Front electronic module (FEM): Front Electronic Module

The front electronic module is the central control unit in the vehicle electrical system. The front electronic module safeguards functions from the following former control units:

• Footwell module (FRM)
• Car Access System (CAS)
• Junction Box Electronics (JBE)
• Central gateway module (ZGM)

The central gateway module (ZGM) is integrated in the Front Electronic Module (FEM).

The front electronic module is the master control unit for the central locking system and comfort access. All the functions for controlling the comfort access are integrated in the front electronic module. The front electronic module controls among others all the functions in the front section of the vehicle. For example, the front electronic module controls the central locking system for the doors and the fuel filler flap. The front electronic module evaluates the status of the door contacts.

The task of the central gateway module (ZGM) is to connect all bus systems. This combination allows general use of information from the individual bus systems. The central gateway module is able to implement various reports and speeds on other bus systems.

Fig 1: Front Electronic Module Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.