Possible alternative to JET ECU chip, the UNICHIP, by the Racer's Group
08-03-2001 | 12:49 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Prez & GC, .Net
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 57
Likes: 0
From: MD
Possible alternative to JET ECU chip, the UNICHIP, by the Racer's Group
http://superhonda.org/board/showthre...824#post433824
More info here. As far as I know, they don't make one for the Acura-CL/S yet, but since the engines are very similar it probably won't take too long to modify their piggyback chip to work w/ the Acura-CL/S. Try calling them. If enough folks bug them, I'm sure they'll make it.
Dizzy
--------------------------------------
What is a Unichip?
Unichip is a fully programmable engine management system which allows 442 optimized fuel and ignition parameters to be channeled through a vehicle's standard Engine Control unit (ECU) to deliver maximum power, optimized drivability and improved fuel economy. Unichip works in harmony with the standard ECU (compatible w/ OBD1 and OBD2) and it can be better described as a “Piggy Back” computer.
What makes the Unichip different then other aftermarket chips on the market?
Unlike other performance chips, the Unichip is not a replacement, pre-programmed "one size fits all" chip. The advantage of the UNICHIP is that the software allows the qualified tuner to make his own changes, on the dyno, in real time.
Another advantage of the Unichip is that it is re-programmable.
If the conventional 'chip' tuning route were followed then a new 'chip' would be required for each new modification, and of course the 'chip' would be roughly based on a similar type car, and not tailored map for your individual car's requirements.
Why should I install a Unichip to my car?
The most obvious reason is to increase engine performance. Significant gains in torque and power across the entire RPM range are possible. In addition, the engine will be smoother, deliver greater response and maximize fuel efficiency at all RPM and throttle positions. A second reason is to harness the performance value of engine and exhaust modifications. Standard engine management systems are not programmed to cater for exhaust headers, cat back exhaust systems, high flow air cleaners, performance cam shafts or larger turbochargers and intercoolers etc…
How difficult is it to tune a car using the Unichip?
It is easy compared to a standalone ECU system where cold start, acceleration enrichment etc .. needs to be programmed. With the Unichip the car is solely tuned where it needs to be tuned.
How does Unichip increase engine power?
Every engine requires optimum ignition timing and air fuel ratio at all RPM and load conditions. Unichip gives the experienced dynamometer technician the access to and the ability to adjust and optimize both the ignition and fuel system. Unichip has 17 RPM sites between 500 RPM and 8000 RPM and 13 load sites between zero throttle position and wide-open throttle position. This equates to 221 possible adjustments for fuel and a further 221 adjustments for ignition timing.
How much extra power can I expect from Unichip?
Power gains of 10 HP to 40 HP are common, as measured by an accurate chassis dynamometer. Whilst less common, power gains of 60 HP have been verified. The exact power gain however depends on the engine size, design and condition of the engine and the factory calibration of the engine control unit. No two engines are identical. The Unichip results represent the optimization of each individual engine. Unichip results are verified by comparing before and after dynamometer tests measured at 100% throttle opening across the entire RPM range.
Will Unichip improve my car's fuel economy?
Yes. In most driving conditions, Unichip will improve fuel economy. Typically, power is optimized at full throttle and fuel economy is optimized at partial throttle. With Unichip, it is a simple procedure to correctly adjust the air fuel ratio over 13 throttle positions and maximize the fuel economy for cruising at partial throttle.
What are the engine management advantages of Unichip?
Unlike many other engine management systems, Unichip does not alter the cold start, knock sensors, water temperature sensors, air temperature sensors or oxygen sensors. All remain genuine components. A major advantage of Unichip is that it works in harmony with the factory ECU to enhance and unleash the best possible performance result without compromising engine durability.
Is the original factory engine control unit modified by installing Unichip?
No. Unichip is a supplementary computer which is programmed to contain the optimum fuel and ignition adjustments for each individual engine. the factory engine management control unit is not altered in any way. The Unichip is simply installed by connecting to the wires of the original factory ECU.
Is Unichip suitable for all Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) cars?
Most EFI cars, whether normally aspirated, turbocharged, supercharged, with 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 or 12 cylinders respond brilliantly to Unichip enhancement.
Who can install Unichip?
Authorized Unichip dealers throughout North America can service and advise you on Unichip features. Each is a tuning specialist and operate their own dynamometer facilities. Talk to your dealer about reprogramming your Unichip if you install engine enhancement products after your initial Unichip installation.
Unichip real time tuning - What does this mean?
