Synapse PDM

Synapse PDM is a 14-channel, open-source automotive Power Distribution Module designed for custom vehicles, motorsport, and advanced electrical systems. Developed and validated over multiple hardware iterations, it combines configurable power distribution with integrated vehicle monitoring, data logging, CAN and 4G/GPS telemetry.

Every Synapse PDM includes 12 months of telemetry service, giving you remote access to your vehicle data through the Mann Electronics telemetry portal. The PDM is configured and managed using Cortex, providing an intuitive way to set up and monitor your system without needing specialist tools.

See the wiki for full documentation and hardware details.

Why Choose Synapse PDM

• Flexible and Configurable: Each input and output is fully programmable to suit a wide range of applications, from replacing conventional automotive fuse and relay systems to managing complex distributed electrical architectures. Multiple Synapse PDM units can be deployed on the same CAN network for scalable, modular control, with configuration handled through the Cortex software.
• Open-Source & Community-Driven: Synapse PDM is fully open-source and designed to work out of the box, while still giving advanced users complete access to the firmware and hardware if they wish to customise or extend the platform. Community feedback and ongoing development continue to shape new features and improvements.
• Integrated Telemetry: Built-in 4G/GPS connectivity provides remote access to vehicle data through the Mann Electronics telemetry service. Every new Synapse PDM includes 12 months of telemetry service, allowing you to monitor your vehicle and review historical data through the online portal. The PDM uses a customer-provided SIM card and mobile data plan for 4G connectivity. This allows you to choose the mobile network and data plan that best suits your vehicle and location. The SIM card and mobile data costs are not included.
• Powerful Integration: Built-in CAN, data logging, 9-DOF IMU, environmental sensing, and 4G/GPS connectivity make Synapse PDM a central hub for vehicle monitoring, control, and telemetry.
• Proven Hardware, Polished Software: Synapse PDM has evolved through multiple hardware and firmware iterations into a mature and capable vehicle control platform. The Cortex application provides a modern, intuitive interface for configuration, monitoring, and management, making the system accessible to everyone from vehicle enthusiasts to professional builders and engineers. Ongoing development continues to add features and refine the platform.
• Compact, Efficient Design: Low sleep current (~1mA) and configurable channel grouping provide reliable operation and intelligent power management without unnecessary energy consumption.
• Easy to Configure with Cortex: The Synapse PDM is configured and managed through Cortex, the dedicated Mann Electronics software. Designed to be straightforward to use, Cortex makes configuring outputs, monitoring vehicle data, and managing your PDM accessible without requiring specialist programming knowledge.