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In-vehicle networks provide an efficient medium to share information between controllers, sensors and actuators. Networks may be comprised of subnetworks to support low, medium and high speed data-rate requirements or SAE CLASS A, B and C, respectively. These subnetworks can be linked using bridges or gateways to guarantee data consistency across the vehicle. This paper will describe a method to bridge an implementation of J1850, CLASS B to an implementation of the Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, CLASS C. The hardware and software elements of the bridge are discussed.

The use of microcomputers in automotive applications has placed new requirements on programmers. Programmers must protect their software against flaws in the hardware system in which it is operating. Various techniques for writing “fail-safe software” have been developed, and are discussed in this paper.

In recent years the functionality of automotive systems has been improved by the introduction of real time Electronic Control Units (ECUs) for engine management, anti-lock braking, and other applications. For customer comfort and convenience, body electronics options have also increased, including electronic windows, seat control, and others. Optimization of performance requires integrating the vehicle of the 90s as a system rather than a grouping of individual modules. As a result, inter - communication between real time ECUs as well as between body electronics modules is required. By linking vehicle electronics into a network or combination of networks, a cost-effective solution which guarantees required performance and maximum flexibility may be obtained.

Intel has been a major supplier of EPROMs since pioneering them in 1970. The EPROM, not intended for use in read/write applications, proved useful in research and development for prototyping. The EPROM market consisted almost exclusively of development labs in the mid- 70's. As the fabrication process matured and volumes increased, EPROMs' lower prices became attractive even for medium-volume production applications. Today, with new packaging technologies and continued improvements in processing, the EPROM fulfills high-volume manufacturers' needs for dedicated firmware. This paper discusses the role of plastic, one-time-programmable (OTP), EPROMs. It will cover the reliability aspects, cost advantages and compatibility with Intel's Quick-Pulse Programming™ algorithm that is being offered with Intel's OTP™ EPROMs. The paper concludes with a few comments on future trends including surface-mount technology and CMOS EPROMs.

Automotive applications of microprocessor technology can benefit from using high technology solutions. Advanced silicon processing technology allows lower manufacturing cost for components, while improving reliability. Highly integrated single-chip microcontrollers provide cost-effective systems through the minimizing of chip count and packaging. Proper software and hardware support minimizes the system development cost and time to market.

Avionic systems based on next generation microprocessors will be mixed voltage designs. Next generation microprocessors have a low voltage power supply and interface, but most of the avionics-grade support logic will remain standard voltage devices in the near term. The mixture of integrated circuit voltage technologies poses some unique problems to the avionics designer. The paper will present some fundamental techniques for designing mixed voltage, microprocessor-based avionics systems. Included will be techniques for interfacing devices of different voltage technologies and the creation of an accurate low voltage power supply.

When looking into using PCMCIA PC Cards in the avionics market, three areas must be researched. The first is what are the applications and benefits of using the PC Cards while in flight, followed by the applications and benefits on the ground, and thirdly on how to make a PC Card that would stand up to the rugged avionics environment. PCMCIA PC Cards can be used in all aspects of flight. Three possible applications on the ground are; paperless documentation, modifications, flightline changes. Once airborne, PC Cards can be removed and a different functionality card can be inserted. One PC card socket can be used for many different functions during one flight. Some of the possible applications for PC Cards inflight are; flight plan changes, backup Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), and solid state data collection.