Real time tuning describes the process whereby adjustments are made to the ignition timing and air fuel ratio whilst running the vehicle on a dynamometer. In doing so, the technician can optimize power output at any RPM point. For example, if we run the vehicle at 2,000 RPM, we can increase the ignition timing to the point of maximum power before reaching combustion detonation. The same practice applies to the air fuel ratio. We can clearly see, by watching the dynamometer power graph, what air fuel ratio produces the highest power at 2,000 RPM.
Is it safe to tune my car on a Dynamometer?
Yes, it is safe. A dynamometer does not create any greater load on the engine than what you experience in normal driving conditions. Very efficient cooling fans are utilized to ensure safe engine temperature control.
Does the Unichip need to be serviced or retuned?
The Unichip will not lose its memory if the battery is disconnected. There is no need to readjust the Unichip unless the engine has been modified. It is nearly impossible for the Unichip data to change after the Unichip ECU has been programmed, causing the engine to be detuned. It is possible however for the fuel pressure to drop (if the fuel pump deteriorates) which would cause the engine to run a leaner air fuel ratio than normal. Other items such as fuel injectors and spark plugs will need servicing from time to time which will also change the state of engine tune.
Should I use low or high octane fuel with Unichip.
Your engine should always be tuned using the fuel which you intend to use day to day. If, for example, you like to race your car on the weekends, two ignition maps can be entered into the Unichip. The first would be for daily driving utilizing low octane fuel. The second map would be for racing, utilizing high octane fuel. Switching between the two maps can be accomplished with a simple toggle switch.
Where is the Unichip physically installed?
The Unichip ECU is usually fastened to the factory engine control unit using velcro tape. The Unichip ECU is marginally larger that a cigarette pack. Dimensions are approximately 6 in long x 3 in wide x 3/4 in thick.
What time is required to install Unichip?
This depends on the engine configuration and whether the engine is standard or has been modified, normally aspirated or turbocharged and whether it is two or four wheel drive. A vehicle, which is factory standard, normally aspirated and two-wheel drive can typically be completed in 3 hours. A more sophisticated vehicle such as a 996 Twin Turbo Porsche may take longer due to the extra mapping of turbocharger pressure.
Can Unichip be removed and reinstalled on another car?
Removing Unichip is a simple 30 minute procedure. Once the Unichip is removed, the factory engine control unit is returned to standard condition. It is possible that the Unichip will be suitable for your next car, albeit appropriately reprogrammed. There are four popular variants of Unichip hardware. If by chance your current Unichip ECU is not suitable for your next car, talk to your authorized Unichip dealer.
Unichip product warranty?
A 12 month unlimited mileage warranty applies for all Unichip ECU's
What are the disadvantages of the standard ECU?
Manufacturers spend many years, and millions of dollars, developing ECU's, but they must make compromises to take into account differing climatic conditions, the quality of fuel and servicing, and even production tolerances.
What adjustments to air / fuel ratio and timing can be made?
The Unichip software can be configured to work with any type of sensor and can adjust fuelling by +/- 50% and ignition by +/- 25 degrees. Additional fuel injectors can be added in highly modified engines where more fuel is required, beyond what can be controlled by normal tuning.
Does the Unichip only control timing and fuel?
*NO, The Unichip can also be used for the following functions:
*Change switch over points for variable cam timing control (VTEC, VVT, etc.)
*Electronic boost control
*Water injection
*Override speed limiter
*Drive additional injectors
*Raise your rev limiter
*Achieve progressive nitrous control with retarded timing
*Provide launch control on turbo-charged applications
*Replace mechanical ignition system with mapped ignition
*Optimize timing and fuel map settings
*Easily re-programmable
*Real time tuning via laptop
More info here. As far as I know, they don't make one for the Acura-CL/S yet, but since the engines are very similar it probably won't take too long to modify their piggyback chip to work w/ the Acura-CL/S. Try calling them. If enough folks bug them, I'm sure they'll make it.
Dizzy
--------------------------------------
What is a Unichip?
Unichip is a fully programmable engine management system which allows 442 optimized fuel and ignition parameters to be channeled through a vehicle's standard Engine Control unit (ECU) to deliver maximum power, optimized drivability and improved fuel economy. Unichip works in harmony with the standard ECU (compatible w/ OBD1 and OBD2) and it can be better described as a “Piggy Back” computer.
What makes the Unichip different then other aftermarket chips on the market?
Unlike other performance chips, the Unichip is not a replacement, pre-programmed "one size fits all" chip. The advantage of the UNICHIP is that the software allows the qualified tuner to make his own changes, on the dyno, in real time.
