Best bits: Applications of microprocessors: Switching to firmware

A father-and-son team of automotive engineers, Ervin and Michael Leshner, who have been voted 1979 Inventors of the Year by the American Society of Inventors, are working to produce prototypes of an engine-control device that would increase auto fuel efficiency at low installed cost. One question the Leshners face is at what point to convert their present 60 component control board of resistors and analog and digital ICs to a microprocessor-driven version containing about a quarter of the components and costing 40 percent less. Convert they must to meet their goal of a $150 retail price for an installed unit, but they are in no hurry to do so until they have produced between 1000 and 10 000 units.