The purpose of this test is to examine the driver voltages and the current draw during both driver events, making it possible to see whether both coils draw the same amount of current during the operation cycle.
Connection for diagnostic work will vary dependent on application.
Technicians should whenever possible gain access to the test circuit without damage to seals and insulation. If this is not possible then make sure appropriate repairs are completed.
General connection advice
PicoScope offers a range of options within the test kits.
Dependent on difficulty of access, choose from:
Testing sensors and actuators (to include relevant circuit/connectors):
Note: This helpfile refers to a 10:1 attenuator. If you are using a 20:1 attenuator please adjust the Probe settings for the relevant channel. These settings can be found under the Channel Options button, then: Probe > 20:1 Attenuator.
WARNING;
This test involves measuring a potentially hazardous voltage.
Please ensure you follow manufacturers safety instructions and working practices and ensure the rated voltage for all accessories you are using meets or exceeds the expected voltage.
Note;
10:1 attenuators are used on both channel A and Channel B.
Note;
If your current waveform does not appear or looks to be inverted. Stop the test, remove the clamp turn it around and re-fit. Then start and run the test again.
The waveform shows the driver voltages for both windings in the ignition coil. It also shows the current drawn during both driver events, allowing you to see if both coils are drawing the same amount of current during the operating cycle.
Go to the drop-down menu bar at the lower left corner of the Waveform Library window and select, DIS / wasted spark ignition primary voltage
Example DIS coil pack
DIS has major advantages over the distributor-based ignition system. These advantages include an absence of rotating high-voltage distribution components, and far lower levels of electromagnetic interference.
DIS is fitted only to vehicles that have an even number of cylinders, such as 2, 4, 6 or 8. This is because two cylinders are connected to one coil, which can send a spark to both cylinders at the same time. This system is commonly known as a wasted spark system. The two spark plugs are arranged so that one is fired on the power stroke of the engine and the other on the exhaust stroke of the opposing cylinder, offset by 360 degrees. After a complete rotation of the engine the two cylinders are now on the opposing strokes and the two spark plugs fire again but with opposite roles.
On a four-cylinder engine, there are two coils with individual drivers that tend to operate cylinders 1 and 4, and 2 and 3. This means there is a dual spark every 180 degrees, with one of those sparks wasted on an exhaust stroke of the opposing cylinder which is firing on the power stroke.
For further information, see the following topics:
GT395-1
Disclaimer
This help topic is subject to changes without notification. The information within is carefully checked and considered to be correct. This information is an example of our investigations and findings and is not a definitive procedure. Pico Technology accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies. Each vehicle may be different and require unique test settings.
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