jayk

Is a Datalogit a replacement for a commander or are both desirable? Are there any cool options for displaying the datalogit software other than a laptop? I'm not a big fan of gizmos in the cockpit, but don't want to lose the ability to monitor important numbers easily. It would be great to be able to plug in a palm or other mini computer when I needed it, and take it out of the car when I don't.

DaleClark

iTrader: (55)

You can always plug the commander in and remove it - it's not a permanent fixture.

Really, both is the way to go. The commander is great for day-to-day monitoring and small adjustments, and the Datalogit is great for serious tuning and tinkering, but having a full laptop in the car is a bit bulky.

If you can only get one, get the commander IMHO.

Dale

mark57

Ya gotta have both of them, esp. if you're heavily modded. The Commander is great for monitoring, some diagnostics, and does the job of numerous dedicated gauges except boost; Datalogit allows making the necessary safety, reliability, and performance changes to the ECU that cannot be accomplished via the Commander. I can't see running the car not having both tools. Plus, an Innovate LM1 WBO2 and you're totally covered.

jeff48

Need is a funny word.
In the world of RX7s and aftermarket ECUs it is even funnier.

I have always had both the datalogit and the Commander. I use the datalogit at least 2 to 3 times per month just to get a handle on the current operation of the systems. I generate datalogs and compare them to the baselines established on the day the car was last "tuned".

I also have the luxury of a full time PC built into my car with a touchscreen display so I can turn on the datalogit mapwatch function and use that as a super-commander in monitor mode. I can watch up to 10 functions in a display format that does not have me squinting to see.

Finally on a day-to-day basis, I leave the commander in a 4 line monitor mode in which I monitor, AIT, Coolant temp, Boost, and Inj duty.

Need is a funny word-------

mark57

Jeff - Can ya lay on us more info of your in-car PC setup and a pic of it? I think I got a new "need"........

jeff48

My computer:

1.2Ghz CPU
512mb DDR Ram
60GB Hard Drive
8x dvd rom
USB Holux GPS Hardware and Software
MediaCar software
Zippy USB keyboard
7" XENARC TFT LCD Touchscreen
Opus 150W 12v-12v Power supply (generates regulated 12v of power from anywhere between 8 and 16 volts on the battery side so no shut down when cranking over the engine).

The computer and power supply sits in a Casetronic C-138 case in the rear hatch area along with a cheap subwoofer and speakers. The Touchscreen is currently temporarily mounted in front of the HVAC controls. Soon to be in an in-dash non-motorized housing which will be placed in the 1/2 din slot where the bose cd player once lived.


I just ran across a similar (but not identical) set up on ebay.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...tem=5189592968

philkeoghan

Hey Jeff
your computer set up sounds awsome, would it be possible to get some pic's of it. or anymore information you might have on it!
Cheers

RX7 RAGE

iTrader: (22)

I'd like to also see that pc setup jeff.

jeff48

I'll see if I can put up some pics later today. Just remember that the placement of the screen is temporary. I will be installing a motorized dash mount by xenarc ( http://www.xenarcdirect.com/store/pr...8&cat=0&page=1 ) sometime later this month.

jeff48

Here are the shots of the Carputer "test and tune" install. Final positioning of the components are just about correct. An upgraded audio system is being constructed and a Sound Blaster USB Audigy external sound card will drive the 5.1 system.

The screen shot is in bright sunlight with as much glare as I ever get. You are looking at a screen shot of the Nav system (Holux GPS running Micorsoft Streets and Trips 2005) with FC Edit "Watch" Boxes superimposed over the Nav. At the same time, one of my 15 gb of MP3s is running on the audio system. I also have the ability to view videos, check my "Outlook" Scheduling and contact files and, soon will have the ability to wireless internet.

Remember there is still some final install work to do and cleaning up the wiring etc. Right now the system outperforms my wildest expectations.

jneumonik

wow that looks sick!!

philkeoghan

Thats wicked thanks for getting those photos up.
will try and do the same sort of thing.
Thanks again