Service Information: Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The microprocessor-based EMIC hardware and software uses various inputs to control the gauges and indicators visible on the face of the cluster. Some of these inputs are hard wired, but most are in the form of electronic messages that are transmitted by other electronic modules over the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/COMMUNICATION - OPERATION) .

The EMIC microprocessor smooths the input data using algorithms to provide gauge readings that are accurate, stable and responsive to operating conditions. These algorithms are designed to provide gauge readings during normal operation that are consistent with customer expectations. However, when abnormal conditions exist such as high coolant temperature, the algorithm can drive the gauge pointer to an extreme position and the microprocessor can sound a chime through the on-board audible tone transducer to provide distinct visual and audible indications of a problem to the vehicle operator. The EMIC may also produce audible warnings for other electronic modules in the vehicle based upon electronic tone request messages received over the CAN data bus. Each audible warning is intended to provide the vehicle operator with an audible alert to supplement a visual indication.

The EMIC circuitry operates on battery current received through a fused B(+) fuse on a non-switched fused B(+) circuit, and on battery current received through a fused ignition switch output (run-start) fuse on a fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. This arrangement allows the EMIC to provide some features regardless of the ignition switch position, while other features will operate only with the ignition switch in the On or Start positions. The EMIC circuitry is grounded through a ground circuit of the instrument panel wire harness.

The EMIC also has a self-diagnostic actuator test capability (Refer to ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING) , which will test each of the CAN bus message-controlled functions of the cluster by lighting the appropriate indicators, positioning the gauge needles at several predetermined calibration points across the gauge faces, and illuminating all segments of the odometer/trip odometer and gear selector indicator Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD) units.