Understanding the Definition and Functions of Throttle Position Sensor

For you motor vehicle users with injection type, have you ever heard the term TPS or throttle position sensor? It turns out this part is quite important for you to know, because damage to the TPS can make the motorcycle's acceleration less responsive and slow.

So, what is the actual definition and function of the throttle position sensor? Check out the following review.

Understanding Throttle Position Sensor

TPS or throttle position sensor is a sensor that exists in the EFI system. Broadly speaking, the function of the TPS is to determine the magnitude of the opening angle of the throttle valve.

Where the throttle position sensor uses a variable resistor as the medium, to produce a voltage magnitude that is adjusted according to the size of the opening angle of the throttle valve.

The magnitude of the opening angle of the throttle valve will then be converted by this throttle position sensor into a form of DC voltage. The voltage source is provided by the ECU or engine control unit.

The larger the angle that opens on the throttle valve, the greater the output voltage produced by the TPS.

The change in the amount of voltage generated by the throttle position sensor will be interpreted by the ECU system as the magnitude of the opening angle of the throttle valve that exists in the throttle body.

Function of Throttle Position Sensor

If you already know the general function of the TPS, you should also know the detailed functions of this part.

1. Knowing the Engine Mode and Position

Because the ECU uses the TPS or throttle position sensor to know the engine mode and position, in order to choose the right time for the ignition process and injection timing.

2. Turning Off the AC Switch

When the throttle valve is fully open, the throttle position sensor will automatically turn off the AC switch to control emissions. This indicates the acceleration state of the vehicle or full load, so the ECU can use this indicator to turn off the AC.

3. Checking Air and Fuel

Fuel mixture correction, in this case air and fuel ratio, is performed by the ECU system based on data from various sensors.

4. Checking Power Increase in the Engine

This part also performs fuel cut control where the fuel cut means stopping the supply of fuel. The fuel supply is stopped by deactivating the injectors in all engine cylinders.

When the engine is in a deceleration position, the fuel cut control will only occur. That is when the engine speed exceeds two thousand rpm, and the gas pedal is suddenly released so that the throttle valve will show a fully closed position.

From the understanding and functions of the throttle position sensor, it is clear that this component is very important in the engine.

For most car engines currently on the market, there are at least three types of TPS used. Namely the variable resistor type, the contact point type, and the combination type that combines contact points and variable resistors.

At a glance, the way the throttle position sensor works and its functions may seem complicated to understand. However, if you delve deeper into it, this part will appear much simpler.

Its functions are indeed quite numerous and varied, making its presence very important in your vehicle.