Race Technology DL-1 MK3 Data Logger with Live Processing

What does the DL1 MK3 do?

The DL1 can store data from a number of sources including its built in high accuracy GPS and accelerometers, wheel speeds, shaft speeds, engine speeds, temperatures, pressures, lap times, sector times etc. The DL1 comes packaged with the excellent Race Technology data analysis package for Windows. The software allows super accurate track mapping, user defined channels, powerful graphing and allows direct comparison of up to 10 data sets (races) simultaneously with almost unlimited laps.

The DL1 MK3 can optionally feature 4 output channels (Low side output drivers and 4 extra analogue inputs enhancement), which can be used to control external systems based on the data received. The output channels are designed to supply a logic level signal which can be used to activate a relay, to turn on/off a system. This control can be based on simple or complex equations, for example turn on a fan if temperature is high and speed is low. Greater control than simply on/off is offered with the PWN output option. See here for more details.

Why use GPS?

One of the key features of the DL1 is its built in high accuracy GPS system - this gives the DL1 advantages over other data loggers in 2 key areas - greatly improved track maps and far more accurate speed measurement.

Track Mapping. Conventional data loggers require a "closed circuit" to enable them to calculate the track map; the shape of the track is estimated from a combination of the lateral acceleration and speed. This works adequately in some situations but it becomes increasingly inaccurate for long tracks and impossible for open circuits, motorbikes or boats. In contrast, the GPS will produce high accuracy track maps in almost any situation.

Speed Measurement. While speed is probably the most important parameter that anyone wants to measure using the data logging system, it is also the most inaccurate in a "conventional" system. The normal way to measure speed is to simply attach a pickup to a wheel to detect how fast it is rotating - but the rolling circumference of a tyre changes by 4% just with wear and temperature. Even worse, the error increases significantly under race conditions where the tyre is under load - typically the tyre slips by up to 20% under hard braking going into a corner. Measuring speed using GPS is now common practice in high-end systems - under typical conditions speed error is well under 1%!

Features of the DL1MK3 data logger

The DL1MK3 is an all-new, 3rd generation, data logger system from Race Technology. Whilst the DL1 builds on the strengths of our highly successful DL90 system, it is a brand new design in almost every respect. Some of the most noteworthy features include:

• The new GPS unit is based on our own high accuracy GPS3 technology and calculates position and speed 5 times every second or 20 times every second with the optional 20 Hz GPS.
• Built in 3-axis accelerometer with 2g full scale (optional 6g full scale).
• Logging to SD card flash memory. Flash memory is robust, economical and offers fast download times and huge (up to 32GB cards compatible) capacity which is ideal for data logging products
• 12 analogue inputs. All the inputs are 12-bit accuracy (4096 different levels) and have a maximum input of 12v
• 2 RPM inputs, only one of which can be used at any one time. One for "high level" sources, such as the HT leads or the ignition coil. The other for low level signals from for example ECUs.
• 4 independent wheel or shaft speed inputs. These can be used to measure the speed of all four wheels, or slip ratios across a torque converter for example.
• Serial data (RS232) input. The serial port can be configured to accept data from an external source - for example data from the ECU, OBDii or CAN data (with a suitable adapter)
• Serial data (RS232) output. As well as logging the data to SD memory card it can also be streamed to other components in your vehicle’s data system.
• Small and tough, at just 124mm x 73mm x 35mm (4.9" x 2.9" x 1.4") it can be fitted into the smallest single seater, motorbike or go kart.
• Simple operation. A single button to start or stop logging, it's as simple as that! a remote button and status indicator can be added if required.
• Power supply requirements. The power supply to the DL1 data logger can be taken directly from the vehicles 12v supply, or it can be powered from its own battery if required. The power supply is smoothed and regulated within the DL1 ensuring its performance is highly robust and stable.
• Flash upgradeable firmware - as we add new features to the DL1MK3 you can upgrade yours to the latest specification for free.

For further information on the DL1 MK3 and its operation please visit our Knowledge Base here

For information on how the DL1 connects to other Race Technology products and 3rd party equipment please visit our Knowledge Base here 

A complete DL1 MK3 data logging system, ready to use. Includes:

• DL1 MK3 unit
• Magnetic mounting GPS antenna (3m cable)
• 1 pair of stainless steel mounting brackets
• 4 velcro strips
• 12v power lead (with connector block)
• Comprehensive software CD
• Carrying case (with cut foam interior)
• DL1 Quick Start Guide

Optional Extras:

• 6g 3 axis accelerometer
• 20Hz High accuracy GPS
• 20Hz GPS export licence
• Gyro for yaw measurements
• 2^nd serial port option
• PWM output controller
• DL1PRO IP54 sealed aluminium case
• External battery pack
• Various specialised GPS antennas

The only thing you will need to add is an SD card and a suitable card reader for your PC, to download and analyse data.

