DBW Throttle controller

Description

Overview

The LD Performance DBW Throttle Controller provides complete standalone control over electronic throttle valves — perfect for engines managed by standalone ECUs or custom builds.

This intelligent system offers lightning-fast throttle response and precision operation, supports 0–5V idle control, includes built-in antilag mode, and communicates via CAN bus for seamless integration with advanced ECUs.

Whether you’re building a race car, performing an engine swap, or upgrading throttle precision, this unit ensures consistent, safe, and tunable throttle behavior under all conditions.

Key Features

• Compatible with most electronic throttle valves
• Fast response and accurate control for race or street use
• CAN bus enabled for advanced ECU communication
• 0–5V analog idle control input
• Built-in antilag mode for launch setups
• Fully standalone — no external ECU required
• Safety-checked system with dual-sensor verification
• Compact and easy to integrate into any build

Pinout

Wiring & Installation

Connection to the throttle valve

Every electronic throttle valve uses six key wires, all connected to the top six pins of the DBW Controller.

• Motor1 / Motor2 – Drive the throttle motor.
  These can be identified by checking for a resistance under 10Ω at the throttle connector. Polarity is not important.
• POS1 / POS2 – Throttle position sensor inputs.
  The controller automatically identifies and calibrates both sensors.
• 5V and Ground – Power and ground for position sensors.
  Provided directly by the DBW controller.

Power supply

Connect a stable 12V power source (active with ignition ON) and ground to the respective pins. Ground should be connected to the GND IN terminal.

Pedal Position sensors

Pedal sensors operate like throttle sensors and require 5V and ground from the controller.
They output PPS1 and PPS2 position signals.

Note: It’s essential that PPS1 voltage increases as the pedal is pressed.

If only one sensor (PPS1) is used, the system will function, but redundancy is reduced. The controller checks both sensors during calibration to ensure safety.

Calibration Procedure

The controller must be calibrated before first use or after changing the throttle body.

1. Connect the CAL wire to ground.
2. Fully depress the throttle pedal.
3. Turn ignition ON (do not start the engine).
4. Fully release the pedal.
5. The throttle valve will automatically sweep to find its limits.
6. Wait 5 seconds, verify operation, then disconnect the CAL wire.

IDLE control

The IDLE 0–5V input can control engine idle speed:

• 5V = lowest idle
• 0V (ground) = highest idle
  This can be connected to a standalone ECU’s PWM idle output for smooth idle management.

Antilag mode

When enabled, this feature keeps the throttle valve open and triggers an external launch control or rev limiter when the pedal is released.

Setup:

1. Connect the Mode wire to ground.
2. Connect the Antilag wire to ground to activate.

When engaged, the throttle will open to a preset position, and the Launch OUT pin will output a ground signal. Configuration is done through the user manual.

CAN Bus Connection (MS3 ECU)

The DBW Controller’s CAN connection works better when connected to an MS3 ECU (firmware 1.5.2 or newer). Simply connect the CANH and CANL wires using two twisted together wires.

The DBW Controller can also operate independently without CAN integration.

TunerStudio settings for the DBW Throttle Controller:

You can adjust minimum and maximum values under Throttle Test Mode in the CAN Bus menu for optimal response.

Compatibility

Tested and proven to work great with:

• VAG 6-pin throttle bodies (1.8T and VR6)
• BMW electronic throttle valves
• Subaru Impreza
• Lexus IS200
• Mercedes V8 throttle bodies

Compatible with most other drive-by-wire throttles using standard 6-pin configurations.

Safety

The DBW Throttle Controller includes multiple safety systems to ensure fail-safe operation:

• Continuous monitoring of dual throttle and pedal sensors
• Automatic shutdown if sensor signals differ beyond limits
• Error logging for sensor faults or throttle overrun
• Power-on diagnostics for short circuits, open circuits, and MOSFET faults
• Antilag mode requires both Mode and Antilag wires grounded to prevent accidental activation

When both pedal sensors are connected, the system is guaranteed not to open the throttle without user input — verified through full FMEA analysis.

Technical Specifications

• Input: 12V (ignition-switched)
• Idle Input: 0–5V analog
• CAN Interface: Yes
• Safety: Dual-sensor redundancy, fault detection
• ECU Compatibility: All standalone ECUs
• Modes: Normal / Antilag
• Calibration: Manual (CAL wire)

Benefits Recap

• Precise control over electronic throttles
• Fast, responsive operation for high-performance builds
• Built-in safety monitoring
• Fully configurable idle and antilag control
• CAN bus ready and standalone capable

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Downloads

  DBW Throttle Controller PDF Manual

  Software