Favorite Lap time/data logger/video setup??

[Cajundaddy]

Hey guys and gals,
In my continuing quest to tune and develop the loose nut behind the steering wheel I have been considering an in car timer/performance logger of some type for instant feedback during continuous lapping track days. In addition to pure seat time I think there is a lot more potential for improved lap times here than by tweaking my motor or suspension at this point. It seems these range a great deal in features and price from about $200-$3000 and beyond. Any you like or ones I should avoid? The ability to do a pit review afterward looks interesting. Compatibility with other track timing systems would also be a plus. Infrared, GPS, AMB, OBDII, accellerometer, it boggles the mind!


Track wish list for 2009: Fontana, Streets, Big Willow, Buttonwillow 13, Laguna Seca.
Driving goals: Weekend warrior about 6 events per year in a mix of Auto X, DE and Time Trials. Looking for an occasional Class win and possible top 20 finish on a good day.
Driving experience: 2 years Auto X/DE with SDR and GPX, PCA-SDR Performance driving school grad, 5 years Moto X /GP racing, 20 years Multihull Yacht Racing, 1 year Kart racing.

I would appreciate your thoughts,
Smilin' Dave
PCA-GPX #129

[kurquhart]

I love my IQ3: http://www.racepak.com/Components/IQ3.php. Several of us in SDR use this system.

[993Panzer]

I love my IQ3: http://www.racepak.com/Components/IQ3.php. Several of us in SDR use this system.

What he said.

[martinreinhardt]

As far as video setup, my favorite which I have been using is the POV.1 http://www.vio-pov.com/. My new ride has the AIM MLX Pro data acquisition system http://www.aimsports.com/products/mxl-pro/index.html with a bunch of sensors which I have yet to test. But, if the car wouldn't have come with the AIM, the IQ3 would have been my first choice also.

[Cajundaddy]

Thanks for the input guys. I had looked at the IQ3 but didn't know anyone who had one. Looks just about right. That video system looks slick also. I appreciate your input.

[Jad]

Martin, your NEW ride????????????????????????

Details please..............

[Jad]

For data acquisitions, the G2X is quick, easy and effective for under $1k, though the manual is TERRIBLE, so ask someone to translate it for the first use or two then it is easy to use and gives LOTS of GPS based data and can easily be moved car to car.

The other system I am familiar with is the AIM system. Much more complicated and around $3k to get a decent system ready to go. You need the GPS module in my opinion and then it is a very good system with tons of expansion options. It can replace your dash completely if desired.

I think they are both excellent tools that provide lots of info, especially if you are willing to share your car to compare lines with others.

[Cajundaddy]

My brother and I share my car often. Our lap times are usually very close but we tend to make time on different sections of track. Some day he might actually buy his own car so a portable system would be useful. Perhaps one day I could compare track data with one of you SDR hot shoes. Learning from others who simply play the game better than I do is always a good thing.

[4est]

+1 on the 'Martin's new ride'...

(doesn't AiM only work for 996-997?)

[martinreinhardt]

It's a lot faster than a 997 GT3 Cup and is made out of carbon fiber.

[Jad]

+1 on the 'Martin's new ride'...

(doesn't AiM only work for 996-997?)

The Aim works for any car, but with a 996-997 it plugs into the DME and gives you a lot of info from the car instead of using (and buying/installing) additional sensors.