Best bits: Applications of microprocessors: Making the shuttle reliable

The U.S. space Shuttle's robot arm, used to manipulate equipment carried in the shuttle's cargo bay, is controlled by one of six computers on board. However engineers at Spar Aerospace Ltd. of Ontario, Canada, designed the arm with a microprocessor that monitors the computer and the robot arm's electronics. The device, manufactured by the Rockwell International Corp. of Downey, Calif, contlnually checks for malfunctions and faulty commands.