kcpaz

Trying to decide which direction to go with the instrumentation on the Boxster. I think I've settled on Racepak for the dash display (mostly because I like their product and the V-net cable system is awesome), but my question is in regards to data-logging. The IQ3 comes as either a dash display ONLY, or as a display with their data-logging built in. So my question is... does anybody have experience with the Racepak software and analyzing system and is it any good compared to say the Traqmate system. One immediate advantage I see with using the Racepak data-logging system is that the predictive lap timing would automatically be displayed in the same dash display which would eliminate the need for another Traqmate display to serve the same purpose. On the flip side, NASA is using Traqmate for compliance testing so it would be nice to have the system on-board already. Also, it seems like a lot of people are already using Traqmate which means there is potentially more local tech support available compared to the Racepak system, but I could be wrong. It seems like either route is similarly priced once you add everything up.

ProCoach

While the IQ3 dash is an elegant and effective solution, I find MoTeC i2, AiM RaceStudio 2, Racelogic's Circuit Tools software easier to use and Traqmate's Traqview the easiest, bar none.

While Larry Herman and a few others have a good handle in RacePak's RaceLink II, I'm struggling mightily and I reviewed over thirty sessions today between five drivers using
two other systems.

Maybe it's me, but I get many more folks coming from RacePak to other solutions (usually Traqmate and AiM for data, Video VBOX and Race-Keeper for data/video) than vice versa.

The installed base of Traqmate users and the ease of overlay really is a plus, too.

Race Technologies dash solutions are nice, but I've found V7, their interpretation software nearly as cumbersome as RaceLink II.

You wanted opinions. That's mine.

kcpaz

So to summarize, you like the Racepak as a dash, but not their logging software?

ProCoach

Yep.

Veloce Raptor

To add to what Peter said, the Racepak software is extremely capable, and has tremendous depth of capabilities, especially if you use actual vehicle sensors (brake prssure, throttle position, steering angle, etc.) in addition to the GPS and inertial data. It (the software) is somewhat cumbersome to use, however, and is not the most user friendly thing out there. The integration with an excellent dash is a big plus IMO, whereas TraqMate and RaceKeeper (whose software is really easy to use) is not quite there yet in the dash department. So I guess you have to decide whether you are willing to train yourself on the software (if I can use Racepak software, ANYONE can...) in order to have data integrated with a superb dash display.

bobt993

Racepak software is very layered and full of open formatting. I think once learned properly, it is very easy to process. I have been working with Traqmate and AIM recently and find their software more cumbersome. Why? Simple, they each have their own process to follow and it would be no different learning French then Japanese. Which ever program/software you start with will be the one you are most comfortable with.

The IQ3 is a standalone data system with 3 accelerometers on boards for leveling the x/y axis. You have extended sensor inputs in comparison to the G2X (redbox), but not the pro platform of analog channels available on their pro model where the dash only unit is available. The key on Racepak is setup of your car config file. If you set up the config properly and create the relevant math channels you will find it removes a ton useless information. One issue that is unique to Racepak is they are "in house" built in California under one roof. Software and electronics technicians live under one roof so you have good resources. No matter what system you decide on make sure you have support to use it properly otherwise it is a laptimer with a display.

Ritter v4.0

I'm really struggling with the set up but part of it is relearning PC/MS.
Its weird.

J richard

I like the racepak system and software. it was a little cumbersome to figure out the first few times around, but once you "get it" it is really simple and intuitive. the predicitve lap times and the projected fast lap comparisons are interesting for analysis both on and off the track.

The lap comparisions are very cool if you can get a really fast lap or use a predicted fast lap and run real time comparisons. by moving the cursor over the track you can see not only the speed, rpm, accel, braking and lateral G's of both laps, but also from GPS where you were relative to position on the track. Its great for analyzing a particular sector or seeing where you are loosing time.

The automatic sector generation is an easy entre to get you up and going quickly. I find it a very flexible system, you can use it as simply or as complicated as you want. Not so with others.

I'm still figuring out the AIM system, I find the racepak easier, but we will see...

kcpaz

Thanks for weighing in here. It's nice to know there is someone local in NASA that could help me with the system if I need it.

Sean F

i just put the IQ3 in and it takes about 1 track day to figure out the software and then it's very straight forward

rlm328

I would find out what most of the people at the track events are using and go that route. I am using AIM and I am satisfied with it but I am about the only one at the events I go to that uses it. So I am on a solo learning curve, althoguh I do find it fairly easy to use once I got into it.

Larry Herman

This is what Bob and I have found, and also the quick integration of video is why we selected Racepak for our data coaching. I can take the data and video from the car and in under 5 minutes have a sync'd package ready for analysis.

kcpaz

Thank you everyone for your feedback. I ordered the IQ3 WITH logging. Now all I need is for them to release their OBDII interface... I've got a few more months before I'll absolutely need it.

bobt993

They are releasing the OBDII next week. Limited run of a 100 units it appears. We will be providing a bunch for rental initially when we are at the track.

kcpaz

As in they are only going to release 100 total ever, or they are only releasing 100 at first followed by more shortly after?