Operation Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Titan. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

BCM activates transistors of output terminals (OUTPUT 1-5) periodically, and allows current to flow in turn.
If any (1 or more) switches are turned ON, the circuit of output terminals (OUTPUT 1-5) and input terminals (INPUT 1-5) becomes active.
At this time, transistors of output terminals (OUTPUT 1-5) are activated to allow current to flow. When voltage of the input terminal (INPUT 1-5) corresponding to that switch changes, the interface in the BCM detects a voltage change, and the BCM determines that the switch is ON.

Fig 1: Combination Switch Reading Function (Lighting Switch First Position)

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.