KitCarlson EMS Poll, How many should I build ??? Options

[KitCarlson]

Hey,

I know this question has a difficult answer. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif) I would like to know a ball park number of EMS units to build in the first release. I need to order the mechanical parts and work with a contract manufacturer for the board build. Setup costs can be a significant cost for small orders. Lead time is also a concern.

Why is this question difficult? You are being asked to suggest to me your potential interest without knowing the exact cost or performance of the system.

The beta test unit is not yet in operation due to Brad's move. It was my hope to have un-biased tests in progress at this time. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif) I have been working on the system full time since the start in October. The next step is to be production ready.

For those wondering what is the EMS. It is an engine management system that provides direct ignition, fuel, idle, and turbo boost control for VW and Porsche engines. It uses a special optical distributor sensor means to avoid the mechanical difficulties in crank/cam sensors. The ignition timing is electronic. The unit provides an easy upgrade for the D-Jetronic or L-Jetronic systems. The system will be sold turn-key with all parts and harness.
For more information please visit: http://home.mindspring.com/~dave.c/kitcarlson/

Please use a personal message to suggest your interest. I will answer questions you may have.

I really appreciate this BB that works to unite all 914 owners, and a means to conduct this poll.

Kit

[KitCarlson]

I guess what I'd like to see is modern replacements of the d jet components.

Exactly what the KitCarlson EMS is, solid state pressure sensor replacing MPS, resistive TPS replacing throttle switch, digital uC replacing the analog brain, elimination of cold start valve: FI points, time temperature delay switches, ignition points, rotor, vacuum advance unit, and advance mechanism. In my mind exactly what is required for a modern tunable system.

Carrera916,
Here is my life's story:
I started working with electronics at age 7 (42 years ago). At 16 I developed a working optical CDI ignition from scratch for a 1966 Dodge Coronet. I had to develop all of this without my parents knowing it. You were only to fix something when it was broke.
I graduated from high school, and went to find a university. I explained to several professors what I had done and the response was, "the auto makers will never replace the 50 cent points!". I built the ignition to solve a ping problem on a cylinder or two on a +100,000 engine. The wobble of the distributor cam changed timing an a cylinder or two. The optical sensor eliminated the problem. In and out wobble varies the point gap and timing, but not on an optical trigger.

I have spent the last 27 years developing industrial electronics. This work involved measurement systems, uC, and software programming as well as project management. I have done many things that have not made sense due to management interventions. I still managed to make things very profitable for my employers.

I spent my weekends and evening on my therapy projects
It took me a while to get going. I have been working on this EFI since 1997. I first developed a board with a 68HC912, the chip prior to the HC908 used in the Mega-Squirt. It was very similar in design to the present Mega-Squirt. The 68HC912 was an ill fated controller, never met all the sales hype. I never tested the system on an engine.
I started working with a new line of AVR uC's and found that it was easy to implement my ideas in hardware and software. I built some basic electronics to bench test my ideas, make sparks and developed code. I had a hard time making the jump, to try it on an engine. When the key was turned and the engine started and ran well, I was completely blown away. Why didn't I do it sooner? Well, I might not have been completely ready.

I am poor too. I work with junk engines, eat beans, and love my work. I have a supportive wife and dog.

I have built the right system to replace the D-Jet. It runs great!, all the time. Much simpler and adjustable, and provides significant real-time information.

I need to release more information to help in the understanding of how it connects and works. It is also a good design for universal fuel injection and ignition. There are several unreleased features that will completely take the high-end market, with the use of multiple units.

Kit