Originally posted by qtiger
1. Depends on your experience. Easy to control, but a large amount of features/options to control.
2. Depends on your application.
3. IMHO, yes, as it does not require chipping and has a faster response rate. I chose the EMS over the Hondata because the price of Hondata + OBDI ECU + conversion harness + EPROM burner is much more than the EMS.
4. A standalone fuel management system is a good idea for any boosted application. Type of FMS depends on your specific needs.
5. Yes, EMS supports staged injection (up to 10 injectors). You could not do this with Hondata.
6. Not unless you want something you can modify on the fly without a laptop.
7. Yes. Most people use a GM boost control solenoid and have at it.
8. Both.
9. No. Most people with the EMS just get a replacement distributor cap along with an external coil.
I'll add my .02 and elaborate a little, although I agree completely with the above.
#3. Automapping. I don't know how precise it gets, but the fact that it does it, significantly reduces the time it takes to get a rough map set to build on. Also support for Lambda sensors. I don't believe Hondata has either.
#6-#7. It does have onboard boost capabilities. The shop I had it installed by had mixed results with it. The AEM board seems to be the same way. Mostly mediocre reviews. I ended up getting the AVC-R in addition to the EMS. I like really like gadgets though, and the AVC-R is really powerful and flexible when you get into the guts of it. Is it necessary? No... but its pretty cool. :thumbup:
#8. Just to elaborate on Qtigers point, you replace the ECM in the kickpanel, plug your laptop (or desktop if its semi-portable and has a long serial cable) into the serial port of the unit and you're in. You plug the laptop in, turn on the software and log data or show your engine vitals. Really painless.:thumbup: