Chapter 1
Overview of
Electrical/Electronic Systems
Objectives
Give examples of electrical and electronic
devices.
Summarize why electric and electronic
devices have replaced many mechanical
devices in the automobile.
Explain how modern automotive systems
interact.
Recall the basic components of a
computer network and their function.
Objectives
Identify the major parts of electrical/
electronic systems.
Explain the basic operation of major
electrical/electronic systems of an
automobile.
Recall the typical locations of
electric/electronic components.
Advantages of
Electrical/Electronic Devices
Better efficiency
Faster
More accurate
Higher fuel economy and performance
Fewer toxic emissions
System Interaction
All major systems work together
Faults may be difficult to trace
Training is absolutely necessary
Review
What are electronic components
composed of?
Answer: semiconductor material
Review
Which of the following is an advantage of
electronic components vs. mechanical
components?
A. They have more moving parts.
B. They are more accurate.
C. They require no electricity.
D. They need no maintenance.
Answer: B. They are more accurate.
Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
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Computer Systems
Sensors
Computer
Actuators
Wiring harness
11
12
13
14
15
16
Review
The components of an automotive
computer system include the _____,
computer, actuators, and wiring
harness.
Answer: sensors
17
Review
What is the function of the main
computer in an automotive computer
system?
Answer: It analyzes inputs from the sensors
and sends instructions to the actuators.
18
Starting System
Components
Ignition switch
Starter solenoid
Starting motor
19
20
Charging System
Components
Alternator (generator)
Voltage regulator
21
22
Ignition System
Purpose
Ignites air-fuel mixture
Monitors engine speed and other variables
Components
Ignition switch
Ignition coil
Spark plugs
23
24
Fuel System
Electronic fuel injection
Used in all late-model vehicles
Injector pulse width controls fuel to engine
Almost instantaneous response to sensor
input
25
26
Lighting System
Provides illumination for night driving
Includes switches to control bulb
operation
Future systems
Fiber optics
Multiplexing
27
28
Instrumentation Systems
Navigation system
Displays road map
Provides vehicle location and direction
29
Wiper/Washer System
Primarily electrical
Small DC motor operates wipers
Electric pump in washer fluid reservoir
30
Horn System
Switch on steering wheel
Relay sends current to horn
31
32
33
34
Sound System
Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
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Restraint System
Protects occupants during collision
Deploys when system detects rapid
vehicle deceleration
36
37
Suspension System
Stability control system controls shock
absorber stiffness
Active suspension system makes
wheels follow road surface
38
39
Brake System
Anti-lock brake system maintains
Directional stability
Steerability
40
41
42
Review
Which automotive system produces the
high voltage that operates a vehicles
spark plugs?
Answer: ignition system
43
Review
What is the purpose of a stability
control system?
Answer: It controls shock absorber stiffness.
44
Review
What are the principal components in
an anti-lock brake system?
Answer: wheel speed sensors, computer,
hydraulic actuator
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