Computer Chips

How and why do they manufacture these chips and programers? To anwser that we got information from hyper-tech, a well respected name in this area. They state:

A dynamometer (dyno) is a machine which allows an engine to run under real-world conditions in a laboratory setting while monitoring all important input and output variables. While the engine is running on the dyno, proprietary hardware and software designed by our engineers allow us to experimentally find the best air/fuel ratio and spark advance for that engine speed and load which simulates a particular road or track condition. As the air/fuel ratio and spark advance are altered in very small increments, we observe the effects on torque, power, fuel consumption, exhaust gas temperature, etc. When optimized values at those conditions have been determined, we store that information, move to the next set of conditions, and then repeat the optimization routine.

Although we have been talking about increasing power with our optimization methods, what we are actually doing is increasing the efficiency of the engine. When more power is extracted from each molecule of gasoline, it requires less throttle opening to maintain cruising speed. This results in better fuel economy. Because of the nature of daily driving, (accelerating from a stop, pulling a load, etc.) even if you never go to a race track, you will still enjoy the benefits of quicker, easier acceleration and improved fuel economy with Hypertech Power Tuning Programs.

The more advanced vehicle computers now control more than just spark advance and air/fuel ratio. At Hypertech we search for any computer-controlled function that effects performance, and we optimize it. Cooling fan on and off temperature settings are adjusted to work with the 160 degree Hypertech PowerStat for a denser charge of fuel and air. Torque converter lock-up speeds are set for best drivability. On our chassis dyno, we experimentally determine the best shift points and shift firmness to yield the lowest elapsed times and the highest miles per hour.... and you thought you needed a shift kit! When performance can be gained without risk to the engine or valve train, we raise the rev limiters. The Hypertech Power Programmer allows you to correct the speedometer calibration and transmission shift points for changes in tire size and rear end gear ratio changes. And finally, with the Power Programmer, the top speed limiter can be corrected for the speed rating of your tires.

The factory program is designed for the average driver and is set to take a wide variety of operating conditions and driving styles into consideration. Consequently, stock calibrations aren't set to provide maximum power because they have to accommodate drivers who may use poor quality gasoline. For a real hi-performance person, 93 octane is all they put in their vehicle. At Hypertech, we optimize the spark and fuel curves over the entire RPM band from just off idle right up to the red-line for maximum power and performance from the best gasoline.   

Well what does all this mean to my car?

I have seen a solid gain of .5 tenths of a second in various cars with these products. Are they worth it? Only if you plan to do mild modifications, like exhaust work and intake stuff but not if you plan on opening up the engine with a cam or even rockers.We have owned two cars which use either one of these two products and I could say that I was satisfied. Also it seems to me that automatic cars benifit more than manual cars.