Test Day: Test day with Tanaka Racing at Lake Elsinore, CA

We had a successful test session over the weekend in beautiful California weather! Here we have some test data of some top speed runs of the day at Lake Elsinore, CA. Conditions were fair, slight wind and some small choppy waves the majority of the lake.

We went along with Tanaka Racing to get accurate GPS-based maximum speed readings for their stock-engine Kawasaki Ultra-260X. This older ski does not come equipped with a GPS speedometer like some newer watercraft, so we installed our DigSpice GPS receiver into a small waterproof bag and went for a few runs.

We've come out to test the ski running a custom water-air intercooler with TiAL blow-off valve setup by MKS Engineering, that replaced the leaky stock intercooler and blow-off valve setup.

Custom drop-in air-water heat-exchanger w/ stock mounting

TiAL BOV replaces the leaky OEM BOV/wastegate setup

Below we see several runs with the fastest recorded speeds highlighted. For this session we were testing only for acceleration and max speed, so the lap time is not our focus this time around. The color in the data name refers to the spring color used during that test run.

Use DigSpice to log accurate changes to time, speed, cornering, etc to optimize settings on your vehicle

In the second part of the test, we did some basic idle to 45mph sprints (5-45mph), recording the difference in acceleration between the different spring rates. Below we see a screenshot of one of the acceleration/top speed runs. Breaking down the data into sectors allows us to easily see the elapsed time from 5-45mph. Unfortunately choppy water conditions put a damper on acceleration and top speed, even though the ski was well capable of pulling 1G+ in flat sections.

Acceleration data: we can see here that the ski loses speed after every small wave... despite this, the ski managed 4-4.5 sec on average from 5-45mph in choppy conditions.

Below are some other screenshots of the runs on the lake, and the speeds at various points during those runs. There is no course for this data, as it was a free test session, however we will have some data for you in the next session when we data-log Tanaka Racing's heat next week at Lake Perris! We will show how DigSpice GPS Data-Logger can help you improve your times, even when the circuit has no walls and no physical "track" to speak of in world of PWC and boat racing.

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How-To: Vehicle tests and 0-60 times in DigSpice Driving Analysis Software (also 0-100, 0-100-0, etc)

0-60, 0-100, 40-0, 60,0, 0-100-0, 60-80... What are we hinting at here? Many motoring enthusiasts will probably recognize these numbers as common testing benchmarks for all sorts of vehicles during acceleration and braking tests, usually on a flat straight line.

Something as simple as a 0-60 (MPH) sprint can be calculated on many GPS-based devices today, but the same method can be applied to testing a wide range of data within DigSpice's Driving Analysis Software. With the DigSpice II GPS Logger and the Driving Analysis Software, you will be able to extract all sorts of data, such as sprints (ex. 0-60), braking (60-0), slalom, top speed, and more.

While many lap timers or applications will require you to use certain modes to record your acceleration times, this same data can be extracted from the Driving Analysis Software at any time during playback, without having to worry about using predetermined routes, stopwatches, settings, etc.

How does this work? Simply record you data as you would with any run with the DigSpice II GPS Data-Logger. You will save your raw data as you normally would, but take note of which session you wanted to extract your acceleration data from if you have a mix of lap times and acceleration tests mixed within your data.

Basic steps:

1) Make sure to place the DigSpiceII GPS receiver in clear view of the sky. Best results when placed in the upper front windshield (unobstructed), or affixed to the outside on the top of the vehicle using the included enclosed outdoor case or gaffer's tape (or similar) as shown:

Click to enlarge

It is highly recommended to set the GPS receiver to 10Hz within the Driving Analysis Software to ensure accurate data recording within 100 ms. Also recommended to set recording trigger speed to the minimum to record all movements


2) When first extracting your GPS raw data from the DigSpice II unit, manually set your regions in which you wish to record your acceleration or braking times. Since we have recorded data in a straight line, we have set up Start/Finish sections as shown below (similarly, this can also be done using standard circuit control line data using just sectors instead with a start/finish line).

Click to enlarge

For raw data sets containing multiple overlapping or indistinguishable lines, it will help to check the box labeled "Show stop position" to help identify where runs start and stop.


2) In the next screen you will see your data presented in both mapped location and as a graph/chart above. Since we are looking to examine acceleration times, we want to jump to the first section of the data right on the graph where we can see the vehicle accelerating from a stop. Since we are determining 0-60MPH times, we want to set the first sector right where the GPS logger registers movement at the beginning of the run. Set the second sector where you wish to record the elapsed time (in this case, at 60MPH). Once a set of sectors has been placed, times will automatically be displayed on the same color line at the bottom of the screen (as outlined).

