ECU microprocessors make it possible to realize increasingly complex control functions and algorithms. This increasing complexity in turn makes high demands on the adaptation and optimization of microprocessor systems for the relevant engine and vehicle types. This automotive-specific procedure, referred to as calibration, is an important factor in terms of deadlines, quality, and cost in the production of a vehicle.

The goal of calibration is the optimization of control functions. The algorithms of the control functions are fixed in the ECU program. Only the parameter values (maps, characteristic curves, and characteristic values) can be changed. To interpret and optimize these parameters, innumerable electric and physical signals are measured at the test bench and in test drives, and then evaluated by developers and by calibration and test engineers.

Calibration systems can make various tasks in the daily work of the user easier. The optimization of the parameters involves lots of test iterations; therefore, high-quality results can only be achieved using powerful calibration systems that are an integral part of the development process.

ETAS makes the entire software and hardware range available from program development to the calibration of your ECUs. You can use the ETAS tools to address all ECUs that satisfy the ASAM^* standard. By using these standardized interfaces, our tools are not limited to the ECUs of any particular manufacturer.
The implementation of standard systems for function development and calibration of ECUs essentially provides our customers with the following advantages:

• High security of investment, due to reusability.
• Introduction of standard processes and procedures leads to increased efficiency in development.
• Financial savings because training is possible on a single system.
• Standard working environments which allow employees to be more flexible.
• Optimized utilization of products (hardware/software).

^*ASAM: Association for Standardization of Automation and Measuring Systems

Diagnostic Software Calibration

During the ECU calibration phase, development engineers need integrated tools that provide excellent support for all of their measurement, calibration and diagnostic needs. Ideally this functionality should be supplied via one hardware interface. This approach reduces development tool costs and saves valuable development time. ODX-LINK, a diagnostic add-on for the well established measurement and calibration tool INCA, provides this functionality to calibration engineers who use ETAS tools.