Microcontrollers in Off-Highway Applications-A Status Report

Microcontrollers are now being used in a variety of off-highway machinery. Their application was initiated by a need for traditional electrohydraulic control functions, but their utility and cost effectiveness has created demand for additional use in the provision of work function information and diagnostics to the operator. The flexibility of computers allows these systems to be tailored to virtually any machine. With properly designed electronics, microcontrollers have the potential to enhance the image of electronics on mobile equipment.