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Johnson Controls Showcases its Plug 'n Play Infotainment Offerings

11 October 2000

Johnson Controls Showcases its Plug 'n Play Infotainment Offerings at Convergence 2000

Company's 'harmony' approach provides for a
seamless integration of infotainment features

    PLYMOUTH, Mich., Oct. 11 In the rapidly changing consumer
electronics arena, today's technology can become as obsolete as an 8-track
player almost overnight.  Taking a plug 'n play approach, Johnson Controls
can help automakers and consumers ensure that they will always
have the latest in-vehicle infotainment features.
    With its "master planned flex build" strategy, Johnson Controls' goal is
to enable relatively simple electronics plug-in upgrades (software or
hardware) at four points in the vehicle life cycle, including: during the
development process; at the point of sale; at mid-cycle to refresh the
vehicle; and in the aftermarket.
    This type of architecture is part of the company's infotainment offerings
on display at the Convergence 2000 International Congress on Transportation
Electronics Oct. 16 through Oct. 18 at Detroit's Cobo Center. Johnson Controls
Harmony Infotainment -- a harmonious blend and seamless integration of
infotainment features -- will show how consumers can access advanced
information and entertainment services in a safe and simple way.
    The first infotainment system on display -- Harmony Generation I --
includes the following features: a driver centric graphical user interface
designed for center stack applications, including audio and multimedia
networking capability; a flexible multi-controller; large color display
mounted far forward and high in the instrument panel for ease of viewing; hot
keys for frequently used functions; telematics module for concierge, emergency
911 and integrated cellular phone; Internet capability; navigation and trip
computer; rear vision; and upgradable plug-in modules.
    The second, more progressive infotainment system on display -- Harmony
Generation III -- features plug and play expandability -- an easily upgradable
architecture by means of an industry standard plug-in module system.
    Upgrade modules could include a digital satellite radio tuner and a
product pack, including HomeLink(R) Universal Transceiver, PSI(TM) (Pressure
Safety Information) system and keyless entry; Johnson Controls' PathPoint(R)
Digital Compass; and Johnson Controls' BlueConnect(TM) System for wireless
communications.
    In addition to this modular approach, which allows for easy OEM mid-cycle
vehicle enhancements, "on-the-lot" dealer customization and end-user upgrades
-- Harmony Infotainment systems include the following characteristics:

    *  An intuitive multi-controller user interface -- this central control
knob interacts with all advanced features and provides a single touchpoint --
which is easy to find and does not require the driver to look away from the
road.  In addition, video graphics, located just below the windshield, mimic
the control's movement and provides prompt feedback;
    *  Superior tactile attributes -- designed to feel as good as it looks,
the smooth dampened control knobs provide positional feedback with just the
right amount of detent and push buttons glide firmly with a silky snap; and
    *  Familiar controls -- traditional systems, such as the climate control
and radio are controlled in familiar ways, allowing even the most seasoned
driver to feel comfortable using the system immediately.  The most commonly
used knobs -- temperature, fan speed, air direction and radio volume, are all
within easy reach and don't require the driver to hunt through endless
computer menus to use.

    "These interior ideas reflect our company's emphasis on innovation and our
focus on truly connecting vehicles to the lifestyles of drivers and
passengers," said Jim Geschke, vice president and general manager, Electronics
Integration. "With our master planned flex build architecture, consumers can
adapt their interior to meet their changing needs and lifestyles."
    The automotive business of Johnson Controls -- which employs more than
65,000 people at 275 facilities worldwide -- achieved US$12.1 billion in sales
for the 1999 fiscal year.  In model-year 2000, it will supply interior
products for more than 23 million vehicles.