Definition

Engine Control Unit (ECU) is synonymous with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC). Please see the FADEC article for a more complete description.

Description

An ECU or a FADEC receives data from engine system and air data sensors to control functions such as:

• Fuel metering
• Bleed valve control
• Engine RPM limits
• Ignition for engine start and in-flight restart
• Turbine temperature limits

An ECU or FADEC typically offers protection for malfunctions such as:

• Hot start
• Hung start
• No light-off
• Engine overspeed