ELECTRONIC TEST EQUIPMENT FOR THE 80'S (AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTICS)

Recent electronic component developments are summarized which will enable the development of a new family of electronic automotive test equipment in the 1980's: microprocessors and associated components, display systems, voice synthesizers, and printers. Chrysler's Universal Electronic Engine Performance Analyzer (U-EEPA) is described as representative of equipment for the early 1980's. This microprocessor-based diagnostic machine executes preprogrammed test sequences, provides test results, and gives repair instructions to the mechanic. Modules to supplement U-EEPA in the 1982-1983 time frame are outlined; add-ons include testing of automatic transmission, air conditioning, emissions, and electrical equipment located outside the engine compartment. The current trend toward on-board diagnostics is mentioned, as well as the growing interest in signature analysis for diagnosing problems with digital devices. A closer interface between automotive dealerships and manufacturers for parts supply is envisioned for the mid to late 1980's. A possible configuration for the future is suggested: an integrated complex of on-board diagnostics and local off-board diagnostics with access to a central diagnostic data base. This is expected to decrease the need for failure specialists, reduce repair time, and increase customer confidence.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Conference held in Dearborn, Michigan, 15-17 September 1980. Also published in HS-030 396 (IEEE-80CH1601-4; SAE-SP-90), "Convergence 80. IEEE Vehicular Technology Society Annual Conference (30th), International Conference on Transportation Electronics Proceedings," Utica, Michigan, 1980.
• Corporate Authors:

  Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

  Operations Center, 445 Hoes Lane, P.O. Box 1331
  Piscataway, NJ  United States  08855-1331

  Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

  400 Commonwealth Drive
  Warrendale, PA  United States  15096
• Authors:
  • Henley, W F
  • Toney, J
• Publication Date: 1980

Media Info

• Pagination: 4 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automobiles; Diagnosis; Diagnostic tests; Electronic equipment; Information display systems; Microprocessors; Onboard navigational aids; Printers; Self evaluation; Speech; Testing equipment; Voice communication
• Old TRIS Terms: Displays; Electronic devices; On board; Self testing
• Subject Areas: Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00381393
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: IEEE-80CH1601-4, HS-030 417, SAE-SP-90
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Feb 29 1984 12:00AM