ISO structure and related activities [automobile electronics diagnostics]

The permanent desire for greater safety, driving comfort, and environmental compatibility is leading to a rapid increase in electronic control units and sensors in vehicles. Added functions and the corresponding equipment create even not only a bewildering tangle of cables, but also a considerable confusion of functional connections. It becomes more and more difficult to diagnose faults in such systems, and solve them within a reasonable period. In such a frustrating situation the International Standards Organisation (ISO) is ready and prepared to help in preparing standards to facilitate diagnostic applications world-wide. The author gives an idea and impression of the role of ISO and their national member bodies in developing vehicle electronics diagnostic standards for everyone's use: the manufacturer, the consumer, the legislator, the surveillance agencies, the workshop etc.