Another advantage of the Unichip is that it is re-programmable.
If the conventional 'chip' tuning route were followed then a new 'chip' would be required for each new modification, and of course the 'chip' would be roughly based on a similar type car, and not tailored map for your individual car's requirements.
Why should I install a Unichip to my car?
The most obvious reason is to increase engine performance. Significant gains in torque and power across the entire RPM range are possible. In addition, the engine will be smoother, deliver greater response and maximize fuel efficiency at all RPM and throttle positions. A second reason is to harness the performance value of engine and exhaust modifications. Standard engine management systems are not programmed to cater for exhaust headers, cat back exhaust systems, high flow air cleaners, performance cam shafts or larger turbochargers and intercoolers etc…
How difficult is it to tune a car using the Unichip?
It is easy compared to a standalone ECU system where cold start, acceleration enrichment etc .. needs to be programmed. With the Unichip the car is solely tuned where it needs to be tuned.
How does Unichip increase engine power?
Every engine requires optimum ignition timing and air fuel ratio at all RPM and load conditions. Unichip gives the experienced dynamometer technician the access to and the ability to adjust and optimize both the ignition and fuel system. Unichip has 17 RPM sites between 500 RPM and 8000 RPM and 13 load sites between zero throttle position and wide-open throttle position. This equates to 221 possible adjustments for fuel and a further 221 adjustments for ignition timing.
How much extra power can I expect from Unichip?
Power gains of 10 HP to 40 HP are common, as measured by an accurate chassis dynamometer. Whilst less common, power gains of 60 HP have been verified. The exact power gain however depends on the engine size, design and condition of the engine and the factory calibration of the engine control unit. No two engines are identical. The Unichip results represent the optimization of each individual engine. Unichip results are verified by comparing before and after dynamometer tests measured at 100% throttle opening across the entire RPM range.
Will Unichip improve my car's fuel economy?
Yes. In most driving conditions, Unichip will improve fuel economy. Typically, power is optimized at full throttle and fuel economy is optimized at partial throttle. With Unichip, it is a simple procedure to correctly adjust the air fuel ratio over 13 throttle positions and maximize the fuel economy for cruising at partial throttle.
What are the engine management advantages of Unichip?
Unlike many other engine management systems, Unichip does not alter the cold start, knock sensors, water temperature sensors, air temperature sensors or oxygen sensors. All remain genuine components. A major advantage of Unichip is that it works in harmony with the factory ECU to enhance and unleash the best possible performance result without compromising engine durability.
Is the original factory engine control unit modified by installing Unichip?
No. Unichip is a supplementary computer which is programmed to contain the optimum fuel and ignition adjustments for each individual engine. the factory engine management control unit is not altered in any way. The Unichip is simply installed by connecting to the wires of the original factory ECU.
Is Unichip suitable for all Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) cars?
Most EFI cars, whether normally aspirated, turbocharged, supercharged, with 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 or 12 cylinders respond brilliantly to Unichip enhancement.
Who can install Unichip?
Authorized Unichip dealers throughout North America can service and advise you on Unichip features. Each is a tuning specialist and operate their own dynamometer facilities. Talk to your dealer about reprogramming your Unichip if you install engine enhancement products after your initial Unichip installation.
Unichip real time tuning - What does this mean?
Real time tuning describes the process whereby adjustments are made to the ignition timing and air fuel ratio whilst running the vehicle on a dynamometer. In doing so, the technician can optimize power output at any RPM point. For example, if we run the vehicle at 2,000 RPM, we can increase the ignition timing to the point of maximum power before reaching combustion detonation. The same practice applies to the air fuel ratio. We can clearly see, by watching the dynamometer power graph, what air fuel ratio produces the highest power at 2,000 RPM.
Is it safe to tune my car on a Dynamometer?
Yes, it is safe. A dynamometer does not create any greater load on the engine than what you experience in normal driving conditions. Very efficient cooling fans are utilized to ensure safe engine temperature control.
Does the Unichip need to be serviced or retuned?
The Unichip will not lose its memory if the battery is disconnected. There is no need to readjust the Unichip unless the engine has been modified. It is nearly impossible for the Unichip data to change after the Unichip ECU has been programmed, causing the engine to be detuned. It is possible however for the fuel pressure to drop (if the fuel pump deteriorates) which would cause the engine to run a leaner air fuel ratio than normal. Other items such as fuel injectors and spark plugs will need servicing from time to time which will also change the state of engine tune.
Should I use low or high octane fuel with Unichip.
