Why Use Electronic Ignition?

<h1>Why Use Electronic Ignition?</h1>Author: <a title="Mike Rees" href="http://www.articlesbase.com/authors/mike-rees/120020.htm">Mike Rees</a> Before electronic ignition systems were developed, ignition control of an engine was undertaken using mechanical distributors. In distributor-based systems, the distributor directs the output from a single high-tension (HT) ignition coil to the relevant spark plug. Control over the timing of ignition is done through a cam operated contact breaker, centrifugal weights, springs and cams, with ‘load mapping' done through using a vacuum advance unit. These distributor-based systems are prone to mechanical wear, insulation break down and contact failure. To keep the ignition timing correct these systems require a periodic ‘tune up' to keep them working correctly. Modern electronic ignition systems do not require a distributor. A single small HT coil is used for each spark plug and the igniter operates each coil separately in the correct sequence. Engine position information is provided by engine position sensors and a timing disks that are accurately attached to one or two of the main engine shafts, such as the camshaft. The firing sequence and variable spark advance is computed accurately from the pattern of teeth or pegs on the timing disk. If load mapping is required, this can be achieved by adding a manifold pressure sensor or a throttle angle potentiometer to the system. A variety of extra features are available on such systems, which can be accessed and adjusted by a PC. The main advantages of electronic ignition systems: Electronic Ignition systems provide extremely accurate spark timings, leading to improved combustion and emissions control. As there is no mechanical contact there is no wear therefore the accuracy is maintained. These reasons are why electronic ignition is used as standard throughout the industry.About the Author: Mike Rees works for Gill Instruments, who manufacture and supply a range of <a href="http://www.gill.co.uk/products/digital_ignition/ignition.htm">engine controls</a>, including the AF120 <a href="http://www.gill.co.uk/products/digital_ignition/af120.htm">Air Fuel Ratio Controller</a>Article Source: <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/">ArticlesBase.com</a> - <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/why-use-electronic-ignition-772580.html" title="Why Use Electronic Ignition?">Why Use Electronic Ignition?</a>

Before electronic ignition systems were developed, ignition control of an engine was undertaken using mechanical distributors. In distributor-based systems, the distributor directs the output from a single high-tension (HT) ignition coil to the relevant spark plug. Control over the timing of ignition is done through a cam operated contact breaker, centrifugal weights, springs and cams, with ‘load mapping' done through using a vacuum advance unit.

These distributor-based systems are prone to mechanical wear, insulation break down and contact failure. To keep the ignition timing correct these systems require a periodic ‘tune up' to keep them working correctly.

Modern electronic ignition systems do not require a distributor. A single small HT coil is used for each spark plug and the igniter operates each coil separately in the correct sequence.

Engine position information is provided by engine position sensors and a timing disks that are accurately attached to one or two of the main engine shafts, such as the camshaft. The firing sequence and variable spark advance is computed accurately from the pattern of teeth or pegs on the timing disk. If load mapping is required, this can be achieved by adding a manifold pressure sensor or a throttle angle potentiometer to the system. A variety of extra features are available on such systems, which can be accessed and adjusted by a PC.

The main advantages of electronic ignition systems:
Electronic Ignition systems provide extremely accurate spark timings, leading to improved combustion and emissions control. As there is no mechanical contact there is no wear therefore the accuracy is maintained. These reasons are why electronic ignition is used as standard throughout the industry.

Mike Rees works for Gill Instruments, who manufacture and supply a range of engine controls, including the AF120 Air Fuel Ratio Controller

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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/why-use-electronic-ignition-772580.html

Article Tags: Ignition Coils, Engine Controls, Air Fuel Ratio Control, Ignition Systems, Igniters

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Why Use Electronic Ignition?

By: Mike Rees | 16/02/2009 | Technology
Before electronic ignition systems were developed, ignition control of an engine was undertaken using mechanical distributors. This article highlights the drawbacks of distributor-based systems and the associated advantages of modern electronic ignition systems.