The Mitsubishi Smartphone Link Display Audio ( SDA )
TECH TALK TECH TALK TECH TALK By Cha Ratnatunga
The Mitsubishi Smartphone Link Display Audio ( SDA )
In the past 5 years car manufactures have been focusing their dashboard design to include a screen based , safe and easy-to-use interface for the driver . This user interface has evolved to support the two leading de facto car apps – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . The combination is supported by more and more vehicle manufactures .
Mitsubishi have bundled Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into a single unit known as Smart phone Link Display Audio ( SDA ) Technology .
The concept is to use the smartphone as the main provider of up-to-date information to the SDA , which in turn will present only approved functionality to the driver . The apps in a smartphone are not made to be used while driving . The text size and font are small , more screen viewing is required , text input is high and the response times are not fast enough . All these functional elements can potentially contribute towards dangerous and illegal driving . The SDA translates and optimises smartphone apps for vehicle use by using more voice activated functionality and simplified visual representation . The driver can focus on looking ahead at the road . The text size is much larger and only information required for functionality will be displayed ( e . g . text messages are not displayed ). The photo below shows a sample home screen of Apple Carplay in the Mitsubishi SDA .
While the driver is using the SDA , it must be remembered that safety is the number one priority and the driver will not be indemnified for any consequences resulting from an accident . Every time the car is started , the SDA screen displays the following message to which the driver has to agree prior to using the interface .
“ Observe and obey all road signs , traffic rules and drive safely . Read owner ’ s manual before using . You are responsible for safety at all times .”
How Does It Work ?
The phone connects via a cable to the USB port in the vehicle . The connection to the SDA link is made straight away . The SDA screen will display all the approved apps on the phone . The table below lists the current apps available with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto .
22 Vol 34 No . 3 - April 2017