The Importance and Evolution of the Standardized Serial Data Link to the Truck OEM

The heavy duty truck industry is experiencing an electronic evolution in an effort to respond to demands for greater fuel efficiency, reliability, and stricter emission regulations. With the advent of electronic products for use in engine, transmission, and brake controls, it has become apparent that some sort of interface standard is necessary to allow communication between the various modules. Fortunately such a standard already exists, in part; SAE J1708 - Recommended Practice for Serial Data Communication Between Microcomputer Systems in Heavy Duty Vehicle Applications. This paper will attempt to explain this new standard and how it may affect powertrain electronics.