What is the difference between the DL1 MK3 and the DL1 Classic data logger?

The DL1 is based around some of the same technologies as the highly regarded DL1 Classic – However the DL1 MK3 is an all new and more powerful unit able to perform (and display live) calculations on live data, react by turning on/off external systems under configurable conditions, and there are more analogue inputs and enhancement options available. The DL1 MK3 is housed in a tough plastic case, uses SD cards for data storage, and has a USB port on the front of the unit for configuration and reflashing.

What is the maximum g-force/speed that can be measured?

The standard DL1 is configured for a maximum of 2g acceleration.  An optional 6g accelerometer range is also available. The maximum measurable speed is about 1000mph.

How often do you get GPS speed updates?

The GPS system calculates speed every 200ms (5 Hz), however this data is combined with the data from the accelerometers to calculate speed 100 times every second with very high accuracy.

How often do you get GPS position updates?

The GPS system calculates position every 200ms (5 Hz), however this data is combined with the data from the accelerometers to calculate position 100 times every second with very high accuracy.

How accurately is speed measured?

With average GPS reception, speed accuracy is about 0.1mph (or 0.1% if greater) when you are just driving along at fairly constant speed, and about 0.2mph (or 0.1% if greater) during fast accelerations or braking. The only exception is at very low speeds (under 10mph) where the error increases to about 1mph. Do not be fooled by exaggerated claims from other manufacturers… this is as good as it gets! In contrast, a standard wheel speed pickup is only accurate to about 4% at constant speeds, and under high accelerations or braking, the error increases up to about 20%.

How accurately is position measured? 

With good GPS reception, positional accuracy is about 3m (CEP).

What happens to the data if you drive under a bridge/tunnel/trees etc? 

Because speed and position are calculated from both the GPS data and accelerometers, even if the GPS data "disappears" for a number of seconds, you won't be able to tell from the data in the software. Only if GPS data disappears for an extended time (20+ seconds) will the data start to degrade noticeably.

Where can I buy it? 

Contact [email protected] to find your nearest stockist or use our secure online shopping facility

Is it upgradeable? 

Yes, the DL1 MK3 can be upgraded with 20Hz GPS, 20Hz export, 2^nd serial port, and PWM output controller at any time. Trade in service is also available if you wish to upgrade to a gyro, an IP54 sealed aluminium case, or upgrade the accelerometers. The trade in price will depend on your unit’s age and condition. Contact [email protected] for further information.

How much data can you log to a Compact flash card? 

The DL1MK3 logs about 27MB of data per hour, so for a 64MB card you could get up to about 2.4 hours of data, for a 2GB card you could get about 3 days. The maximum 32GB card would give you about 50 days.

Will it work with any SD card? 

Whilst we cannot guarantee that the DL1 works with all SD cards, we have successfully tested many makes and sizes of SD card, we haven't yet found one it won't work with.

Is it easy to use? 

The DL1 MK3 has one button to start and stop logging, how much simpler could we have made it? We have kept the software as simple as possible whilst making it as flexible as we can to ensure that you can do what you need to with it. As with all computer programs, the first time you use it there is a lot to take in - after you've become familiar with it, you will be able to analyse data quickly and efficiently.

I have more than one car that I want to use the DL1 in, is there an easy way to accommodate this?

Spare connectors for the DL1 data logger are available to purchase separately.  These are particularly useful if one unit is to be used in multiple vehicles - then it is easy to transfer the logger or performance meter without having to also disturb all of the electrical installation.

What specification of computer is required? 

As with most programs, the analysis software will run on just about any PC with windows 95 or later - however, the faster the PC, the faster the program will run. The main restriction is the memory required for long runs; typically we recommend that your PC has an absolute minimum of about 30MB of memory installed for each hour of data loaded. The PC also requires some means of downloading the data from the compact flash cards, there are many options available - normally a USB reader is most convenient.

Is the DL1 reliable and well made? 

The DL1 is absolutely class leading in terms or component quality, build quality and reliability - this is a very high quality professional instrument, entirely designed in-house and manufactured in the UK. The unit carries the normal 12 month guarantee against manufacturing defects and lifetime email support.