Update 3.1.1 Dec.

2003
 Table Of Contents Acceleration Runs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Measuring Your Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Stopping the E.T. clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Viewing Run Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Discarding Run Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Table Of Contents
G-tech Front Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Saving a run / default name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
G-tech Back Side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 G-tech Stored Runs Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The G-tech Keyboard Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Menus and Scroll Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Renaming and saving a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Operating Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Checking Free Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Saving a run / low on memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Quick Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Analyzing Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Quick Setup and Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Setting Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Loading a Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Setting Vehicle Redline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Overview — Run Viewing Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Setting the Shiftlight Setpoint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Setting Vehicle Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 HP & Torque vs RPMs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Calibrating RPMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 HP vs time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Calibrating Accelerometers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 RPM vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Calibration & Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Speed vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Mounting the G-tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Measuring 0-40 MPH, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Assembling the Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Measuring 50-70 MPH, etc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Mounting the Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Measuring 0-100-0, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Gs (Acceleration) vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
G-Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Braking Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Drag Strip Mode Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Stored Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
G-Window: Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
G-Window: Acceleration Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Recalling a Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Self-leveling the G-tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Reviewing Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Renaming A Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

1 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 1

 Deleting a Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Additional Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Downloading A Stored Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Tips for Improving Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Deleting ALL Stored Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Accelerometer Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142
Downloading All Stored Runs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 X-Y-Z Gs Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143
Erasing Accel. Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144
Advanced Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
RPM Calibration Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145
Setting U.S. or Metric Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Drag Strip Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147
Setting the Speed Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Adjusting the bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .149
Setting the Distance Marks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Removing the bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150
Shiftlights Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Permanent Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151
Enabling / Disabling Shiftlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
Cornering Lights Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152
Setting the Cornering Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Frequently Asked Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153
Displaying Firmware Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154
Resetting to Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 I Want To... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155
Serial Port Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 G-tech-Computer Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157
Adjusting the LCD Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Horsepower, Torque & G-tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157
What does my vehicle weigh? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160
Multiple Vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162
Multiple Vehicle Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 For more info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165
Vehicle-Specific Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Selecting a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Renaming a Vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Showing the Active Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Pro Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Reaction Time / Start Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Using the Timing Tree Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Setting the Rollout Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

2 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 List Of Figures Figure 19: G-tech 1/4 mile results screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Figure 20: G-tech milestones screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Figure 1: G-tech front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Figure 21: Run Save menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Figure 2: G-tech rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Figure 22: Confirmation before discarding run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Figure 3: G-tech cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Figure 23: G-tech Run Viewing menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

List Of Figures
Figure 4: A G-tech menu with a scroll bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Figure 24: G-tech Run Save menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Figure 5: Configuration Mode — Main Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Figure 25: G-tech display while run is being saved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Figure 6: Drag Strip Mode — Main Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Figure 26: G-tech 30 file limit warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Figure 7: Switching between Drag Strip & Configuration Modes . . 15
Figure 27: Choose a file to delete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Figure 8: G-tech accelerometer calibration request . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Figure 28: Low on Memory Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Figure 9: Mounting bracket parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Figure 29: Deleting runs to free memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
Figure 10: Drag Strip Mode — G-Window screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Figure 30: Run Viewing Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Figure 11: G-Window tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Figure 31: G-tech Run Viewing Menu Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
Figure 12: Acceleration Bars & Primary Acceleration Indicator. . . . 48
Figure 32: Horsepower / Torque summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Figure 13: Primary Acceleration Direction Indicator. . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Figure 33: Graph of Horsepower & Torque vs RPMs . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Figure 14: Staging Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Figure 34: Graph of horsepower vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Figure 15: G-tech is staged and ready to go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Figure 35: Graph of RPMs vs Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76
Figure 16: G-tech screen during a run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Figure 36: RPMs vs Time — launch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Figure 17: G-tech screen at completion of 1/4 mile run . . . . . . . . . 55
Figure 37: RPMs vs Time — milestones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Figure 18: G-tech Run Viewing Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

3 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 3

 Figure 38: RPMs vs time — shifts and gears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Figure 39: Graph of Speed vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Figure 40: Graph of Gs vs time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Figure 41: Braking and accelerating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Figure 42: Cornering Lights Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Figure 43: Configuration Mode Menu Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Figure 44: Drag Strip Mode Menu Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Figure 45: Performing an Acceleration Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Figure 46: Permanent Mounting Stem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

4 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Welcome

Welcome
Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION
on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
5 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 5
Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION
on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
6 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 G-TECH / Pro Competition As you become more familiar with the G-tech’s powerful
capabilities, you will learn how to create very valuable tuning
Performance Meter records and increase the consistency of your measurements.

