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1. To allow the user to return the ECU to stock programming. By using a socket method, the user can easily swap between the GIAC performance chip module and a special stock chip module (a $50 option). Swapping is easy and requires removing and opening the ECU, unplugging the GIAC chip module, and then plugging in the stock chip module. This has a number of benefits:
a. Dealership / Warranty issues. A majority of dealerships are wary of performance products. By installing a "stock chip module" your vehicle is electronically indistinguishable from a stock vehicle.
(Dealerships do not commonly open the ECU, but it is possible to see the modifications within the ECU.)
b. Many chip tuners "block" scan tools from overwriting their performance code. GIAC feels it makes more sense to allow the user to return the ECU to stock programming as disabling the overwrite capability is an immediate notice to the dealership that the ECU has been modified.
Also, in the instance of a dealership upgrading your stock programming, your stock programming will be upgraded to the latest factory version.
2. Ease in upgrading the performance programming.
As with most any good software, there are periodic software revisions. Without a socketed ECU, the user would need to send the entire ECU back to us for reprogramming. With a socket, however, the user can swap in their stock chip module and send in the performance chip for upgrade. No downtime for the vehicle and a convenient upgrade process!
3. To protect GIAC programming from competitors and hackers.
The GIAC socket used with GIACware Performance Programming contains proprietary encryption hardware. This encryption is in place to protect the many advances in GIAC programming. Protection of this investment means that GIAC is able to continue to offer cutting-edge upgrades and performance programming.
Below are a few photos of the socket and how it is installed in the ECU:
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