BMW K 1300 GT - Manual (Page 32)

BMW
Media
Information
10/2008
Page 32
Large range of functions thanks to the Single-Wire System.
In 2004 BMW Motorrad introduced a brand-new, highly advanced system
serving to network electrical and electronic components in the motorcycle
referred to as the Single-Wire System fi rst in the R 1200 GS and subsequently
in the K 1200 S.
This innovative on-board networking concept is now also featured in the new
K 1300 S and, using electronic and CAN-bus technology (CAN = Controller
Area Network), offers a much wider range of functions than conventional
on-board networks, together with much simpler and more straightforward
wiring requirements.
In this network information is transmitted only through one signal path
(the single wire). And to keep any interference to an absolute minimum, the
path itself is set up as a double-wire system.
The big advantages of this intelligent combination of electrics and electronics
are the weight saved on the wiring harness and various components, the
high standard of robustness and far-reaching diagnostic capacities. Special
electronic equipment may be easily integrated into the network, and in
many cases a simple update is all that is required to expand the system.
The basic principle is that all control units interact with one another via one
single, joint signal path forming one complete network followed by all signals
regardless of their subsequent allocation. This network then provides all
information for all affi liated components.
The signals are allocated to their specifi c purposes at junction points and
then go specifi cally to the appropriate electronic consumers in the various
control units. There the information received is processed and subsequently
the functions required are activated in the consuming unit.
With this system there is no need to elaborately wire up each function with its
own wire. This clearly reduces the number of potential defi ciencies inevitably
occurring in a conventional on-board network due to the many wires and plug
connections – clearly an important factor in the interest of superior reliability.
Communication network and central diagnosis.
All control units form one joint communication network and are able to
exchange data among themselves. This allows simple and comprehensive
diagnosis of the overall system from one central point. The electronic “brain”