The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) serves as the primary
display unit for systems that require display functions. The IPC is capable
of displaying system information and driver warning/status messages by using
three different technologies:
• | Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) lighting |
Located on the IPC is a 20-character vacuum florescent display
referred to as the Driver Information Center (DIC). The DIC is used to display
driver selectable information and warning/status messages. The DIC switches
are located on the IPC and can be used to access any of the modes listed.
For example, oil pressure can be displayed by pressing the GAGE button, and
personalized option can be displayed by pressing the OPTIONS button. The following
information can be assessed through the IPC display by selecting the following
DIC switches:
- | Transmission temperature (Auto trans only) |
- | Universal Theft Deterrent (UTD) functions |
- | Lock functions (passive and auto) |
- | Blank display (fob and tire training mode) |
- | Reset IPC messages and displays |
- | Remote Function Actuation (RFA) programming |
- | Change personalized options |
The IPC is also responsible for indicator illumination and chime functions.
Some indicators are directly controlled by the IPC and others are controlled
by a dedicated circuit to the IPC. The IPC controlled indicators are illuminated
when a message is received on the serial data line to perform this function.
Indicators that are illuminated by a dedicated wire to the IPC are controlled
directly by other systems which provide all control functions. The IPC controls
all chime functions and is able to determine what indicator is associated
with a chime. The chime is integrated within the IPC and is not serviced separately.
IPC System Functions
The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) is capable of preforming the following
functions:
- Gage display
- Indicator control
- Ambient light sensor processing
- Chime functions
- Dimming control level
- Oil temperature processing
- Switch illumination
- Warning/Status message display
- Driver Information Center (DIC) functions
Wake-Up/Asleep States
Wake-Ups are signals that will turn the IPC ON and cause it to begin
active control and/or monitoring. The IPC is asleep when it has stopped control
or monitoring and has become idle again. The IPC has the ability to detect
wake-up inputs when in the sleep state. Wake-ups input monitoring is needed
to allow the IPC determine when to wake-up and begin active monitoring and
control of vehicle functions. The IPC will enter a wake-up state under any
of the following conditions:
• | Any activity on the serial data line |
• | Power mode message received from the Body Control Module (BCM) |
• | Battery was disconnected then reconnected |
The IPC has a low power or sleep state. This state is intended to reduce
parasitic load during a period when no control functions are needed. The
IPC will enter a sleep state when all the following conditions are met:
• | No Activity on the serial data line for approximately 10 seconds. |
• | Ignition switch is in the OFF position |
• | Power mode message was not received from the BCM |
• | SECURITY indicator is OFF |
If all these conditions are met the IPC will enter a low power or sleep
condition. However, the IPC will still be able to monitor wake-up inputs
and as well as any activity on the serial data line to determine when to enter
a wake-up state.