Smart and Dumb Coils
Dumb coils are simply just transformers and require an external igniter to trigger them. These igniters usually make use of a IGBT, or more simply, an electrically controlled switch.
Smart coils are transformers with the igniter included, meaning there is no need for an external igniter or ignition module. The IGBT is built in.
YOU CANNOT IDENTIFY IF A COIL IS SMART OR DUMB BY THE NUMBER OF PINS IT HAS
Older vehicles will more commonly have a separate ignition module, another name for an "igniter." Strictly speaking of COP or "Coil on plug" applications, examples of this are later 2JZ-powered toyota cars, RB26-powered cars, and earlier 1.8T-powered VAG cars. BMW always has and still uses dumb coils, but instead of having a separate external module for controlling the ignition coils, the IGBTs are internal to the engine computers. Depending on the FOME-powered ECU you have, you may have IGBTs included for controlling dumb coils. Make sure to check documentation for your particular ECU.
Here are some examples of each:
| Dumb | Smart |
|---|---|
| B58 | R8 |
| GM LS coils | R35 GTR |
| 996/997 | K20/K24 |