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]

F4i,
I have thought about the upgrade of the FI to full EMS, buying complete will cost less. For future upgrades certain parts will have to be installed on the FI unit and not used, there will also be an additional inline sensor that conditions ignition signals for use for sync of the fuel injection. What is saved in FI only, is the quad coil, distributor and some wiring.

The optimal dwell control, and the ability to alter timing maps, and the elimination of the rotor are the main reasons to go with the complete system.

Here is more for info for the technical curious:

The dual coil (quad terminal) arrangement creates more spark energy more efficiently than a conventional single coil ignition. With a conventional system, the dwell time is a certain number of degrees, 48 for example. When the engine revolves slow at idle the 48 degrees is a long period of time, wasting energy and at high rpm it is very short, resulting in the coil not being completely charged. The coil takes a finite period of time to charge depending on coil inductance, battery voltage and series resistance. The EMS takes all of this into account and fully charges the coils for each ignition event. The two coils allow overlap of charging, and greater RPM potential not possible with the single coil. The EMS ignition eliminates the rotor and distributor function of the distributor cap.

The stock distributor cap with close spacing and lack of internal ribs is a problem area when a more powerful CDI or ignition is fitted. The EMS direct-fire approach, coil to plug arrangement is the way to go. Some have wondered why not coil-on-plug? There is an economy in using the quad coil arrangement, less power drivers, less coils and wiring. Heat is also an issue at the plug for air cooled engines. Coils and heat do not go well together for long term reliability. Otherwise the advantage of the coil-on-plug, is to eliminate the high tension wires.

Kit