DL-1 vs. Traqmate

[cooleyjb]

I have just picked up a DL1 with Dash3; have also used Trackmate in the past, and have used AIM systems for a good 5+ years now as well.

The RaceTech stuff is definitely more advanced; that's why I went to it. The system will ultimately be going into my DSR, and be used for engine and chassis development. I need CAN and multiple input capabilities for that - shocks, engine data, etc.

GPS capability upgrade was another big reason to migrate from the AIM stuff (available there but quite expensive).

The Trackmate seems like a much simpler system - in a good way. Much better suited it seems for a less-experienced user to get up and running, start logging data, and make improvements. But it does seem less suitable for use as a comprehensive dash as well, as it seems you've noted. It's more of a standalone driver development tool only, it would seem.

From your comments, it sounds like you want a bunch of inputs... but not a dash. What then are you trying to do, exactly?

Not exactly Vaughn, AIM has stuff that is more economical than an MXL with GPS module

EVO4 system is 1199 and has GPS and CAN included, 1399 if you want a display. Same general price point as everyone else.

Echo what Jeremy said. Play with the software of the systems you're looking at. All of them have their quirks, annoying bits along with useful parts that mesh well with individual users.

I've used a bunch of them and have likes and dislikes for eachone. The Traqmate is the easiest one I've dealt with in regards to learning curve. The rest are equally less steep IMO but not too bad really. You really just need to spend the time to get comfortable with them.

[924Guy]

Maybe, but I'm just so fed up with the AIM driver situation, having to plug in to d/l data, it was time for a move. Dealt with it again this weekend... continual dicking with USB driver installs, vs. pull the card from the DL1 and copy the file (ran both loggers on the car for comparision and training purposes)...

I think their technology is a little dated, and they've moved upmarket a bit, the support from Italy just seems lacking though the guys here in the US do their damndest to support (and are very good).

[lehua011]

it is actually a little harder to use at first, but when you have become more experianced it can do so much more. But the most important reason to have Data is to share it with other drivers. You will get much faster by comparing your laps to someone who is faster.

[M5rokit]

I've got the DL1 along with the DASH 2 display. Not sure if the Trackmate has both but both of these add up $. Another question I've got is how to learn more about the data analysis. Race Technologies is in the UK and they have seminars there but not here. I've asked them to put one on in the East coast or to at lease provide us with the materials from one of their UK seminars. If there are a bunch of DL1 users out there with this same desire pipe up to them in the US so we can get some help. Al Seim.
[email protected] is their US rep.