Abstract: A multimedia/personal computer-based system for operating information, communication, and entertainment devices in a mobile vehicle uses a power management strategy which reduces power consumption and boot-up time in a manner which facilitates use of a complex instruction set computing (CISC) processor system. A loosely coupled power management strategy utilizes a low power microprocessor off board of the main motherboard for switching a plurality of regulated voltages to the main motherboard and other devices. The use of a separate board for input/output processing and power management provides for more robust power management and facilitates adaptation of the system for inclusion in different vehicles using different input/output devices and networks.

Abstract: A multimedia/personal computer-based system for operating information, communication, and entertainment devices in a mobile vehicle uses a power management strategy which reduces power consumption and boot-up time in a manner which facilitates use of a complex instruction set computing (CISC) processor system. A power management fault strategy detects fault conditions and restores proper operation without user intervention. A low power microprocessor off-board of the main motherboard switches a plurality of regulated voltages to the main motherboard and other devices. The main application microprocessor on the main motherboard sends periodic status messages to the low power microprocessor.

Abstract: When an RDS or RBDS radio is used to listen to prerecorded media, the tuner monitors an RDS station in the background to determine when a traffic announcement is in progress. A search for selecting an appropriate station for background monitoring is provided which selects a station which is most likely to be in accordance with the individual preferences of the driver. The search method can also be used to find traffic capable stations, weather stations, emergency alert information, and news broadcasts.

Abstract: A multi-function RDS button and a menu driven interface for accessing RDS features facilitates easy access to RDS functions with minimal demands upon the attention of the user. Large numbers of push buttons with cryptic labels and unintuitive push-button sequences of prior RDS radio receivers are avoided. Due to a long time-out period provided before automatically exiting the menu, the user can alternate attention between the radio and the road without losing their place in the menu or initiating an unwanted action.

Abstract: The software and hardware resources of an electronic system are organized in an architecture which creates a single data table in program memory for the assignment of user controls to system functions. User controls can be reassigned through appropriate modifications to this table. Thus, minor changes to the user controls can be implemented without modifying the software or hardware of the system, thereby avoiding significant development cost. Furthermore, standard products can be developed which can be customized to the needs of particular applications of the products or variations for local markets.

Abstract: The software and hardware resources of an electronic system are organized in an architecture which creates a single data table in program memory for the assignment of user controls to system functions. User controls can be reassigned through appropriate modifications to this table. Thus, minor changes to the user controls can be implemented without modifying the software or hardware of the system, thereby avoiding significant development cost. Furthermore, standard products can be developed which can be customized to the needs of particular applications of the products or variations for local markets.