For a modern driver, an on-board computer is not just a newfangled device, but a real assistant in driving and maintaining a car. What are the main functions and capabilities of the on-board computer?
For a modern driver, an on-board computer is not just a newfangled device, but a real assistant in driving and maintaining a car. What are the main functions and capabilities of the on-board computer?
An on-board computer (BC) is a digital device that performs electronic computing operations on data received from various sensors.
On-board computer functions
A modern car is “stuffed” with various electronics, systems and sensors. It is difficult for the driver to keep track of everything on his own. This is precisely the main role of the on-board computer (OB) - to control the operation of the main systems in the car and promptly provide the necessary information to the driver. Typically, the results are displayed on the monitor.
A standard on-board computer is usually installed on the dashboard or on the front console. In budget versions, this is a small, monochrome screen; in more expensive versions, a color LCD display is used.
Vehicle on-board computer
The on-board computer can be controlled either through its own unit, or it can be integrated with the infotainment system.
The bookmaker's capabilities largely depend on the model. The computer can present the following data:
- current fuel consumption, as well as average consumption and range in kilometers;
- travel time, total and current mileage;
- control of movement modes and settings, if such a function is provided by the manufacturer;
- specified travel route (navigator);
- malfunctions of various vehicle systems.
In the event of any malfunction, a simple standard controller usually displays a “check engine” signal and issues an error code. The error code can be found in the instruction manual or contact a service center for diagnostics. In any case, you should not ignore such messages from the bookmaker.
On-board computer functions
In more expensive versions, the bookmaker's capabilities are much wider. It can remember the driver's individual parameters. For example, seat position, driving style. The BC also issues recommendations on the optimal driving style on a certain section of the route to save fuel.
Service (diagnostic) computer
A service computer, or as it is usually called, a diagnostic computer , is a user part of the overall system aimed at detecting faults in vehicle systems and components. In addition, it is necessary for quickly diagnosing all faults that arise on the road and simplifying the diagnostic procedure at a service station. As an independent device, a diagnostic computer is very rare. A diagnostic computer is extremely rare in the form of a separate (independent) device. Among the main diagnostic functions assigned to the service computer:
- Partial or complete engine diagnostics with storing errors in memory.
- Constant monitoring of the condition of the brake pads.
- Monitoring the oil level in the main components of the car: transmission, engine, transfer case, final drive housing.
- Monitoring the condition of electrical systems (presence of problems in lighting fixtures, short circuits, current leaks).
During vehicle servicing, errors stored in the on-board computer's memory are read by the server part of the diagnostic system. Based on them, a report is generated on the general condition of all systems and the need (or lack thereof) for repair work.
Types of bookmakers
BCs are divided by purpose and functionality. The direction of the information provided is taken into account. Thus, they can be divided into the following types:
- universal;
- route;
- service;
- managers.
Universal
The difference between a universal bookmaker is its versatility. Such computers are purchased separately and are connected to the vehicle's diagnostic connector. Control occurs via a touch screen or remote control. Functionality may include the following:
- navigation via satellite;
- entertainment system (TV, DVD, all multimedia);
- providing information about trip parameters (fuel consumption, etc.);
- decoding error codes from the on-board computer system;
- monitoring the operation of parking sensors and other sensors, rear view camera.
Route
The trip computer can be installed either separately or as a standard system. Its main task is to show trip data:
- speed;
- fuel consumption;
- route(navigator);
- travel time and more.
Service
The service BC is also called “diagnostic”. This type of car computer is standard and allows you to diagnose and identify various problems. Its functions include:
- diagnosing engine operation;
- condition of the oil in the engine and other systems (pressure, temperature);
- condition of the brake system (wear of brake pads, brake fluid);
- checking the electrical circuit of the car (battery charge, short circuit).
Error codes are stored in the computer's memory. To read them, service centers perform diagnostics using a special device.
Manager
The control computer is installed on cars with injection and diesel engines. This is the main unit in the vehicle's system control. It has complex functionality and can control the following systems:
- ignition;
- nozzles;
- setting up an automatic transmission;
- driving modes (sport, eco, standard and others);
- climate control;
- voltage in the electrical circuit.
Service BC
Purpose
On-board computers are divided into universal ones - those that serve for entertainment, navigation, and Internet access. Others are called highly specialized - for example, diagnostic or route on-board computers. However, they are all called onboard.
In addition, the on-board computer can monitor engine operating parameters: coolant temperature, oil pressure, air flow, and so on.
The on-board computer's text recognition system can read received SMS messages aloud. If the message contains poetry, the system will handle them too
In addition to all of the above, the on-board computer can notify the driver about malfunctions and errors in the operation of various systems: engine overheating or when the voltage in the electrical network is exceeded. And also indicate that the speed limit is exceeded and remind you about not fastening your seat belts. Also, some on-board computers have a parking function.
Modern on-board computers are integrated with mobile phones - so the car owner can, for example, set the temperature in the cabin or track the location of the car directly from a cellular device.
