ECU stands for Electronic Control Unit, which is a device that controls multiple systems of an internal combustion engine in a single unit. It is an embedded system in automotive electronics that controls one or more of the electrical systems or subsystems in a car or other motor vehicle. The main functions of an ECU include controlling the fuel injection system, ignition system, idle speed control, and variable valve timing and/or variable valve lift systems. The sensors used by the ECU include the accelerator pedal position sensor, camshaft position sensor, coolant temperature sensor, crankshaft position sensor, knock sensors, inlet manifold pressure sensor, intake air temperature, intake air mass flow rate sensor, and oxygen (lambda) sensor.
ECUs are found in modern vehicles and can control functions that range from the essential, such as engine and power steering control, to comfort, such as power windows, seats, and HVAC, to security and access, such as door locks and keyless entry. They also control passive safety features, such as airbags, and even basic active safety features, such as automatic emergency braking. Each ECU typically contains a dedicated chip that runs its own software or firmware and requires power and data connections to operate.
In summary, an ECU is a crucial component of a vehicles electronic system that controls various functions of the vehicle, including the engine, power steering, and safety features.
