Fiber optics in vehicular applications

Microcomputers and advanced sensors are rapidly penetrating automotive and other vehicle design. Automotive consumption of microcomputers reached almost 2 million units in 1980 and will climb to over 13 million in 1986, with continued strong growth thereafter. A fiber optic link is the preferred signal interconnection from the microcomputer to the sensor or actuator, primarily because it eliminates conducted or radiated electrical interference. Size and weight savings are also significant. Fiber optic sensors are also well suited to the hostile environments of vehicular applications. Fiber optic components are not now cost competitive with conventional conductors and sensors, but their cost will decline rapidly throughout this decade.