Step 1 – ECU Communication
A test car is obtained or a new factory ECU is purchased. Revo developed software tools are used to create communication protocols. These protocols allow the software engineers to read the ECU and create an ECU specific “profile”, locating maps and giving our in-house tuners access to the required areas with the ECU software.
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Step 2 – Benchmark vehicle testing
The test car is Dyno’d and road tested in standard form. High speed data acquisition is used to monitor the vehicles sensor outputs and feedback to determine how the engine performs with a “stock” factory ECU.
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Step 3 – Creation of ECU development programme
All the data acquired from the “stock” vehicle testing is analysed and software limitations identified. A test file, allowing us to change the “stock” ECU setting, is created. The limitations are reviewed, and where necessary tuning tables are modified to maximise performance.
Tuning isn’t as simple as increasing load, boost pressure and timing. To create the most efficient and usable software, the tuning has to be much more in depth. A significant amount of time required to achieve the correct balance to create a more powerful and usable car. For example, if it is identified that a higher boost pressure can be run; then for this target to be achieved it involves our tuners reviewing numerous tables and lines of data, modifying both the directly and indirectly effected areas of the software map to achieve optimum results whilst retaining the ECU’s adaptive nature and safety features. Through this extensive work our tuners create the ultimate performance map. We assure that the modifications can be run safely without the risk of component failure. These improved settings allow the engine and components to work with each other to the best of their abilities but never exceeding their safe limits.
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Step 4 – Programme Testing
Initial testing is run on the new ECU programme. Combining testing on the public roads and high speed testing at regional testing facilities, allows us to gather data on performance vs. fuel economy. As Revo software is used worldwide we continue the testing on varied fuel quality, from 95 ron to full race fuel.
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Step 5 – Dyno Testing
Once initial testing and modifications are complete and the software is reaching its full potential on the road, Dyno testing is again carried out. Power, Torque output and delivery are monitored and logged. Any further modifications deemed necessary are carried out and the software is finalised.
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Step 6 – Building in Adjustability
External factors can dramatically affect the performance of an engine. By adding further programming the software can be enhanced to include switching, building in adjustability, to take into account the external factors and minimise the affects. For example, timing will be adjusted depending on the grade of fuel and/or boost levels can be adjusted depending on the outside air temperature as this affects the air density. Once switching is programmed into the software, performance is again tested and settings optimised for each variation.
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Step 7 – Lifestyle testing and Completion
Longer term road testing is carried out, monitoring ECU adaptation, real world fuel economy and overall drivability of the car. If approved the software is then installed on a 2nd and a 3rd test vehicle. If all tests are passed and verified then the final product is ready for release.
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