Microchips and the changing state of the car
Microchips and the changing state of the car
The same semiconductor factories that have existed for years can still produce consumer, automotive, industrial, military and aerospace equipment, but as cars become more complex, the need to handle more automotive functions and smarter semiconductors means more Chips and circuit boards, or we need more highly integrated functional devices that can handle the various tasks thrown at them. This challenge affects basic car functions as new entertainment, navigation, safety and comfort systems emerge to appeal to potential car buyers.
When the chip goes down, the push goes up, and that's exactly what Microchip Technology is doing today. Microchip Technology positions itself as a leader in the automotive industry through more integrated engine control, timing, analog functions and infotainment systems. Microchip Technology provides automakers with stronger offerings in multiple areas of interest by introducing more targeted product lines for automotive needs. This includes a range of processors, new infotainment equipment, new timing equipment and new front-end analog gear. Expanded vehicle dynamics will attract automakers to incorporate new, more integrated, targeted capabilities into a one-stop shop for easy integration and plug-and-play functionality.
For decades, cars have operated without solid-state technology. Magnetic ignition systems work without semiconductors. Coarse rotation of the dispenser cap sets the time. The carburetor mixes air and fuel without oxygen sensors and injectors, and even the voltage regulator operates mechanically to keep the car's electrical system in check and charge the battery. There are no power door locks, power windows, heated seats, backup cameras or a navigation system, and the entertainment system has just a simple AM/FM radio.
Today, modern trends in comfort, luxury, entertainment, automatic safety systems and autonomous driving are selling cars. These are driving the demand for increasingly complex processors and ubiquitous embedded electronics. This includes procedures required for basic operation of the engine and transmission, communication systems, safety systems, entertainment systems, etc.
More than just consumer goods
Unlike basic consumer electronics, automotive electronics need to survive in harsher environments. This includes hotter and cooler temperatures, excess humidity and moisture, constant shock and vibration, possible exposure to severe chemicals and solutions, and better immunity to ESD, EMI, and power fluctuations. As a result, automotive-grade electronic components and chips are more robust than those used in living room TVs.
Like avionics systems, automotive electronics also need to withstand load dump conditions. While aerospace requirements are more stringent, automotive electronics require reverse polarity, overvoltage, overcurrent, and ESD protection. Additionally, automotive electronics require some form of redundancy. For example, if the ABS controller fails, the brakes still need to work. If the engine sensor fails, the engine should compensate and put itself into "limp home" mode. Self-tests and indicators are required to alert the driver if approach or blind spot detectors fail. Fault detection and reporting systems need to be more robust, which satisfies the need for more dedicated and distributed processors and communication networks.
As with fly-by-wire systems used in modern aircraft, automotive networks such as CAN and LIN connect critical and non-critical systems. This could allow the infotainment system to communicate as an alert system to indicate faults and service needs. It also highlights the need for small 8-bit dedicated processors to 32-bit high-end multi-core real-time automotive computer chips. Microchip technology to the rescue.
