here are some pics of the traqmate GPS system installed in the track car:

display unit


main GPS unit location


GPS sensor placement

 

Yep, GPS data acquisition systems are definitely the wave of the future. You'll be amazed at the amount of reliable data that can be pulled up and analyzed (providing the software and GPS antenna hardware are up to the task). Far better than those accelerometer-based gadgets.

We've been using a Racepak unit with excellent results. Especially considering we're using it on a motorcycle, which has the added complication of leaning into the corners (automobiles stay relatively flat while cornering).

 

Nice....Stupid question....What exactly does this do...does it work similar to a gtech meter but just better and more accurate?

 

"G-Tech"? Those gadgets don't even come anywhere near close to a proper GPS data acquisition system.

Because GPS positioning allows you to track the exact position of an object (including altitude) down to several feet depending on the antenna hardware/software-- and in real time if desired-- you can reliably track exact speeds at any time on the track, lap times (without the need for a beacon), split times (from anywhere to anywhere on the track), g-forces in every aspect of every corner, including acceleration, lateral, and deceleration, and even the cornering lines you took on a particular lap.

 

Sounds handy, but how much did it cost you?? Wonder if you had 2 antennas if you could measure drift angle = ) lol I guess the two feet of + or - would screw you over on that.

 

A yaw sensor would be better for that. Regardless, can't see how it would matter or help with drifting, since that "sport" is judged on style more than anything else...

 

Yeah. I use what is essentially a smarter G-Tech with more in depth software, but it has it's own limitations. Once you go to GPS you're in a whole 'nother league. I still hope to upgrade to a DL-1 and hardwire in some additional sensors in the near future.

 

I installed it for 3 main reasons:

1) I have gotten to the point where gps data information can help me go faster so I want to use the data to learn where I am giving up time and clean up some bad driving habbits.

2) I want the data to overlay on the videos I make of my track events.

3) ITS MAD COOL YO!!!


the 3rd reason is obvisouly the most important :-)


(a side benefit is lap times without having to place a beacon trackside)

 

I just saw a feature story on the Traqmate on "Sports Car Revolution."
That thing is friggin amazing. You can download your track runs and compare them with other drivers runs who have the same gadget. Definately a worthwhile investment for racing.

 

The April issue of Sportscar had a feature article on data acquistion systems:

MaxQData
Racepak G2X
DL-1, DL-2
Traqmate
G-Tech Pro RR

I'd be certain to add the analog inputs to the Traqmate so you can add throttle percentage, steering angle and tach at minimum.

 

Damian,

Your car is simply bad ***.

 

Haha, well said.

 

:-) thanks.

 

D-man, It's not the car, you're badass. You took my son for 7 laps at autobahn last year and he's been talkin about it ever since. You are the man....

 

hey ill be at autobahn again for the one lap of maerica and for the nasa, so ill see you guys there again :-)