Click to enlarge

Again, besides target speed, sectors can also be set based on your own preference, such as how long it took reach 1/4 mile, how far a vehicle traveled in a set time limit, or what was the maximum speed in the given time/distance.


3) For multiple sets of data, you can set up additional sector points to compare consecutive runs, or a different test entirely (in this case the data shows 3 back to back 0-60 sprints on the same straight).

Click to enlarge

And that's it! We hope you find this how-to useful. DigSpice Driving Analysis software allows a quick and easy way to compare set of data and to save those sections for easy access for later use.

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Circuit Map: Streets of Willow (CA)

We are proud to announce a new addition to the DigSpice circuit map library, Streets of Willow (Rosamond, CA, USA). Streets of Willow will be the among the first of many circuit maps we will add to the growing collection of circuit maps collected worldwide!

View a sampling below of Mr. B.Lee's fastest laps in his Honda S2000 shown on the DigSpice Driving Analysis Software (click to view enlarged screenshot)

4 lap sampling of the quickest laps (click to enlarge)

In the screenshot, at a glance you can see in realtime:

• Elapsed distance and lap times (tab can be flipped to show elapsed times instead)
• course location, driving lines, and direction indicated by arrows
• speed in relation to time and location on map (can be shown in KPH or MPH)
• lateral and acceleration/braking G-forces
• corner radius (shown as a sliding arrow on the y-axis of the G-meter)
• altitude (also plotted as a grey line on the same chart as the elapsed time/distance and speed)
• acceleration and braking points denoted by solid and dashed lines
• review data in slowmotion (1/2 speed or manually), and up to 8x

In addition, you can click anywhere and change the sizes of the individual panels to focus only on areas you want to see. You may also sync video footage taken at the same time to have a visual reference to the data on the screen. Most video formats and raw formats are supported (how to on video syncing to be featured shortly)

All data can be saved locally onto your PC's hard drive (or any flash drive) for keeping a personal log, or to share with anybody else who uses DigSpice! You can also save sets of data or export in excel/csv for use elsewhere. 

For data that do not have circuit maps (or small events, hillclimb events, rallies, etc), you can upload your data right onto Google Earth and view the same data right on a satellite image of the course you ran! Please note, prior installation of Google Earth required for uploading feature to work, and can be downloaded for free from earth.google.com.

View your data on Google Earth in a single click, regardless of where you recorded your data!

GPS data recorded on this sample was at 5Hz in the normal setting (5 times per second or 0.200sec intervals). Even at 5Hz, the data is VERY accurate  as can be seen in the data uploaded to Google Earth. This is due to DigSpice's complex calculations based solely on GPS location and heading.

Furthermore, DigSpice II can even be set to 10Hz (true 100 millisec GPS logging) for high-resolution data logging for high-speed vehicles and very technical courses. DigSpiceII GPS Datalogger can be utilized by both beginners and professionals alike!

Be sure to follow us on our facebook/twitter/blog to see what track we add next!

Dealer Inquiries are Welcome!


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Sneak Peek: Window Suction Mount for DigSpice

DigSpice Windshield Suction Mount Kit features an adjustable mounting plate for limitless mounting positions

DigSpice II shown mounted with the suction cup mount (DigSpice II GPS shown not included with mount)

Each DigSpice II GPS logger comes with double-sided Velcro tabs and a mounting case, however some of you may not want to place Velcro or other adhesives on your dashboard. Although the dashboard is the most common and convenient place to mount aftermarket devices, it is also one of the hottest areas inside the vehicle cabin on a hot sunny day. Keep your DigSpice out of harms way and out of your line of sight with the compact window suction mount kit.

Unlike large bulky universal mounts, this suction mount is made specifically for the ultra-compact DigSpice II unit. While minimizing weight and clutter, it also allows free range of mounting options into any vehicle with a glass surface. Place the Velcro tab included with your DigSpice II onto the mounting pad, and enjoy limitless mounting locations and positions for optimum GPS signal and out of harms way.

Change vehicles or want to take the GPS logger with you? Simply undo the suction lock and uninstall in seconds. Since DigSpice II is non-directional, the mount can be adjusted to allow quick access to the USB port for downloading data between sessions, or to keep the DigSpice II charged during long recording events!

Includes:
1x Suction mount base and GPS mounting plate
2x Velcro tabs w/ adhesive backing

Specs:
Suction cup dia. - 3" (locking type)
Overall height - 2"
Overall length - 4.5" (cup edge to mounting plate edge)

Pricing: $18.50
Available: ETA Jan 14, 2013

Suction mount kit will be available on our store at www.DigSpice.com in the coming week! Stay tuned!


Dealer Inquiries are Welcome!

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Introduction to DigSpice

A quick introduction to the DigSpice - "DigSpice II GPS Data-Logger"

What is DigSpice?

