Charles Melear
Motorola

When discussing Driver Information Systems, one may wonder to what extent these systems are necessary. Because these systems have reached an economically viable state, that is, they can be manufactured at a reasonable price, car companies can offer Driver Information Systems computers to the mass automotive market. Even if DIS computers are cost effective, are they useful. For trips to unfamiliar locations, the ability for the DIS computer to give spoken instructions to the driver to reach the destination is invaluable. The driver does not have to visually search for street signs or building numbers or, worse yet, try to look at a map while the vehicle is in motion. Aside from getting driving instructions, it is very comforting to know that the DIS computer can show the driver where they are located in the case that the person is just plain lost.