PWM Signal (Pulse-width Modulation)
PWM is a control signal that switches power on and off rapidly, varying the on-time to control speed or position.
What is PWM Signal (Pulse-width Modulation)?
It drives fans, pumps, solenoids and lights. The percentage on-time is the duty cycle. It is efficient because the switch is either fully on or off. Some sensors also send their reading as a PWM signal instead of a varying voltage. Frequency and duty cycle are both part of the specification.
How it works
Varying the duty cycle changes the average power delivered.
Why it matters for your car
A multimeter shows only an average; an oscilloscope shows the real signal. Faults can be in the driver or the load.
Other terms
- Backprobing
- Chrome Plating
- Crown Wheel And Pinion (Ring And Pinion)
- Eco-driving
- Emergency Brake Signal (Flashing Brake Lights)
- Flat-Plane Crankshaft
- Fuel Level Sensor
- Horn
- M+S Marking (Mud And Snow)
- Paint Sealant
- Rear-View Mirror (Interior Mirror)
- Reversing Camera
- Roll Cage
- Side Window
- Test Drive
- Tie Rod End
- Trade-in (Part Exchange)
- Tyre Noise (Rolling Noise)
- Waterless Wash
- Wiper Motor