Infotainment & Audio
Cars Are Going Digital
The classic car radio of yesteryear has long since become obsolete. Today, the head unit is the control centre for the infotainment system, which contains modules for various convenience and safety functions. The integrated CPU and graphics modules are more reminiscent of a small computer that enables the centralised control of radio, navigation, multimedia and Internet connections.
High-resolution screens, also with touchscreen functions, show the driver all the necessary information. Connectivity enables connection to the vehicle via smartphone. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it possible to seamlessly connect the smartphone to the infotainment system. Apps such as music players, news apps and navigation services can be controlled directly via the vehicle's display. Digital sound systems with up to 48 channels ensure first-class sound. Well-known manufacturers offer specially customised sound systems for various vehicle models.
Challenges in the Field of Infotainment & Audio
The future of infotainment and audio technology in cars looks very promising. With the further development of artificial intelligence and connectivity, systems are expected to become even more intuitive and personalised. The increasing expectations placed on infotainment systems are also presenting developers with ever more complex challenges. In addition to sophisticated software solutions, more and more hardware requirements need to be miniaturised. The more functions, and therefore the more modules are integrated, the more packing density is required. Wired components only find a place where an SMD solution is not possible. Components of size 1608 and smaller are therefore no longer a rarity. In order to meet the quality requirements of car manufacturers, it is already standard today to fulfil certain quality specifications such as IATF-16949 and AEC-Q.