In CVT vehicle, the engine speed is completely decoupled from the vehicle speed within the range from maximum transmission ratio to minimum transmission ratio. This allows the engine to operate in optimal state(e.g. best fuel economy or maximum power mode.) In this study, the CVT control algorithm for optimal operation of engine is suggested. In order to implement the real time digital control of electro-hydraulic CVT system, a software called CVTCON has been developed. CVTCON also includes the CVT operation module, (2) system test module, (3) system control module and (4) data management module. By using the CVTCON and the electro-hydraulic CVT system, two modes of experiments were carried out: constant throttle opening mode and acceleration mode. From the experimental result, it was found that the algorithm suggested in this study showed optimal operation of the CVT system.