Synchronization

Overview

Once the crank / cam sensors are configured, the synchronization strategy and tooth pattern must be set up to be able to synchronize the ECU with the engine.

When cranking / starting the engine, the ECU will initially be in an unsynchronized state. The ECU will not be able to determine the engine cycle position until synchronization is achieved.

When the ECU reaches the synchronized state, the channel iconStat Sync'd channel will be set to ON.

During cranking, the ECU uses a different control strategy to normal running.

Synchronization Strategy

The most common synchronization strategy is to use a Missing tooth (or eXtra tooth) on the crankshaft wheel, GEMS ECUs refer to this as the Sync MX strategy.

There are 4 synchronization strategies available, controlled by 3 options. These options must be set in a mutually exclusive way:

  • Sync MX - Missing / extra tooth/teeth on the crankshaft wheel.
  • Sync Cam Count - Simplest strategy, uses the camshaft sensor to determine the engine cycle position, prefer option iconSync Crank S count if possible.
  • Sync Crank S Count - Similar to option iconSync Cam Count, counts the number of crankshaft teeth between camshaft teeth.
  • Sync Cam - when the above 3 options are OFF. Ignores the table iconTooth Control table and used camshaft signal to subdivide the engine cycle.