Abstract: A circuit for inputting and processing a signal from a speed sensor element, includes a comparator having first and second input terminals and first and second input circuits connected to receive the signal. The first input circuit is connected to a first input terminal of said comparator, and the second input circuit is connected to a reference voltage and to the second input terminal of said comparator. A switchable voltage divider circuit interruptibly connecting a voltage divider circuit for reducing an amplitude of the signal on said first input circuit; and a microprocessor is connected to receive and process an output of the comparator and to determine a speed value based thereon. The microprocessor controls switchable voltage divider based on the magnitude of determined vehicle speed.

Abstract: In order to control electromechanically activated charge cycle valves, a circuit is provided in which placement control elements actuate an output stage for the electromechanically activated charge cycle valves and control a gentle placement of the charge cycle valves in a respective end position. For the purpose of communication with the operational control unit of the internal combustion engine, a digital communications computer is provided which provides the placement control element with timing signals. As a result, the placement control elements are freed of communications functions and can be dedicated to performing the placement control in real time.

Abstract: In order to control electromechanically activated charge cycle valves, a circuit is provided in which placement control elements actuate an output stage for the electromechanically activated charge cycle valves and control a gentle placement of the charge cycle valves in a respective end position. For the purpose of communication with the operational control unit of the internal combustion engine, a digital communications computer is provided which provides the placement control element with timing signals. As a result, the placement control elements are freed of communications functions and can be dedicated to performing the placement control in real time.

Abstract: In a method for checking the function of the electrical heater of a lambda probe in the exhaust line of an internal combustion engine, the electrical resistance of the heater is measured. Measurement of the electrical resistance of the heater is performed using a measuring current that is smaller than the heater current. During the measurement, the heater current switched off. The electrical resistance of the heater is preferably connected to a positive voltage to supply the (heating or measuring) current.

Abstract: An electronic control unit for steering the back wheels of a road vehicle. The unit has a steering device that controls the steering angle of the back wheels in response to an emergency steering signal, has sensors for at least steering angle, traveling speed and degree of steering wheel lock, and has a calculating unit having two computers. Control signals derived from sensor signals are supplied to each of the computers. Each of the computers independently evaluates the control signals and independently outputs an emergency steering signal to the steering device in an emergency.