for Simulink to the automotive community. The tool checks Simulink models for compliance with a coding style guide. It has a GUI front end, produces reports of results, and enables interactive fixing of errors. Use of the tool makes the process of reviewing a Simulink model much quicker and more effective than manual review alone.

Fine wire wound coils
TransERA Electronics Inc. produces all types of fine wire wound coils for the automotive industry. Open, overmolded, and encapsulated components, from very simple to complex, are produced for a wide variety of sensing and control applications in the mid- to high-volume range. The company works in partnership with customers, mold-makers, and automation experts to reduce development time and expense on new products, prototype runs, and production parts.

Navigation and route guidance
CoPilot, a GPS navigation and route guidance system from TravRoute, powers drivers with real-time turn-by-turn directions to any address nationwide, street-level map detail for the entire continental United States, and nearly 3 million points of interest including restaurants, hotels, and golf courses. With its two-way voice technology, advanced GPS satellite tracking, and dynamic route recalculation for missed turns, the system improves productivity, reduces costs, and saves time on the road.

Engineering and test facilities
Capabilities of Trialon Corp.'s certified A2LA engineering and test facilities include temperature cycling, thermal shock, cycled temperature/humidity, salt fog/salt spray, autoclave, dust, vibration, shock, squeak and rattle, EMI/EMC, ESD, and electrical transients to GM, Ford, and DaimlerChrysler specifications. Tests are performed for tensile strength, compression force, materials testing, impact testing, flammability, resistance to chemicals, mechanical fixture design and fabrication, circuit board design and assembly, and specialized tests.

TTP communication technology
TTTech Computertechnik AG's TTP Evaluation Cluster is a complete system for TTP prototyping, evaluation, and development projects. The cluster hardware is based on TTPnodes mounted in a rack and one extra node (TTPmonitor node) for real-time TTP/C bus monitoring and download. Each TTPnode is equipped with the TTP/C communication controller. In addition to TTP/C, a variety of interfaces are supported: TTP/A, CAN, Ethernet, digital I/O, and analog inputs. The cluster can be ordered in configurations from four to 64 nodes. The TTPtools software provides a complete TTP Software Development environment.

Web-based dc-dc converter design
Vicor Corp.'s Vicor Design Assistance Computer is a system that enables its customers to specify online, and verify in real time, the performance and attributes of custom second-generation dc-dc converters. The patented expert system accepts user-defined converter specifications and, in conjunction with the full database of components available to the company's automated manufacturing lines, generates an optimal design. This design is downloaded directly into the company's computer-integrated manufacturing system. VDAC is available to the user over the Internet any time. Based on user-entered design parameters such as input voltage range, output voltage set point, output power and operating temperature, and mechanical variations, the system will generate all valid, manufacturable designs that meet the specifications. It then selects the optimum design and creates the bill of material, test parameters, test limits, and work instructions needed by Vicor's CIM system to direct the production of the product.

Telematics products
Visteon Corp.'s ICES in-car computing platform enables drivers to access the Internet to check e-mail and to obtain real-time information such as news, weather reports, and stock quotes. This system also provides drivers with turn-by-turn navigation. Visteon Voice Technology is a technology for voice control of features ranging from audio and climate control to the ICES system. Rear-seat entertainment is a fully integrated mobile entertainment system designed to keep kids and rear-seat passengers entertained with movies, video games, or music. 42-V technology meets the increased energy demands of future vehicles.

Automotive industry in Wales
Wales is an advanced automotive supply region in the U.K. The industry has particular strengths in the engine, brake, steering, exhaust, and HVAC sectors. More than 150 automotive companies operate in Wales, including 40 Tier 1 suppliers or potential systems suppliers. Major automotive companies located there include Ford Motor Co., Visteon, TRW, Borg-Warner, Exide, Robert Bosch, Valeo, Toyota, Meritor, and Dana. The Welsh automotive component sector employs more than 25,000 people and generates annual sales of $35 billion. The automotive industry has accounted for $3.5 billion of inward investment in Wales since 1983.

Software for ‘smart' devices
Wind River provides software development tools, real-time operating systems, and advanced connectivity for use in products throughout the Internet, tele/data communications, digital imaging, networking, medical, computer peripherals, automotive, and aerospace/defense markets.

Multiplex semiconductors
YAMAR Electronics Ltd.'s DC-BUS devices reduce the amount of wiring in the automobile, lower its weight and cost, simplify the installation, and enable flexible car electronics architecture. The devices add a new physical layer for the existing standardized buses such as CAN, IDB-C^TM, and J1850, allowing them to use the battery line as an alternative 10-250 kbps communication media without modification of the existing software. Implementation of sophisticated digital communication techniques within a single low-cost semiconductor can overcome the hostile communication environment of the battery lines.

Intellectual property forum
yet2.com is the first global forum for buying and selling intellectual property on the Internet. A virtual technology trading floor, yet2.com offers companies and individuals the opportunity to purchase, sell, license, and research some of the world's most valuable intellectual assets. Spanning all industries and areas of R&D, the forum lets technology officers, scientists, and researchers unearth cutting-edge discoveries as well as new applications for existing technologies.