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The term "Electronic Control Unit" (ECU) is used in automotive engineering to refer to electronic embedded systems within a car that control everything from driver controls to ABS braking and power door locks. They are commonly connected together on a shared digital interface known as a Controller Area Network (CAN). This interface can deliver both data between boards and supply moderate amounts of low voltage power. The primary source of low voltage power comes from DC power supplies in the car that convert battery voltage (typically 120V) to 12V.
See Intro to Solar Car Electrical Systems for an overview of how a solar car's electrical system fits together.
Midnight Sun's ECUs
Midnight Sun's current electrical system has 5 types of ECUs to control the primary vehicle systems:
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