11 replies to this topic

[BlueJay73]

1999 SM

I have had a SOLO2 DL and Smartycam for some years. I have not learned how to use RaceStudio to analyze the squiggly lines, but I see there are tutorials that show how to use it. I am woefully slow (4+ seconds off the pace at tracks that I'm familiar with, and my car and motor are very good and definitely not holding me back) and I have to get better for my own enjoyment of racing. So I'm going to watch those tutorials and hopefully learn it.

1-- Assuming I learn how to use analysis with RaceStudio, do I really need throttle sensor, brake sensor and steering angle sensor information to help me get faster? I realize that SOLO2 DL does not have those sensor capabilities for my '99 and that I would have to upgrade my SOLO2 DL to MXM or something, as well as get the sensors. So, do I really need that new stuff?

2-- Who do you guys recommended to help me get whatever new data acquisition equipment that is possibly needed, and help me on how to install it and use it? Sadly, the highly respected and much loved gentleman who sold me, and many others, the SOLO and Smartycam has passed.

 

Thanks.

[Steve Scheifler]

Given where you are with lap times, and that you run a spec(ish) class, there is a LOT to be gained from the data provided by the SOLO2, you don’t need those other add-ons yet. There’s a lot to learn from them but it also makes the early learning curve steeper. The best place to start is to find someone who’s running pretty close to full pace at your tracks and has AiM data they are willing to share. Then focus on tutorials geared specifically to the SOLO2 or at least the basic GPS and accelerometer data. Overlaying your laps with theirs it will very quickly become obvious where the most time is lost and the tutorials should help you translate that into a top 3 priority list for your next time out. If you find someone who will give you their data and knows how to use it they can probably kick-start your understanding with about a 30 minute introduction and save you hours of initial pain and confusion.

[lillyweld]

AiM has some tremendous tutorials on Youtube that will not only help you with your equipment but give you great ideas on how to use the hardware and software to improve. It is well-worth the time to go through the sessions that will help you in your specific situation.

[Alberto]

I feel that a better answer to your question is to get a driving coach and learn while you are both reviewing your data.  SOLO and SmartyCam is more than sufficient to get started - along with knowledge on how to use the data. 

 

Similar conversation here:

https://mazdaracers....-driving-coach/

[BlueJay73]

I am studying the many tutorials, and find that most focus on speed and longitudinal acceleration. The long. accel. essentially gives info about throttle and braking, so it looks like dedicated throttle, brake sensors may offer more info, but are not essential. But, you are correct; there are lots of tutorials, and they seem pretty good. Slow going though.

Regarding a driving coach, I would very much like to go that route, but I found there is almost nothing available in my area. Any volunteers?

[Steve Scheifler]

I feel that a better answer to your question is to get a driving coach and learn while you are both reviewing your data. SOLO and SmartyCam is more than sufficient to get started - along with knowledge on how to use the data.

Similar conversation here:
https://mazdaracers....-driving-coach/

I think good coaches are great if you can afford them BUT there are a lot of guys who are about the equivalent of your average DE “instructor” so get references. Unless uou have very deep pockets it’s also important to learn data yourself not just give it to someone then follow their advice, like the old saying about feeding a man vs teaching him to fish. It’s why so may data systems return very little value.

[BlueJay73]

Yeah, I am determined to teach myself how to fish with my Solo2 DL and Smartycam.

Today I wasted a lot of time finding out that apparently my version of the Solo2 DL (several years old) does not work with the new  RaceStudio 3. Like I said, slow going.

[Tom Sager]

Yeah, I am determined to teach myself how to fish with my Solo2 DL and Smartycam.

Today I wasted a lot of time finding out that apparently my version of the Solo2 DL (several years old) does not work with the new  RaceStudio 3. Like I said, slow going.

I don't think RS2 will limit you.  The analysis stuff in RS3 is pretty much identical to RS2 IIRC.  Not sure though if data files for the 2both versions are forward and backward compatible but good chance they are.  

[Alberto]

I think good coaches are great if you can afford them BUT there are a lot of guys who are about the equivalent of your average DE “instructor” so get references. Unless uou have very deep pockets it’s also important to learn data yourself not just give it to someone then follow their advice, like the old saying about feeding a man vs teaching him to fish. It’s why so may data systems return very little value.

 

Very true and much agreed.  

[BlueJay73]

I don't think RS2 will limit you.  The analysis stuff in RS3 is pretty much identical to RS2 IIRC.  Not sure though if data files for the 2both versions are forward and backward compatible but good chance they are.  

I followed a tutorial on configuring the Solo2 DL and Smartycam with RS3. When finished, you have to press a "transmit" button to send the configurations into RS3. Smartycam transmitted successfully, Old Solo2 DL did not.

 

There are RaceStudio, Racestudio2, and now Racestudio3 programs. Then, there is also a separate RaceAnalysis program, which seems to bring you to the RaceStudio programs. The confusion starts early.

[Tom Sager]

I followed a tutorial on configuring the Solo2 DL and Smartycam with RS3. When finished, you have to press a "transmit" button to send the configurations into RS3. Smartycam transmitted successfully, Old Solo2 DL did not.

 

There are RaceStudio, Racestudio2, and now Racestudio3 programs. Then, there is also a separate RaceAnalysis program, which seems to bring you to the RaceStudio programs. The confusion starts early.

You might send a note to Roger Caddell at AIM.  He's likely to help or find you help.  If it turns out you have to use RS2 due to the age of the Solo, you aren't giving much away.  The on track analysis is very similar in both versions.  I used RS2 until 2020 just fine and one of the cars in the family still has a beacon based AIM data logger that to this day works great.  They all measure the same stuff really. 

[BlueJay73]

Well, one thing I learned is I have a Solo DL, not a Solo2 DL. I bought it new from Jerry Austin quite a few years ago. I don't know why or when I started thinking it was a 2. Probably does the same thing, without some of the extra bells and whistles.