Has anyone ever figured out what the HKS Twin Power does?

I know that it connects to the coil harness via splices that don't interupt the original current path.
Is it just a set of capacitors that are triggered when voltage drops to prolong the spark?
I searched on this and didn't find anythig specific to explain the theory of operation on this.
I know that the Crane HI-6 is inserted between the igniter and the leading coil with wires in and out of the unit. I was suprised when I looked at the instalation for the twin power and it indicated that it was just spliced into the existing harness.

 

it has a capacitor so that you get consistant voltage to your coils

i think it has a step up transformer too

 

This is straight from the hks website. I had the chance to install it, drive my car wot from 2nd to 3rd, then uninstalled it and did the same. With it installed, low rpm's "felt" a little crisper, but more notably the upper rpms felt more powerful. I was told taht once stock boost levels are exceeded, the stock ignition is not strong enough to ignite the fuel during high rpm, wot runs. I'm thoroughly convinced about the hks tp, and now have on....

Here is the description on it:


The Twin Power ignition amplifier incorporates both the CDI and transistor method ignition to provide optimum spark duration and maximum voltage output, resulting in crisper throttle response and a smoother engine powerband. The CDI method, capacity discharge ignition, provides maximum voltage by transferring all stored energy in the capacitor to the ignition coil so that the ignition current can buildup quickly, thus making the Twin Power very effective in the higher revs where a normal spark would tend to diminish. This strong rapid spark prevents the high rpm ignition miss that reduces peak power. The transistorized method generates high voltage by using transistors to cut off current to the coil, thus allowing for a long energy discharge. This longer spark duration allows the Twin Power to improve lower RPM throttle response and torque. The combination of the CDI and the transistor method incorporates two distinct systems into one high performance unit, hence the designation of Twin Power. The Twin Power produces a spark output that is typically 1.5-2.5 stronger than of the stock ignition system and consumes about 35% less power input than other ignition amplifiers. Each compact and attractive Twin power unit is constructed of durable anodized aluminum and sealed to prevent corrosion from moisture. General wiring harnesses are included in each unit to aid in installation and mounting. Vehicle Specific wiring harnesses are also available for certain models to further aid in installations that require intricate integration.(CARB E.O. # D-186-22)

Dimensions: All Twin Power Units, except for DLI II, are 91mm (L) x 80mm (W) x 34.5mm (H) and weighs Approximately 430g (~15.2oz)

 

Thanks for the feed back.
Part of the HKS explanation that "by using transistors to cut off current to the coil, thus allowing for a long energy discharge." is what is confusing me. Since the unit is spliced into the coil harness and does not break the current flow from the igniter to the coil I don't see how this is possible. I'm not an EE and this all may be beyond me but, I can see how it can increase the voltage and lenghten the duration of the current to the coil with caps and some voltage controlled switches but I don't see how it can cut off current to the coils. Does it short out the signal to ground?

 

I have one and love it. No problems yet. It cleared up my high end break up. I was torn between the HKS and the AEM. I am really glad I went with the HKS after reading this

https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generation-specific-1993-2002-16/warning-aem-ignitions-334500/

 

have any of you tried the turboxs one? they are selling it at rx7store, for a few hundred less than the hks, and i was wondering if it did just as good a job as the hks

 

bump - Any theroy of operation discussion would be helpful.

 

Not really sure why you're so concerned with this.

A transistor can be either a switch, an amplifier/resistor, or even both. "Switch" means that it can cut off the flow of current.

 

I am curious how it works since it is is connected to the ignition differently than I would have expected. I am not doubting that it "affects" the coils but would be happier if I had some idea how it is affecting the circuit. Based on the way that it connects I suspect that it is not much more than a set of caps to stabilize the current to the coils but the HKS marketing lit indicates that it does more.

How can a transistor cut off the flow of current if it is not inserted into the circuit as a switch? The HKS twin power (rotary version) has five wires. A ground and the four wires that are spliced directly to the existing coil harness. The circut between the igniter and the coils is not broken by these connections the HKS unit "piggy backs" off the existing wires.

 

It does most likely short the current path to ground with the transistors while the capacitors build up a charge, thus doesn't need to be installed in-line with the ignition circuit.