Your engine should always be tuned using the fuel which you intend to use day to day. If, for example, you like to race your car on the weekends, two ignition maps can be entered into the Unichip. The first would be for daily driving utilizing low octane fuel. The second map would be for racing, utilizing high octane fuel. Switching between the two maps can be accomplished with a simple toggle switch.
Where is the Unichip physically installed?
The Unichip ECU is usually fastened to the factory engine control unit using velcro tape. The Unichip ECU is marginally larger that a cigarette pack. Dimensions are approximately 6 in long x 3 in wide x 3/4 in thick.
What time is required to install Unichip?
This depends on the engine configuration and whether the engine is standard or has been modified, normally aspirated or turbocharged and whether it is two or four wheel drive. A vehicle, which is factory standard, normally aspirated and two-wheel drive can typically be completed in 3 hours. A more sophisticated vehicle such as a 996 Twin Turbo Porsche may take longer due to the extra mapping of turbocharger pressure.
Can Unichip be removed and reinstalled on another car?
Removing Unichip is a simple 30 minute procedure. Once the Unichip is removed, the factory engine control unit is returned to standard condition. It is possible that the Unichip will be suitable for your next car, albeit appropriately reprogrammed. There are four popular variants of Unichip hardware. If by chance your current Unichip ECU is not suitable for your next car, talk to your authorized Unichip dealer.
Unichip product warranty?
A 12 month unlimited mileage warranty applies for all Unichip ECU's
What are the disadvantages of the standard ECU?
Manufacturers spend many years, and millions of dollars, developing ECU's, but they must make compromises to take into account differing climatic conditions, the quality of fuel and servicing, and even production tolerances.
What adjustments to air / fuel ratio and timing can be made?
The Unichip software can be configured to work with any type of sensor and can adjust fuelling by +/- 50% and ignition by +/- 25 degrees. Additional fuel injectors can be added in highly modified engines where more fuel is required, beyond what can be controlled by normal tuning.
Does the Unichip only control timing and fuel?
*NO, The Unichip can also be used for the following functions:
*Change switch over points for variable cam timing control (VTEC, VVT, etc.)
*Electronic boost control
*Water injection
*Override speed limiter
*Drive additional injectors
*Raise your rev limiter
*Achieve progressive nitrous control with retarded timing
*Provide launch control on turbo-charged applications
*Replace mechanical ignition system with mapped ignition
*Optimize timing and fuel map settings
*Easily re-programmable
*Real time tuning via laptop
08-03-2001 | 12:52 PM
#2
Suzuka Master
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 7,601
Likes: 0
From: Northern VA
This is old news but good news. Unichip said they are sopose to come out w/ a new unit by june but no new info. I also called my local dealer that can install unichip and they said 400 for unichip then 200 for install. w/ 30day guarantee and free removal.
but also some people claimed once they shut off the car and started it back up the factory ecu would readjust and relearn so no point. but not sure if its true.
but also some people claimed once they shut off the car and started it back up the factory ecu would readjust and relearn so no point. but not sure if its true.
08-03-2001 | 01:06 PM
#3
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 99
Likes: 0
From: San Carlos, CA
Hey Guys,
I live fairly close to Sears Point and The Racers Group. I had the Unichip/Program installed in my CL-S in Feb. and then after an independant dyno proved no gains, I had them remove it. They are great guys and are working on it(The Program), but the consensus seemed to be that initially there were power gains but that indeed our ecu would relearn negating the gains. Also, they were only able to control fuel on our cars, not the timing.
They were working on the next generation that would control the timing and air/fuel. So, you might want to confirm that they were successful with this before you move forward.
Kevin
[ 08-03-2001: Message edited by: Kevin M ]
I live fairly close to Sears Point and The Racers Group. I had the Unichip/Program installed in my CL-S in Feb. and then after an independant dyno proved no gains, I had them remove it. They are great guys and are working on it(The Program), but the consensus seemed to be that initially there were power gains but that indeed our ecu would relearn negating the gains. Also, they were only able to control fuel on our cars, not the timing.
They were working on the next generation that would control the timing and air/fuel. So, you might want to confirm that they were successful with this before you move forward.
Kevin
[ 08-03-2001: Message edited by: Kevin M ]
08-03-2001 | 01:06 PM
#4
Thread Starter
Prez & GC, .Net
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 57
Likes: 0
From: MD
Hmm..never heard of the ECU reset problem. One of our members who is testing the chip hasn't noticed the ECU relearning after restart. That sounds like it wasn't installed correctly.
Dizzy
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