Tire pressure monitoring, which is capturing the interest of consumers and garnering national media attention, is about to become easier with the introduction of the PSI Mirror -- a tire-pressure monitoring system -- from Johnson Controls. The rear-view mirror -- available in January 2001 as a dealer-installed accessory -- includes an integrated display that provides timely information about air pressure in all vehicle tires. It also provides warning alerts about low tire pressures that can be seen on the display, and heard via an audible sound. Johnson Controls unveiled the market-ready PSI Mirror this week at the 2000 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. Beginning in January, Johnson Controls will market the PSI mirror through authorized dealers across North America as an optional accessory. It can be installed in less than 30 minutes. Price for the system is yet to be announced. "As a leading supplier of automotive interior systems and electronics, we are committed to offering vehicle technologies that enhance comfort, convenience and peace of mind," said Jeff Steiner, general manager of the Specialty Products Group at Johnson Controls. "The PSI Mirror -- with its superior technology, reliability and ease-of-use -- reflects this commitment." The PSI Mirror uses radio frequency (RF) technology to deliver timely and accurate pressure information within plus or minus one pound per square inch (psi). Small transmitters integrated into special tire valves send data directly to a receiver integrated within a windshield-mounted rear-view mirror. When the system is activated, actual tire pressures are shown on a back-lit display. Warning alerts are given when tire pressures fall below 25 psi, and when tire pressures are extremely low -- less than 15 psi. Johnson Controls' PSI technology can be used with standard radial tires and extended mobility tires, which often are called "run flats." Included in the PSI Mirror kit are a prismatic rear-view mirror with integrated PSI electronics and a display, valve-stem pressure sensors, batteries, installation instructions and a user's guide. PSI systems from Johnson Controls will be included as original-equipment features on a number of model-year 2002 vehicles. The technology's receiver circuitry and display can be integrated into rear-view mirrors, instrument panels and overhead consoles. PSI products offer many advantages over competitive technologies. They provide much more accurate and reliable information, and look like original-equipment installations, rather than non- integrated "add-ons." "The PSI Mirror product is unlike competitive products being marketed today in that it is integrated into a vehicle interior as if it was original, factory equipment," Steiner said. "Johnson Controls, with strong expertise in integrating electronic products into cars and trucks, designed, engineered and tested the product for both original-equipment and dealer-accessory market applications."