Microsoft lays groundwork for new in-car computing platform - Auto PC

Automotive Industries, Jan, 1998 by Norman Martin

Clarion's Auto PC has AM/FM stereo with integrated digital signal processing equalization, and a built-in 35 watt x 4 channel amplifier. Microsoft's CE operating system is standard, along with a Hitachi SH3 processor and 8MB DRAM/8MB ROM. It also has in-dash USB CD audio and CD ROM drive, which supports an optional six-disc changer. A backlit, 8-color LCD screen is used as an icon-driven interface.

A key element in the Auto PC unit is its use of Universal Serial Bus architecture, a standardized way of connecting different equipment. "This provides limitless opportunities for hardware and software developers to create and market customized products," says Jim Minarik, president of Clarion Sales Corp. in Gardena, Calif.

The navigation portion is a very basic point-to-point package. Other built-ins include an address book, mileage log and hands-free voice memo. The linchpin of the system is voice recognition. The unit claims to recognize more than 200 simple voice commands. According to Microsoft, the speech recognition software is from Lernout & Hauspie, a Belgian company that specializes in developing products that operate in noisy environments such as a vehicle.

On-board memory can be expanded with optional compact flash memory cards. An infrared data port is included, allowing data exchange to and from a notebook computer or handheld PC. A number of hardware accessories will be available, including a cellular phone cradle interface with modem, GPS receiver, and security system tracking capability when connected to GPS.

Utilizing wireless "push" technology, a Auto PC wireless receiver option could also allow for customized information to come to the vehicle, including real-time traffic, news, numeric paging and voice and e-mail alerts. Microsoft is already working with CUE, a paging company that uses FM sideband to send out information, and Etak Inc. for map and traffic data.

Looking ahead, even Microsoft doesn't expect that Auto PC will be in every car in the next 10 years. "We understand this is a long-term investment," Lee says. The question is whether Microsoft is willing to wait out its much slower new industry partner.

MICROSOFT'S AUTO PC 1.0

Platform: Windows CE 2.0 Operating System (Tools, standards, support)

Expandable: ROM and hardware upgrades

Voice: Speech recognition (200 words)

Wireless: E-mail, paging, traffic (Next Two-way communications)

Navigation: Route planning, points of interest (GPS optional)

Audio: CD, AM/FM, digital equalizer

Data Sharing: Laptop/Handheld Computer via infrared

Price: About $1,000 (First aftermarket model -- $1,299)

Source: Microsoft