Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for use in an ECU. In one embodiment, the apparatus include a first microcontroller coupled to a first IC. The first IC is configured to receive and process sensor signals from respective sensors in an automobile. The first IC is configured to generate first signals in response to processing the sensor signals. The first microcontroller is configured to receive and process one or more of the first signals in accordance with instructions stored in memory of the first microcontroller. The first microcontroller is configured to generate a control signal for controlling a component, such as a spark plug, of the automobile in response to the first microcontroller processing the one or more of the first signals. The first IC is also configured to generate another control signal for controlling another component of the automobile in response to processing the sensor signals.