

| Subject: | Re: How many volts can ECU handle? |
| From: | neil n |
| Date: | Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:49:55 -0800 |
On Fri, Nov 20, 2009 at 2:02 PM, David Beierl <dbeierl@attglobal.net> wrote: > At 04:33 PM 11/20/2009, neil n wrote: .... > Internally I imagine it runs on 12.0 +/- 0.5 and 5.0 +/- 0.25 volts, > although it's possible that the 12v part could be running at the van system > voltage. �It can undoubtedly tolerate supply voltages of +16 volts, maybe > more, at least briefly. �One thing it *won't* be happy about is unhooking FI > or ignition driver outputs while it's running (damage can be invisible and > cumulative, btw), and undoubtedly some or all of its pins are > static-sensitive when not connected into the van wiring. Thanks David. Interesting point re: cumulative and invisible damage. So there's obviously something in the ECU circuitry that regulates and/or protects the voltage sensitive components from damage (within reason). Something similar to the Vanagon voltage stabilzer on the instrument cluster foil. I have an air cooled Vanagon ECU. Maybe I'll pop off the cover and have a look-see. Much simpler I'm sure, so maybe there's an obvious component visible. Neil. -- Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco" http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/ http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines
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