EFIgnition46 vs EFIgnition88

The EFIgnition 46 is built on the 25MHz MC9S12C64, while the EFIgnition 88 is based on the 50MHz MC9S12XEP100. Both ECUs operate similarly, utilizing the user-friendly interface software: TunerStudio. This software allows for quick, easy, and effective tuning of both ECUs.

EFIgnition 46

The smaller and slower processor of the EFIgnition 46 is still up-to-date. It has all the necessary functions, sufficient resolution, and speed to ensure optimal engine performance, whether on the track or on public roads. 

It includes the necessary inputs for basic sensors:

• Crankshaft position
• Camshaft position
• MAP sensor
• TPS sensor
• CLT sensor
• IAT sensor
• Lambda sensor

It also has the required outputs to control the engine:

• 4x Injector output (HighZ)
• 6x Coil output (Going high, 60mA, 12V)
• Stepper motor output (4-wire, 750mA)
• 1x PWM F-idle output
• Fuel pump output (ON/OFF)

In certain cases, a choice must be made regarding how a function is utilized:

• Coil output C (pin 35) OR freely programmable output (pin 15)
• Coil output D (pin 36) OR freely programmable output (pin 36)
• Coil output E (pin 37) OR tachometer output (pin 37) OR analog input (pin 21)
• Coil output F (pin 38) OR tachometer output (pin 38) OR analog input (pin 22)
•  

Digital inputs (2x):

• Ethanol sensor (Flex fuel)
• Knock input via external module
• Table switch for VE/ignition maps
• Idle up (Air conditioning)

Communication:

• RS232
• USB
• Bluetooth
• CAN bus
• Expansion boards
• Displays
• Lambda controllers

Datalogging/autotune:

Possible with connected PC or Android.

EFIgnition 88

This ECU features a much faster processor with more memory and additional input/output pins, making it a powerful option for demanding projects. It still offers a user-friendly experience and includes many features in the software for further refining engine performance, with a significantly greater number of tuning options compared to the EFIgnition 46.

As with the EFIgnition 46, the basic sensor inputs are present:

• Crankshaft position
• Camshaft position
• MAP sensor
• TPS sensor
• CLT sensor
• IAT sensor
• Lambda sensor

Now, there are more connections supported by software:

• 2nd lambda input
• Oil temperature
• Oil pressure
• Barometric correction
• Freely assignable analog input
• 2x Knock sensor input (conditioning circuit in ECU)
• 5x VR/HALL inputs for wheel speed, vehicle speed, or multiple camshafts with continuously variable timing

The following outputs are available:

• 8x injector outputs (if unused, they are freely assignable) (HighZ)
• 8x coil outputs (if unused, they are freely assignable) (Going high, 60mA, 12V)
• Stepper motor output (4-wire)
• 1x tachometer output
• Fuel pump output with PWM function
• 9x (!) freely programmable outputs with PWM function

Digital inputs (4x) for:

• Ethanol sensor (Flex fuel)
• Knock input via external module
• Table switch for VE/ignition maps
• 2-step Launch
• ALS

Datalogging/autotune:

The EFIgnition is equipped with a 16GB internal SD card for datalogging. It also has an internal clock powered by a battery lasting 48 hours.

Communication:

• RS232
• USB
• Bluetooth
• WiFi
• CAN bus
  • Expansion boards
  • Displays
  • Lambda controllers
  • E-throttle modules
  • Transmission controllers

EFIgnition 46 VS EFIgnition 88 in use:

The hardware differences are significant. The EFIgnition 46 is a highly capable, stable, and reliable ECU that we enjoy working with. For most projects, this ECU offers sufficient I/Os and software support.

The EFIgnition 88 has over twice the number of available ports and features. The analog inputs and 5V supplies on the EFIgnition 88 are protected against overvoltage, with three individually protected 5V supplies (1x internal, 2x external).

Software:

There is more memory available, and larger maps can be utilized. The software capabilities of the EFIgnition 88 are vastly expanded compared to the EFIgnition 46. While the ECU fundamentally operates similarly to the EFIgnition 46, it allows for more activations and refinements in tuning, so you need not feel intimidated by the numerous options.

Conclusion:

The EFIgnition 88 is an advancement over the 46. Where the EFIgnition 88 excels:

• More analog inputs
• More hardware outputs, ideal for engines with more than 4 cylinders
• Better and more extensive software support
• Faster processor with improved performance, accuracy, and resolution
• Enhanced hardware protection
• Internal datalogging memory with a clock
• PWM outputs for fuel pump/water pump/fan
• Knock sensor inputs