Getting Started With The DataMaxx Data Logger

 

"PLAN YOUR WORK & WORK YOUR PLAN”

The above quote is something my grandfather has always told me, and this holds true with the DataMaxx. If you plan out where things will be installed and take care to avoid ignition components then your installation will be stress free and your signals will look clear and smooth. If you dive in without reading the manual, you will get frustrated and your end result may be noisy hard to read signals, so “Plan your work and work your plan.”

1. Read the entire Getting Started section

2. Fill out the DataMaxx configuration page

3. Install all modules

4. Install all sensors

5. Run wires while avoiding ignition components

6. Terminate wires into Main & Analog modules

7. Perform your “Initial Calibration”

8. Record a test run to confirm calibration
   

1. The first step would be to take stock of all the parts you have ordered and try to get a mental picture of where you want the main module, how your going to mount the sensors and where your going to run the wires in order to avoid ignition components. The more time you spend efficiently planning the better off your going to be.

2. The next step is to fill out the DataMaxx configuration page. This is extremely important because you need to know exactly where the sensors are physically installed so that we can tell the software and calibrate them appropriately. Be sure to list what type of sensor it is and refer to the sensors specific instructions for RTD and GND dip switch settings.

3. It is now time to install the modules (Main, Analog, LCD, EGT). It is recommended that you locate the main and analog modules in a covered area that is relatively vibration free and not anywhere near an ignition component. Ignition components include ignition boxes, ignition coils, the wire from the ignition to coil, distributors, magnetos, solenoids and even ignition kill switches.

4. Now you can install your sensors. It is easier to mount and install all of your sensors before you run your wires, and will usually lead to a cleaner looking installation. Each sensor has an overview, part numbers, installation instructions, calibration, and testing associated with it and should be read over carefully.

5. Once the modules and sensors have been installed we can wire the car. This is by far the most crucial and important part of the installation process. Sensor wires should be at least 8” away from any ignition component otherwise your signals will be erratic and hard to read. Ignition components include ignition boxes, ignition coils, the wire from the ignition to coil, distributors, magnetos, solenoids and even ignition kill switches. It is recommended to use MSD 8.5mm superconductor wires as these offer the best protection from ignition interference noise.

If possible you want to run all of your data wires together, on the opposite side of your ignition components. For more information on the importance of avoiding ignition noise, see “How to Wire Correctly” & “Avoiding RFI Noise” in the additional information section.

6. We are now ready to terminate the wires into the main and analog units. Use your DataMaxx configuration sheet as a guide to where each sensor should be plugged into and utilize the label on the inside of the lid to help identify the channels. Refer to the sensors individual instructions and “How to wire correctly” in the Additional Information section. After you are done wiring, confirm that your installation matches your DataMaxx configuration sheet.

7. It is now time to tell the software and the hardware what is actually installed on your system. You can either read the “Initial Calibration” in the Software section, or watch the instructional screen shot video that was included with your software. If you cannot find your disk then the instructional video is available on our customer web forum at www.ComputechRacing.com

8. Now that you have installed all of your modules, sensors, and wires as well as performed the initial calibration we need to test the system to ensure that everything is working properly. It is best to actually fire up the car at this point as we are looking to see if the pressure and temperature sensors react in the proper way. If possible put the car on jacks and allow the drive shaft to move enough to pick up a reading. If any problems occur at this point, refer to the troubleshooting guide, otherwise the system should be functional and your readings should be smooth and easy to read.