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Alpha/N "Piggyback" ECU
Q: Will VAC ever sell an Alpha/N?
A: After some customers had requested Alpha-N tuning we had considered selling the conventional Alpha-N units. On further review and much feedback from our customers; we felt that rather than offering an outdated and expensive technology we would attempt to offer a less expensive piggy back option with more features as well as setting our sights on finding an inexpensive Standalone ECU that met VAC standards. This proved to be no easy task. The Alpha-N type piggybacks avalible had mixed feedback... While customers enjoyed the power gains under some conditions, they felt they traded some reliability, drivability, and consistency for this full throttle enhancement. They also were disappointed with the time it took to achive a proper tune even with a pre-programmed base map. If they lived in an area with seasonal climate change, they found the Alpha/N would need to be reprogrammed from time to time.
Rather than offer the traditional product that offers no safety measure, ignition control, or programmability outside of fooling the factory Motronic ECU. We decided after almost two years of looking to go with the KMS line of ECUs. They offer more features per dollar and unlimited potential. If you are interested in a fuel only controller like an Alpha-N unit but with more features, we do offer a KMS unit that starts at only $899.95, a significant savings over the obsolite Alpha/N system from Europe. |
Q: What is an Alpha/ N ECU?
A: Alpha-N is not a brand or model of ECU, but actually represents tuning your fuel map referencing Throttle Position, or Throttle Percentage vs RPM.
When referenced in the E30 M3 community, it usually means one of several different brands of piggyback fuel computers.
This computer programmed with a TPS Vs RPM map sends a signal simulating the AFM to a base map on a software chip inside the factory Bosch Motronic ECU. Traditional Alpha-N systems have no live load-compensation.
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Q: I am on a budget, I heard that the Alpha/N is a good budget option, isn't this true?
A: Depends on what features and performance you are seeking for your money:
-"Alpha-N" Piggyback Kit: $1100+ Shipping from Germany
-Install
-Approximately twice the dyno time of a standalone....
-Poor US customer support, limited European support
-No support outside of E30 M3 specialists
***Standard Features***
start up base map (should not be used for driving)
**Optional**
dash mounted shift light
VS.
a
full standalone unit with dozens more features, expandability,
diagnostics and base maps usually running between $300-1200 more
Standard Features like.....
Base maps for S14s (2.3, 2.5, big cams, etc.),
Programmable ignition,
upgradeable software,
complete engine management up to 12 cylinders,
Wide band lambda-control with self learning,
Idle-control,
3 auxiliary outputs (shift-light, water injection, cooling fan etc.),
2 Engine load sensors,
Launch-control,
Engine diagnostics,
Integrated boost-control
gear dependent boost control, if turbo,
**Optional**
VANOS control (if you decide to swap to an S52, S54, etc.),
Billet Aluminum enclosure option with upgraded harness,
Distributor-less ignition option
in-car wide band lambda and sensor display, |
Q: What is the idea behind the Alpha/N
A: The concept behind an Alpha-N piggyback is to let the end user eliminate the restrictive factory Motronic AFM, thereby increasing power output and throttle response.
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