| Body controller modules are small,
self-contained computers which perform a dedicated
function in the automobile. To accomplish its function
the module computer (called a microcontroller) must have
the ability to store information (data) regarding some
aspect of the vehicles condition or history of past
events. In the case of an airbag module, the
microcontroller constantly monitors the vehicle speed,
brake pedal position and the crash sensors(s). If an
accident occurs, the microcontroller is informed via the
crash sensor, deploys the airbag(s) and saves vehicle
crash data (speed, brake pedal position, etc.). This
information is saved in the module itself in one of two
places, a serial eeprom memory chip or eeprom memory
within the microcontroller itself. This same storage
function applies to most body controller modules. They
all store dynamic data (data which can change) inside a
serial eeprom memory chip or the microcontroller. EEPROM
stands for Electrically Erasable
Programmable Read Only
Memory. This type of memory retains the
data even if power is removed from the module. When you
work with these modules you use the EPROM+ system to
connect directly to the memory chip or microcontroller
using a chip clip or probes (see below). With the system
connected, you can then access the data directly from the
memory array inside the part using the EPROM+ software
commands. Once the data has been read, you may perform a
variety of operations depending on what you wish to do. 1. RESTORE THE MODULE TO THE DEFAULT FACTORY SETTING -You can do this two ways. The most direct is to read and save the data from a new module to a file. You can then program that data file into a used module thereby restoring it to the default factory setting. This is called reflashing and is a proven procedure for both immobilizers and airbag modules. By saving the files you can create a library which you can use over and over to restore modules. 2. CHANGE ONLY THE DATA YOU NEED TO RESTORE THE MODULE - You may perform this function by reading the part and then examine the data using the EPROM+ data editor, locate the data area which needs to be changed or erased and then make the changes necessary to restore the module. You may then save the changed data to a disk file or program the data back into the part. The EPROM+ system provides a complete set of functions. The examples below show three different body controller modules, the parts which contain the data and how the EPROM+ system is connected using a chip clip or probes. Two kits are available which provide everything you need to work with serial eeproms only (KIT#1) or both serial eeproms and microcontrollers (KIT#2). |
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