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Automotive Computers: Changing How Cars Are Built

Computers are interwoven into most facets of our lives. We socialize on the Internet, write with word processors, set our budgets with spreadsheet programs and listen to music from MP3 players. The list goes on and on. With that in mind, is it really surprising that computers are now an integral part of the cars we drive?

Computers weren't nearly as important in automotives two decades ago. Times have changed. Cars built nowadays can contain nearly 50 microprocessors that control or regulate a variety of functions ranging from emissions output to air and fuel mixtures. In addition to the computers built into the car, today's automobile's contain numerous other computerized devices, such as GPS mapping systems, which are often considered as bells and whistles.

Computers found in today's automobiles include:

Diagnostics tools: Not too long ago, skilled mechanics were needed to hunt down and locate the problems in cars that weren't operating properly. While that's still the case with many vehicles, an increasing number of new automobiles come with built-in diagnostic computers that can instantly pinpoint components that aren't working properly. For high-end foreign cars, this actually allows vehicle problems to be diagnosed by mechanics in other countries. This technology is slowly but surely making its way into the mainstream automotive world.

Emissions regulation computers: The wrong mixture of chemicals in the combustion process can cause vehicles to emit unsafe amounts of emissions. These vehicle computers are tasked with regulating the emissions from vehicles at certain levels. These computers can also help mechanics determine why a vehicle is failing its emissions tests.

Safety Features: Enhanced computers in vehicles allow for more complex safety features, such as the vehicle knowing when to deploy one or both airbags in the event of an accident.