For us, the G-tech has been a labor of love. It has all of the
Thank you for purchasing your G-TECH / Pro Competition
features you’ll ever want and there is truly nothing else like it
Performance Meter.
in the world. Our motto has always been to bring the latest
technology and innovation into the hands of our customers
I am very pleased and proud to present this product to you
and maybe contribute, in a small way, to brightening their day.

Welcome
and welcome you to our G-tech users family.
So, without further ado, go out there and have some fun.
As you read along and especially as you start having fun with
your G-tech you will realize something. You will see that this
Please drive safely.
is a precision instrument with a high level of sophistication
usually found in products from large industrial conglomerates.
Jovo Majstorovic
President, Tesla Electronics Inc.
But in the case of the G-tech, the development comes from
enthusiasts, guys who are not driven by the bottom line, guys
who – just like you – have gasoline in their blood and a love
for cars. Guys who have spent years of sleepless nights to
perfect this product.

It’s up to you to decide how far you want to take the G-tech.
You can do 0-60 MPH and 1/4 mile measurements after only
a brief setup procedure.

7 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 7

 Warning: Always obey all local and federal laws when Tesla Electronics, Inc. shall not be held liable for technical or
using this device. This device is not intended for street or editorial errors or omissions made herein; nor for incidental
highway use. Use only in designated areas, closed courses or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, per-
and racetracks. formance or use of this material.

Warning: Adverse weather conditions can severely impair Tesla Electronics, Inc. shall not be held liable in any way for
a vehicle’s controllability, especially at high speed. When any incidental or consequential damages to the vehicle,
using this device, drive cautiously and within the limits of driver, passengers, and/or other involved parties or property
your vehicle under the conditions. occurring while using the G-tech.

Warning: Don’t take your eyes off the road. The G-tech TESLA Electronics Inc. reserves the right to make changes to
will record your results for viewing and playback after the this manual and other product specifications at any time
run. This device is designed as a test and tuning tool to mea- without any further notice.
sure performance and safety characteristics of a given vehi-
cle. Use it for that purpose only. The content of this manual is for informational use only and
is not intended as a commitment of any kind.

Please drive safely.

8 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

Basics

Basics
This section will give you a basic overview of the G-
tech.

Every new user should read this section!!!

9 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 9

 Photosensor
G-tech Front Side
LEDs
We want you to be up and running in no time, so we have
created a “Quick Setup Procedure” to streamline the pro- OK Button
cess.
Menu Button

Please follow the steps described in this section to familiarize Navigation

yourself with the product, and to set it up. Buttons

Note: In this manual, we will refer to the G-TECH / Pro Figure 1: G-tech front
Competition product simply as the “G-tech”.
• Photosensor – measures ambient light
All input to the G-tech is done through the buttons on the
right-hand side. • Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) – red lights that turn on
under certain conditions

• OK button ( ) – used to confirm entry of data and

make menu selections

• MENU button ( ) – brings up multi-line menus

• Navigation buttons ( , , and ) – used for

moving cursor around in menus, graphs, etc.

10 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 G-tech Back Side Cables
The back of the G-tech has 2 connectors as shown in Figure The G-tech ships with 3 separate cables:
2:

DC Power Jack

Basics
Serial Communications Port
Figure 3: G-tech cables
Figure 2: G-tech rear
• Serial Cable – used to connect the G-tech to a com-
• DC Power Jack – plug in either of the supplied DC puter for data transfer
power cables into this connector
• AC Power Adapter – this cable supplies power from
• Serial Communications Port – plug in the supplied any 120V AC wall socket
serial cable into this port to enable communications
between the G-tech and a computer • 12V cigarette lighter DC Power Cable – supplies
power from vehicle’s accessory (cigarette lighter) socket

11 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 11

 The 12V cigarette lighter DC Power Cable has a fuse in the
end that plugs into your vehicle. If the cable does not seem to
provide power when the vehicle is running, the fuse may be
Menus and Scroll Bars
blown and need replacing.
Generally, pressing will bring up a multi-line text menu.
To replace the fuse, unscrew the tip and replace the fuse An example of one of the G-tech’s menus is shown in Figure
with a standard 1 AMP fuse. Fuses can normally be purchased 4:
at any automotive parts store.

