Introduction

Alpha-N is a tuning solution utilizing the TPS (throttle position sensor) and vehicle RPM. This is not a good tuning solution for turbocharged vehicles, and is also a poor solution, but to a lesser degree, for supercharged vehicles.

Limitations

Alpha-N is a very limited method of tuning. Utilizing an intake metering device will provide more reliable, and often higher engine output. When configuring Alpha-N, engine load is estimated based on throttle position and engine speed (RPM). As an example of how the ECU will read this, 4,000 RPM with 75% throttle will always be handled as 250 kg/hr regardless of actual intake flow rate (which could be drastically different). This means you will often have incorrect fueling and ignition timing.

When to use

Alpha-N is really only recommended for track or show vehicles. For track vehicles, it's recommended to be tuned to each track you visit.

As most track vehicles spend much of their time in high-throttle, high-RPM situations, it is possible to provide a more specific engine load estimation.