DigSpice II is an ultra-compact GPS-based data logging device with detailed driving analysis software (included). The compact GPS receiver and recorder automatically logs GPS data which can then be saved and viewed on a PC. Critical data such as elapsed/lap times and speeds are recorded automatically with minimal set up and ease of use. Since it is solely GPS-based, DigSpice can be used literally anywhere that can receive a GPS satellite signal. Elapsed time, time of recording, and date are automatically synced via GPS for accurate and consistent times, and the unit itself is already RTR (ready-to-run) out of the box after initial charge.

Actual DigSpice II GPS unit is about the size of a box of matches

How does DigSpice work?

Rather than relying on bulky GPS tracking devices with built in accelerometers (G-meters), the DigSpice II GPS Data Logger uses complex algorithms based on GPS coordinates on 3 axis to determine speeds, turn/corner radius, cornering G (lateral and accel/brake), altitiude, etc.. Whether on a bicycle or on a LMP2 prototype racecar reaching in excess of 300kph, DigSpice II offers accurate and invaluable information for reviewing after being recorded. 

Unlike sensor-based logging devices... bumps in the road, differences in barometric pressure (for altitude), vehicle direction, and other variables don't affect the accuracy of the data collected on the DigSpice II GPS data logger. With true 10Hz (100 millisecond recording frequency) GPS satellite data, DigSpice is able to offer precise data acquisition to within 3 meter (<10 ft) of accuracy.

Screenshot of the data playback feature of the DigSpice - Driving Analysis Software

Who can benefit from using DigSpice?

Beginner, grassroots, or professional racers at any level looking to improve on their line and lap times can benefit from collecting track data from any event. Whether comparing lap times for fun for personal use, with friends at a local track day, or detailed head to head comparison of driving data with that of other professional drivers, anyone of any level can enjoy the benefits of using DigSpice.

Data-logging is not only limited to racers, but can be utilized by people who wish to log detailed data for both recreational and professional use. Can be used for watercraft, cycling (all forms), skydiving, bobsleds, skiing, and many other forms of activities whether or not there is existing track course/map data.

Why should you use DigSpice?

You will often see many grassroots to pro-level race teams and drivers use data-logging device(s) to monitor both vehicle parameters as well as lap data. Such information is vital for real-time and post-race reviewing alike. The GPS-based ultra-compact design offers powerful and accurate data acquisition in a much lighter package compared to traditional standalone and piggy-back data-logging devices. 

The small, light, and user-friendly DigSpice II GPS Logger basically brings pro-level GPS data acquisition to the greenest amateurs and seasoned pros alike, who are looking to step foot into data-logging (or looking for a lighter alternative), for a fraction of the price. So why not take your cake and eat it, with high-resolution data-logging comparable to high-end GPS logging systems, but in an ultra-compact, truly portable, and hassle-free package!

Where can you use DigSpice?

Anywhere! Basically, there is almost no limit to where and how you can use the DigSpice II GPS Data Logger. As long as there is a GPS signal, the world is your limit. Since DigSpice records lateral, longitudinal, and altitude (X,Y, and Z), you can acquire data whether you are on the circuit in your car, out in the ocean in a jet-ski, or wingsuit diving from thousands of feet in the air.

Record data for small courses such as karting, autocross, gymkhana, motocross, or record long distance such as rally, baja.. even trips on trains, cars, or even planes. Whether in a small parking lot auto-cross event, or trail riding miles away from the nearest road, GPS data from DigSpice II can be uploaded onto Google Earth for easy viewing where there are no course/circuit or road map data.

Viewing on Google Earth not only allows you to view data collected from any where in the world, but also let you view it in 3D where elevation changes are present

When should DigSpice be used?

Since setup time is minimal, and there is only one switch on the device itself, anytime is a good time to use DigSpice when data needs to be collected. Where and how DigSpice can be used is up to the user. Anytime you wish to log elapsed times, lap times, or location, DigSpice offers an easy way to record data. Recording frequency can be adjusted from as little as 2Hz (0.5 sec interval), to the normal 5Hz (0.2 sec interval), to the high resolution true 10Hz (0.1 sec interval).

Set up minimum trigger "on" velocity (speed) to your preference for automatic recording/standby for non-continuous trips, activation of data-logging on track only (but on standby for off-track or during long pit stops/breaks), or any time you wish the DigSpice II GPS Data-Logger to function on its own without you monitoring it.


Hope that helps to introduce to you the benefits and basic features of DigSpice. We will add more entries in detail about the workings and how-to's on the DigSpice Driving Analysis Software included with every DigSpice II unit.

For more info visit us at the DigSpice USA website or follow us on twitter or facebook!

Dealer Inquiries are Welcome!

web: www.DigSpice.com
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