Scroll bar

Figure 4: A G-tech menu with a scroll bar

Some menus have a scroll bar on the right hand side. This
means that there are more items in the menu than the G-
tech can display at once.

Use the / arrow keys to move through all the choices

in the menu.

12 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 The shaded portion of the scroll bar will move as you scroll
through the choices.
Operating Modes
The G-tech has two basic modes of operation:

• Configuration Mode

• Drag Strip Mode

You use Configuration Mode to tailor the G-tech to your

Basics
vehicle and personal preferences.

In Drag Strip Mode, you can use the G-tech to make all sorts
of popular measurements, including:

• 0-60 MPH Times

• 1/4 mile E.T. and trap speed

• Horsepower and torque measurements

• Braking distance measurements

• Cornering / lateral G measurements

The G-tech remembers which mode it was last in when you

power off. When you power it on again, it starts up again in
the same mode it was in before.

13 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 13

 If you power on your G-tech and the display looks like Figure
5, your G-tech is in Configuration Mode.

Figure 5: Configuration Mode — Main Screen

If you power on your G-tech and the display looks like Figure
6, your G-tech is in Drag Strip Mode.

Figure 6: Drag Strip Mode — Main Screen

You can easily switch between the two modes, as shown in

Figure 7.

14 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Drag Strip Mode
Main Screen

Basics
Configuration Mode
Main Screen

Figure 7: Switching between Drag Strip & Configuration Modes

15 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 15

16 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 Quick Setup
Quick Setup
This section will get you up and running as quickly as
possible.

This section must be completed to obtain accurate

results!!!

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
17 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 17
 Quick Setup and Use Setting Time and Date
Here you will customize the G-tech for your vehicle and your The G-tech has an internal clock that keeps time and date,
personal preferences. even when no power is applied.

The G-tech saves your configuration choices internally, even Whenever you make measurements with the G-tech, it
when it is powered off. stores the time and date as well. This makes it easy to review
your measurements and make sense of them.
The table below summarizes the Quick Setup Procedure, and
how much time each step will take to perform.
1 Start in Configuration Mode.
Setup Item Estimated Completion Time
Set time and date 1 minute
Set vehicle redline 1 minute
Set shiftlight setpoint 1 minute
Set vehicle weight 1 minute
Calibrate RPMs 2 minutes
Calibrate accelerometers 3 minutes
Mount G-tech 2 minutes

18 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press . 4 Set the date.
and move between fields, and
change values.
Press when done.

Note: Day of week (e.g. Tuesday) is calculated

Quick Setup
automatically and cannot be set.

3 Select “Set Date and Time” and press .

5 Set the time.

Use to move and adjust fields.
Press when done.

19 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 19

 Setting Vehicle Redline 2 Select “Vehicle Data” and press .

You should set the vehicle redline value in the G-tech before
using it.

This will allow the G-tech to display the graphical tachometer

(p. 47) so that it matches your vehicle’s own tachometer.

This step is essential for accurate RPM calibration (p. 25).

3 Select “Engine Redline” and press .

Note: You will see the text “MUSTANG 66” in

1 Start in Configuration Mode. many places throughout this document. This is
because the G-tech can be used in multiple vehicles
and allows you to name each one (p. 122). On a new
G-tech, you will see the text “noname1” here.

20 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 4 Enter vehicle’s engine redline.
Setting the Shiftlight Setpoint
Press when done or press to abort and dis-
card the changes.
The shiftlights illuminate to indicate when you should upshift
into the next gear.

If you have a manual transmission vehicle, or a vehicle whose

Quick Setup
gears can be shifted under driver control, this feature may be
of interest to you.

If you do not have control over when your vehicle shifts

gears, you probably want to disable the shiftlights altogether
(page 110).

