Firebird V8-305 5.0L VIN E (1992)
Manifold Air Temperature (MAT) Sensor: Description and Operation
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
The Manifold Air Temperature (MAT) sensor uses a thermistor to control the signal voltage to the ECM. The variable resistor changes its resistance
based on temperature. Low manifold air temperature produces high resistance, 100,000 ohms at -40°C (-40°F), while high temperature causes low
resistance, 70 ohms at 130°C (266°F). The ECM supplies a 5.0 volt signal to the MAT sensor through a resistor in the ECM and monitors the voltage
change. By monitoring the voltage, the ECM calculates the air temperature and uses this data to assist in determining fuel delivery and spark advance.
