DIY MaxQData


#1

Rather than hijacking another thread, I will start this one to explain how to set up a MaxQData GPS logger for about $140.

Here are two warnings.

  1. No one else uses MaxQData. You will not be able to easily compare your data with someone else.

  2. This is the cheapest way to set up a GPS based data logging. However, it’s not for the faint of heart. There is only limited software support. If you are a nerd, then you will enjoy the adventure. If you are not, then stay away.

Prerequisite: A PDA with Bluetooth or a WM5 or 6 based smartphone or a PDA phone with Bluetooth. If you don’t have one, you can find cheap used PDAs on ebay.

*MaxQData HiDef Lite DIY unlock code $49.00
It’s on a hidden page.

*Wintec G-Ray I $59.00
Here is one site

*Some way to mount the GPS receiver on top of the car.
MaxQData has a mount but it’s $40.00. Mine was $30.00 (can’t find the link right now). The set up will work ok inside the car but being mounted on the top gets the best reception. You can also just tape it to the roof with duck tape. One charge will last all weekend.

So there you have it. A DIY GPS logger for $140. It’s cheaper than most timing set up.

Again, it’s not Traqmate but does a lot for how much it costs. Of course you can pay more with MaxQData and get a full set if you are not into DIY.

YMMV.


#2

You know I thought about starting a new thread with that last post, glad you did it.

They had a special on the MaxQ Version 3.0b software for $99 until the end of January. I’m guessing that has features the “lite” version doesn’t have?


#3

drumbeater wrote:

[quote]You know I thought about starting a new thread with that last post, glad you did it.

They had a special on the MaxQ Version 3.0b software for $99 until the end of January. I’m guessing that has features the “lite” version doesn’t have?[/quote]

That software is for the new video overlaying feature for combining video with the captured data.

You will still need a GPS software.


#4

I put the maxQ software on my HTC Wing a while ago. I have a i.Trek m5+ bluetooth GPS unit, but I was never able to get them to talk to each other. Maybe I will look at it again.


#5

A cheaper way to mount is just velcro the GPS receiver to the dash. I have mine mounted as far forward as possible to give it the most clear view and it works great. I’ve never had a reception problem.

mount cost: $.50!

I like the MaxQdata system, but I agree with everything mentioned above. It’s not the easiest to set up and use, but it has some nice features. I like having my pocket pc as the display because the digits are HUGE and easy to see.


#6

shifter11 wrote:

[quote]A cheaper way to mount is just velcro the GPS receiver to the dash. I have mine mounted as far forward as possible to give it the most clear view and it works great. I’ve never had a reception problem.

mount cost: $.50!

I like the MaxQdata system, but I agree with everything mentioned above. It’s not the easiest to set up and use, but it has some nice features. I like having my pocket pc as the display because the digits are HUGE and easy to see.[/quote]

Wow another E30 person using a MaxQData!

Believe me if I didn’t have to spend the money for the mount, I would not have.

I use to velcro it just like you to the forward dash but I ran into some problems depending on the location of the satellites.

Here is an example;

Morning

Evening

Mounting location is the same for both (front of the dash). As you can see, depending on the location of the satellites, roof was blocking the signals at some point on the track.


#7

duplicate post.


#8

Hmmm… I’ve never noticed that on mine. I’ll definitely be watching closer from now on. I honestly don’t use the mapping that much although I should! I mainly just use it for lap timing while on track. I LOVE the continuous lap times it gives you.

Below is a shot of my setup. You can see the gps mounted at the far right under the windshield. For the pocket pc I have a RAM mount that is attached to a piece of aluminum that I made to hold it. That is also velcro’d to the dash. So far so good!


#9

oh I love the continuous lap time too. It really helps me in seeing if what I just tried is good or bad.

The other feature that I really like is the Zoomed mapping display. For me, this representation of the data gives me more insight as the what is going on than looking at 3 or 4 graphs at the same time and trying to make a sense out of them.

You can put a view of a best segment vs. the current run and see where things are different in a glance.

Just be careful with your current mount location. Depending on the time of the day, you may not have enough lock on satellites to get a valid reading.

One way to test it is to do a run with “Number of Satellites” showing on your display. If the number falls below 6, then you are in a weak signal spot at that time of the day.


#10

Ok, well there will be a 3rd SpecE30 this year using MaxqData. I got mine working apparently to use the Bluetooth on the Wing you have to turn on the phone part of the device.

Looks like I will have to get the Bluetooth device you listed as mine is only 1 Hz (it was free)

does that GPS give you all the gforce readings as well?


#11

I think all of the GPS receivers will process the g-force data, but I don’t know that for sure. You’ll definitely want 5Hz or better because of the speeds we go. If it were just for autocross 1Hz would be acceptable, but just barely.

This is the GPS I’m using… Globaltop G-33. I have been very happy with it, but I’m sure there are many others that work as well.


#12

Peakracer.com wrote:

[quote]Ok, well there will be a 3rd SpecE30 this year using MaxqData. I got mine working apparently to use the Bluetooth on the Wing you have to turn on the phone part of the device.

Looks like I will have to get the Bluetooth device you listed as mine is only 1 Hz (it was free)

does that GPS give you all the gforce readings as well?[/quote]

Yes, like all other GPS based system, G forces are calculated from the position data.

Some more expensive systems add accelerometer to the GPS position data to arrive at more accurate measurement (less noise).