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Philips Semiconductors, an affiliate of Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE:PHG), and Special Devices Inc. (SDI) have made their first successful firing of an electronic `smart' initiator for airbags.

Commonly referred to as squibs, electronic initiators will be required in future multiplexed automotive safety-critical networks, especially dedicated passenger restraint networks. Creating a truly `smart' initiator for in-vehicle safety networks was achieved by combining SDI's initiator experience with Philips Semiconductors' recognized technical leadership in innovative silicon for In-Vehicle Networking (IVN).

Embedding the complex control electronics required into the firing mechanism itself allows the simple integration of airbag nodes at any point in the network with minimal design effort. It also makes full system diagnostics possible at any time - including immediately before deployment. Automotive manufacturers can therefore incorporate greater control over the direction and rate of inflation into dynamic airbag networks, taking into account the size, weight and position of the driver and passengers. This ensures optimum protection while significantly reducing the potential of improper deployment.

"This development clearly points to the future of safety-critical networks," said Len Arguello, Philips Semiconductors' North America IVN marketing manager. "The successful firing of an electronic initiator highlights the performance of Philips Semiconductors' first PLANET (Philips Lite Automotive NETwork) IC, a specially designed safety-critical network concept ideal for dedicated passenger restraint systems that has already gained significant support from various organizations. In particular, we have been working very closely with USCAR (a consortium of North America's big three automotive manufacturers) developing an international standard for safety-critical networks, to ensure the safest solution for users while meeting the myriad of requirements for the automotive industry."

At the heart of this device is Philips Semiconductors' AU6101 squib driver IC, developed specifically to meet the Classic PLANET protocol. The AU6101 Squib Driver IC is available in Engineering Sample quantities.