How does one calculate fuel consumption?
Many drivers are interested in the work of the BC in the car and the accuracy of the data provided to it. With working systems, the device shows fairly accurate data.
Fuel consumption is calculated based on the interval between opening and closing the injectors. These are microseconds. When you press the gas, the interval increases and more fuel is supplied. The computer takes into account the throughput of the injectors, which is precisely known. The condition of the fuel pump and filter is also important. Based on these data, the BC shows the average and current consumption at a given speed. Knowing the volume of fuel in the gas tank and its consumption, the computer can easily determine the remaining trip distance. Many other parameters (oil, pressure) are calculated using a similar principle. The data may not match if one of the systems is faulty. For example, the injectors are clogged or the settings are wrong. Even the use of non-standard rubber can significantly affect the result.
How to reset a car's on-board computer
Sometimes it is necessary to erase data about past errors and update the work of the bookmaker. “Brain reset” returns the computer to normal operation. This is not difficult to do. You need to remove the negative terminal from the battery and wait 3-5 minutes. Then reconnect the battery. Next, the “zeroed” BC must collect working information about the condition of the car. It is also recommended to travel in different driving styles. This way the bookmaker will work more correctly.
An on-board computer is a useful and necessary thing in a modern car. It helps the driver choose the optimal driving style and warns about breakdowns and errors. This will not only save time and money on possible repairs, but will also increase the safety of the driver and passengers.
CONSUMER ANALYSIS
INSTALLATION: installation of this GAMMA GF-412 climate control unit does not cause any problems, if, of course, you follow the clear instructions that come with the kit.
Although there are some subtleties here: the GAMMA GF-412 receives information about route parameters not from the K-line, but from the trip computer block, which was standardly installed on cars in the “Lux” configuration.
ERGONOMICS: the GAMMA GF-412 unit is controlled using an encoder and four keys, which are switched with pleasant, controlled efforts. The choice of function in the carousel menu is carried out using the “up”, “down” buttons or by rotating the encoder, thanks to which it is very easy and convenient to manage processes. To confirm your choice, you must press the “EDIT” button or the end of the encoder. To exit the submenu, use the “EXIT” button.
By default, the unit is in the “ACS and Parameters” mode, where you can use the encoder to set the fan rotation speed, and by clicking on it, you can set the required temperature. In the “Settings” menu, you must select the type of heater, and then the fan speed will have 8 fixed positions for the 11th and 4 for the 10th heater. This function also affects the connection polarity of the heating damper micro-reducer.
UNIT OPERATION: There were no complaints about the operation of the GAMMA GF-412 unit, and there shouldn’t have been any: after all, the temperature support mode is carried out by an air damper, and the fan speed is adjusted manually.
Let us repeat once again that the control of the unit is very convenient and logical, and the control principle is vaguely reminiscent of the famous i-Drive from BMW.
DISPLAY: the on-board computer with climate control GAMMA GF-412 has a fairly large graphic indicator that displays a large number of parameters that have very clear symbols. The display is easy to read in any weather and has a soft blue backlight (blocks with blue and orange backlight are also available on the market), which dims slightly when the side lights are turned on. In the “Settings” menu, you can set the brightness and contrast you need, for day and night modes separately, for which you need to turn on/off the side lights during setup, and also use the inverse display mode, which resists blinding the driver in the dark.
So the GAMMA GF-412 display is good, the only thing that is alarming is the long response time of the matrix at temperatures below zero degrees, which is, in principle, characteristic of most indicators of this type.
FEATURES: the peculiarity of the block is that it is a tandem of an automatic control system and a good on-board vehicle. Since the self-propelled control system was described above, it is worth mentioning the interesting functions of the on-board computer. Namely, the “Sport” mode, in which it is possible to measure the following dynamic characteristics of the car: acceleration time to 100 km/h, time and maximum speed shown when passing the measuring section, engine speed in graphical and digital form, current speed. The “Maintenance” mode allows you to set the mileage until the next replacement: oil, timing belt, spark plugs, air and fuel filters. The “Multiscreen 1,2” mode allows you to monitor 6 parameters of your choice on the display. In the “ECU Errors” submenu, the ability to textually decipher the current ECU error is implemented. For those who spend most of their lives in the car, an alarm clock is presented in the “Organizer” mode. Another useful feature nowadays is that if you turn off the ignition but forget to turn off the lights, the unit will notify you with an audible alarm.
APPEARANCE AND PRODUCT QUALITY: a large graphic display and encoder organically “fit” into this climate control unit. The texture of the plastic body is similar to that used in the dashboard, and thanks to this it is in harmony with it. The quality of the block is at the proper level.
SUMMARY
ADVANTAGES: functionality, ease of operation, large graphic display, fairly modern design, quality workmanship.
DISADVANTAGES: short warranty period, relatively high price.
GENERAL RATING: the saying “You have to pay for all good things” applies specifically to the GAMMA GF-412 climate control system with an on-board computer.
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