A controlled bench plan turns a complex ECU board into a testable system. Do not jump from a fresh assembly to a running engine. Build evidence in stages and keep each stage repeatable.
Stage 1 – Unpowered inspection
- Inspect PCB revision, population, soldering, connector orientation and harness continuity.
- Check for shorts between power rails and ground.
- Confirm protective components, fuses and load paths match the build record.
Stage 2 – Logic power
- Use a current-limited supply and record voltage/current.
- Flash the STM32 through ST-LINK.
- Confirm boot, clock, debug access and CAN telemetry with all actuators disconnected.
Stage 3 – Trigger and synchronization
- Use a generator or motored signal source.
- Capture the electrical waveform and verify decoded RPM, angle and phase.
- Test missing-tooth, drop-out, noise and re-synchronization cases.
Stage 4 – Outputs
- Prove inactive polarity after boot/reset.
- Use passive/representative loads first.
- Measure timing, duration, thermal behaviour and all-off response.
Stage 5 – Integrated test
Only after passing the earlier stages should an engine-adjacent test begin. Start with a defined abort condition, fire suppression, fuel isolation, a second observer and logging. Review evidence after each change; do not stack firmware, harness and calibration changes in the same test.
Suggested screenshots: a numbered bench setup photo and a validation checklist spreadsheet or log excerpt.