The introduction of networking into the automotive industry

In this paper the author addresses the necessity for serial communications networks in the automotive industry and how this new technology is being used to support the modern features expected by Jaguar´s customers today and in the coming years. The author discusses the concept of multiplexing. Conventional methods of data transfer are illustrated. The limitations of these methods are explained along with the dilemmas facing the electrical engineer in the automotive industry. The author introduces the modern concept of a vehicle network and the basic principles of how it works. There is also a brief technical overview of the basics of serial data communications. The author then discusses the issues faced by a multiplex engineer. Requirements come from customers, marketing and external forces. The author touches on how these affect the choice of a network and explain that there can invariably be a number of different network protocols on a vehicle. A brief look into the future is given