They are pretty much essential if you want to run anything more than stock boost. Manual boost controllers are cheaper but you have less control. On an electronic you have two settings to play with. 'Duty' and 'Gain'. The duty is how much boost and the gain determines how strong that boost comes on. When setting one up its best to start low, ideally at wastegate pressure then slowly rise the duty up. Just be weary with the cold weather coming it so you don't over boost. These turbo cars love the chilly air