RAM 1500 Van V8-5.2L CNG VIN T (1999)
Information Bus: Description and Operation
VEHICLE COMMUNICATION
The Chrysler Collision Detection multiplex system (CCD bus) consists of a twisted pair of wires. These wires run from one module to another.
They receive and deliver coded information between the modules. The information is coded to identify the message as well as the importance of
the message. When there are multiple messages trying to access the CCD bus at one time, the code determines the message that has the higher
priority, and is then allowed to access the bus first.
The two wires of the twisted pair that make up the CCD multiplex system are called "bus + " (bus plus) and "bus - " (bus minus) respectively. Each
wire has a measurable voltage level of roughly 2.5 volts. In order to maintain the 2.5 volts on each line and provide a means of transportation for
the coded messages, there is a voltage divider network located in the module that supplies bus bias or voltage. Along with the module that supplies
bias, some modules provide termination. Bias is the voltage necessary to make the bus operational. At least one point of termination is necessary,
some systems use more than one. Some modules are capable of biasing and terminating the bus by themselves. Termination in the circuitry (a 120
ohm resistor placed across the bus) is required to complete the voltage divider network circuit and also provide some electromagnetic protection
for the bus. Without termination, voltage on the bus goes to approximately 5 volts on one wire and 0 volts on the other wire. In the 1999 Ram
Van, the instrument cluster supplies bus bias and termination and the PCM supplies an additional point of termination.
NOTE: COMMUNICATION OVER THE BUS IS ESSENTIAL TO THE PROPER OPERATION OF THE VEHICLES ON-BOARD
DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMS AND THE DRB. PROBLEMS WITH THE OPERATION OF THE BUS OR DRB MUST BE CORRECTED
BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH DIAGNOSTIC TESTING.IF THERE IS A PROBLEM, REFER TO THE VEHICLE COMMUNICATION.
