Electrochromic Mirror (DD8)

DESCRIPTION
The Electrochromic Mirror automatically changes its reflectance to ensure maximum rear vision while minimizing glare in all types of driving conditions.

It uses a thin layer of electrochromic material between two plates of conductive glass and two photocell sensors. One photocell Faces forward to measure the ambient light level. The second photocell faces backward to measure glare from approaching vehicles. At night, as headlight glare from behind increases, the mirror gradually becomes darker to absorb the glare. In the daytime, the mirror is in a clear state and offers high reflectance.

The Electrochromic Mirror also uses a three position switch to turn "ON" and select the sensitivity of the mirror.

CIRCUIT OPERATION
The Electrochromic Mirror requires three electrical inputs for operation, a power input, a reset input and a ground. The mirror also uses the headlight and ambient photocell sensors, which are part of the mirror, as inputs to determine light conditions.

When the ignition is in run and the mirror switch is set at MIN, battery voltage is applied to the mirror's solid state circuits at terminal 1. This voltage is used as a power supply and also sets the mirror's sensitivity to a low level. The MIN position is used primarily for city driving and sets the mirror to a low sensitivity level. If the mirror switch is placed in the MAX position, the mirror is set at a high sensitivity level. This causes the mirror to darken more at a lower glare level.

Terminal 3, the reset input, is used to reset the mirror to a daytime clear state when voltage is applied to it. When the car is placed in reverse, battery voltage from Fuse A3 is applied to the mirror's reset input terminal 3 through the Transaxle Position Switch. This causes the mirror to gradually change to a clear state (high reflectivity). The driver's rear view is now clear.

The Electrochromic Mirror cannot be serviced and must be replaced as an assembly.