Principles of Operation: Notes

The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) utilizes a microprocessor to control the gauge, indicator, message center and warning chime functions. Data is sent to the IPC  over the High Speed Controller Area Network (HS-CAN) and through hardwired circuitry from individual components. The IPC  uses each input to output an action to the gauges, indicators, message center or chime arbitrator.

When diagnosing an IPC  concern, it is very important to understand:

• where the input originates.
• all of the information necessary for a feature to operate.
• which module(s) receive(s) the input or command message.
• which module controls the output of the feature.
• whether the module that receives the input controls the output of the feature, or whether it outputs a message over the communication network to another module.