Before using the G-tech’s shiftlights feature, you must set the
shiftlight setpoint RPM value.

Some people set the shiftlight setpoint to the same value as

their vehicle’s redline value; other people set it to a lower
value, so that the lights turn on before they reach redline in a
run. It is your preference and can be changed at any time.

The shiftlight setpoint is also indicated on the graphical

tachometer on the G-Window (page 47).

21 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 21

 Note: This step must be performed in the vehicle, it cannot
be performed when powered by the AC power adapter. 4 Select “Shiftlights” and press .

1 Start your vehicle, and plug the G-tech into your

vehicle’s accessory power outlet.

2 Put the G-tech in Configuration Mode.

5 Select “Set Shiftpoint” and press .

3 Select “Vehicle Data” and press .

22 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 6 Enter RPM shiftpoint.
Setting Vehicle Weight
Press when done or press to abort and dis-
card the changes.
The G-tech uses your vehicle’s weight in its horsepower and
torque calculations.

Thus, it is extremely important that you enter an accurate

Quick Setup
weight for your vehicle before using the G-tech. Please refer
to page 160 for details on determining an accurate vehicle
weight.

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

23 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 23

 2 Select “Vehicle Data” and press . 4 Enter your gross vehicle weight.
Press when done or press to abort and dis-
card the changes.

3 Select “Vehicle Weight” and press .

Note: Be sure to include weight of fuel, driver,
equipment, etc. (page 160)

24 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Calibrating RPMs
Some of the most exciting features in the G-tech rely on
1 Start in Configuration Mode.
good RPM measurements.

Since every vehicle has a unique electronic “RPM signature,”

Quick Setup
the G-tech must learn the RPM signature at two different
points for your particular vehicle before it can measure and
record RPMs.

Follow the steps below to calibrate the G-tech for your vehi-
cle’s RPM signature.
2 Select “Calibration” and press .

Note: You must set the redline in the G-tech (page 20) prior
to this step!

Note: For detailed information on calibrating RPMs, please

refer to “RPM Calibration Tips” on page 145.

25 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 25

 3 Select “RPMs” and press . 5 High RPM calibration: Match vehicle RPMs to G-
tech. Then press when vehicle RPMs are steady
at the requested value.

Note: The RPM value shown here may be differ-

ent than the value your G-tech displays. During this
process, use the value on your G-tech!

4 If the redline value is set properly, press to con-

tinue. If not, press to cancel, and then set the
redline in the G-tech (page 20).

26 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 For detailed information on calibrating RPMs, please refer
6 Low RPM calibration: Again match vehicle RPMs to to “RPM Calibration Tips” on page 145.
G-tech, and press when vehicle RPMs are
steady at the requested value.

Note: The RPM value shown here may be differ-

ent than the value your G-tech displays. During this

Quick Setup
process, use the value on your G-tech!

7 You will see this screen briefly when the procedure

is complete, and then you will be returned to the
previous menu in Step 4.

27 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 27

 Note: If you do not have the G-tech oriented properly during
calibration (i.e. upside down, rotated by 90 degrees, etc.), it will
Calibrating Accelerometers reject the calibration and display a message notifying you of this
fact. Just re-attempt the calibration and pay close attention to
The G-tech contains high-precision measuring instruments the instructions on the display.
called accelerometers.
Note: The G-tech functions best when calibrated at 2 differ-
Note: In order to obtain accurate measurements, the accel- ent temperatures that are as far apart as possible (page 35). If
erometers must be calibrated. Do not skip this procedure, as it is you attempt to perform a calibration and the G-tech determines
very important! that it has already been calibrated at (or near) the current tem-
perature, it will “reject” your calibration attempt and notify you
Do not perform the calibration with the engine running. A run- with a message on the display. If you get this message, let the G-
ning engine causes vibrations in the vehicle that can affect your tech warm up or cool down so that its temperature is signifi-
calibration results. cantly different than the current temperature, and try again.

The accelerometer calibration procedure does not need to be Please follow the steps below to calibrate the G-tech’s accel-
done inside the vehicle. You may find the procedure easier if you erometers.
do it indoors using the AC adapter to power your G-tech.

