FixVault

Signal shape and setpoint values

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 45 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, 2016 BMW 535i xDrive, and 2016 BMW 535i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine control unit reads in the sensor signal and then compares that signal against a template in its memory unit. By comparing the sensor signal against this saved template, the precise position of the camshaft or the deviation is identified.

Fig 1: Camshaft Sensor Signal Waveform
G09908164Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Example 6-cylinder diesel engine

Item Explanation
1 Intake camshaft
2 Intake camshaft signal
3 Reference mark for top dead center, cylinder 1 (ignition)
4 Cylinder

Observe the following setpoint values for the camshaft sensor:

Variable Value
Voltage range 6 to 16 Volts
Engine speed range 0 to 4000 rpm
Air gap range 0.4 to 1.9 mm
Maximum output current 20 mA
Temperature range -40 °C to 160 °C