System and method for reducing quiescent power draw and machine using same

A method of operating a machine, comprising:

• supplying electrical power from an electrical power source directly to a relay controller, while a plurality of electronic controllers are electrically disconnected from the electrical power source to, at least partially, reduce a quiescent power draw;
• receiving a power requirement indication;
• communicating a first activation command from the relay controller to a first relay in response to the power requirement indication;
• and
• closing the first relay to electrically connect the electrical power source and the plurality of electronic controllers in response to the first activation command.

An electronic control system of a machine, comprising:

• a plurality of electronic controllers electrically connected to an electrical power source along a first electrical circuit through a main power relay and along a second electrical circuit through a low current mode relay;
• and
• a relay controller having a direct electrical connection to the electrical power source along a third electrical circuit and being electrically connected to the electrical power source, along a fourth electrical circuit through an ignition key switch, the relay controller being in communication with the main power relay and the low current mode relay;
• wherein the relay controller is configured to close at least one of the main power relay and the low current mode relay in response to detection of an on position of the ignition key switch or receipt of a wake up signal from a wake up component.