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Control Units Functions and Duties in Vehicles

Writer's picture: Merkar ElektronikMerkar Elektronik

In automotive electronics, the electronic control unit, or ECU, is an embedded system that controls one or more electrical systems or subsystems in the vehicle. Electronic control unit ECU is a general term for any of a large number of computer modules in the vehicle that receive input from sensors and control different electrical functions.


The system we call ECU is the brain of the vehicle. As cars become more complex and equipped with more sensors and functions, dozens of different electronic control units can be at work in a single vehicle.


ECU usually consists of an 8-bit microprocessor, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory ROM, and an I/O interface. ECUs can be updated by the manufacturer or a third party.


They are usually protected to prevent unwanted, unapproved changes. Types of electronic control modules for jeep Grand Cherokee WJ as an example.


Body Control Module The BCM plugs into the connector block under the driver's side of the instrument cluster. BCM uses integrated circuit and information carried in the programmable communication interface. The PCI bus network monitors many sensors and switch inputs throughout the vehicle, along with wired input. The BCM supports many body electrical features such as interior lighting, exterior lighting, intermittent wipers, remote radio, accessory delay and heated seats.


Passenger door module The PDM is located behind the right door sill panel, which is integrated into the door key assembly. The door module controls various electronic features such as power door locks, power windows, power mirrors, roof lighting and lock motor.


Airbag control module The ACM is located behind the derailleur assembly, below the central control housing. The microprocessor in the airbag control module contains the additional restraint system, logic circuits and controls all of the components of an additional restraint system. In other words, the control of the Airbag systems in the vehicles is located in this ECU.




Sunroof Module (SM) The sunroof module is located in the roof console as part of the sunroof assembly. The sunroof module controls the operation of the sunroof open-close and ventilation functions.


Rain Sensing Module(RSM) The rain sensing module is located inside the windshield, between the rearview mirror mount button and the windshield hood, and is hidden behind a molded plastic sheeting cover that fits over the module housing. The microprocessor-based rain sensor module detects moisture in the white pattern on the outside of the windshield and initiates the detection-wipe process to the body control module BCM.


Instrument Panel Module(IC) The instrument cluster is located on the left front panel. The instrument cluster provides gauge and gauge control. The instrument cluster uses the PCI bus to obtain most, if not all, of the gauges and information needed to control the gauges.


Driver's Door Module (DDM) The driver's door module is located behind the left door trim panel integrated into the door switch assembly. The driver's door module controls various electronic features such as power door locks, power windows, power mirrors, roof lighting and elevator door motor.


Heated Seat Module (HSM) The location of the heated seat module is below the driver's seat, mounted in a step between the power seat rail and the seat cushion frame. The heated seat module HSM performs the functions of the heated seat.


Memory Heated Seat Module (MSM) The memory heated seat module location is under the driver's seat, mounted in a step between the power seat rail and the seat cushion frame. The memory heated seat module performs the memory seat functions and the heated seat functions.


Adjustable Panel Module (APM) The adjustable panel module location is below or above the brake pedal. The adjustable panels module APM controls the operation of the adjustable pedals.


Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) The location of the Sentry key immobilizer module is under the steering column release cover, which is attached to the underside of the steering column housing. The immobilizer module contains a radio frequency RF transceiver and a microprocessor. The immobilizer module transmits RF signals to and receives RF signals from the key transponder via the tuned antenna ring integrated in the SKIM housing.


Transmission Control Module (TCM) The transmission control module TCM is mounted on the right side of the engine compartment, near the firewall, on the inner fender or mounted on the left side of the instrument cluster. The transmission control module controls all electronic operations of the transmission. The TCM receives vehicle operating information from both direct and indirect inputs and selects the transmission's operating mode.


Controller Anti-Lock Brakes (CAB) Controller anti-lock brakes The CAB is attached to the hydraulic control unit HCU, under the hood in front of the master cylinder. The controller also controls anti-lock brakes CAB, ABS and electronic brake distribution EBD.


Powertrain Control Module (PCM) The powertrain control module PCM is located in the hood panel at the rear right of the engine compartment. The PCM is a pre-programmed triple microprocessor digital computer. It regulates ignition timing, air fuel ratio, emission control devices, charging system, certain transmission characteristics, speed control, A/C compressor clutch clutch and idle speed.

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