The accelerometer calibration procedure will generally go faster

if you can rest the G-tech on a flat, level surface such as a table
or a console. Generally, the faster the calibration goes, the better
the results.

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
28 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 3 Select “Accelerometers” and press .

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

Quick Setup
4 Select “Calibrate Axes” and press .

2 Select “Calibration” and press .

5 You will see the following screen:

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
29 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 29
 6 With the G-tech resting on a flat, level surface, ori- 7 Hold the G-tech very still, and then press .
The G-tech will automatically move on to the next
ent it with the arrows pointing up to the sky as
step once it takes some measurements.
shown in the picture below.
Note: If you are not holding the G-tech very still,
you will see a blinking black bar on the display as
shown below. If you see a display like this, you must
hold the G-tech very steady until the black bar goes
away.

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
30 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 8 Next, orient the G-tech as shown and press . 9 Next orient the G-tech as shown with the arrows
pointing up, and press .

Quick Setup
Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION
on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
31 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 31
 10 Again orient the G-tech as shown with the arrows 11 Lay the G-tech on a flat (horizontal) surface with
pointing up, and press . the display facing up, as shown, and press .

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
32 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 12 Orient the G-tech with the display facing down, as 13 Now it is time for some final checks.
shown, and press . Orient the G-tech as shown, read the screen, and
press .

Quick Setup
14 The following instruction screen will appear. Read it
and then press .

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
33 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 33
 15 Tilt the G-tech back as shown, so the ball rests in 16 Re-orient the G-tech as shown and press .
the box. The G-tech will automatically advance to
the next calibration step when you have accom-
plished this.

17 The following instruction screen will appear. Read it

and then press .

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
34 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 18 Tilt the G-tech clockwise as shown so that the ball
Calibration & Temperature
rests in the square.

The G-tech’s accelerometers are sensitive to changes in tem-

perature. Ideally, you will calibrate the G-tech at two different
temperatures that are far apart. This helps the G-tech main-
tain accuracy across a wide range of temperatures.

Quick Setup
To maintain accuracy, the G-tech monitors temperature with
a built-in thermal sensor. When the G-tech detects that its
current temperature is far from the calibration temperature, it
displays a message as shown in Figure 8.

19 This screen indicates that the calibration procedure

is complete.

Figure 8: G-tech accelerometer calibration request

If this text automatically appears on your display, you should

put the G-tech into Configuration Mode and then perform
an accelerometer calibration (“Calibrating Accelerometers”
on page 28).
For more information on calibrating the accelerometers,
please refer to “Accelerometer Tips” on page 142.
Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION
on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
35 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 35
 For more information on accelerometers, calibration, and
accuracy, please refer to “Accelerometer Tips” on page 142.
Mounting the G-tech
The G-tech is shipped with a sophisticated mounting system
that is used to hold the G-tech steady in your vehicle.

This section describes:

• the different pieces of the mounting bracket

• how to assemble the mounting bracket

• how to mount the bracket in your vehicle

Note: In order to obtain accurate measurements, the G-tech

must be mounted properly. Please read this section carefully, it is
very important!

For directions on removing the mounting bracket from

your windshield, please refer to “Removing the bracket” on
page 150.

For directions on permanently mounting the bracket in

your vehicle, please refer to “Permanent Mounting” on
page 151.

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
36 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 Figure 9 shows the different pieces of the G-tech mounting
bracket.
Assembling the Bracket
Suction Cup Large (Vacuum) Nut
Note: Steps 1-3 may already be performed on your mount-
ing bracket at the factory. These steps are provided so that you
Small
can always properly re-assemble your mounting bracket from its
(Tensioning)
pieces if necessary.

Quick Setup
Nut
Suction Cup
Release Tab
1 Insert the Large Vacuum Nut into the Mounting
Mounting Bracket.
Mounting Bracket Clip
Figure 9: Mounting bracket parts

37 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 37

 2 Insert the suction cup into the mounting bracket. 3 Turn the suction cup clockwise into the Large Vac-
uum Nut until approximately 1/4 inch of threads
protrude.

1/4"

38 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 4 Place the Small Tensioning Nut on the threaded 5 Now back off the Large Vacuum Nut counter-
spindle, and turn it clockwise a until it is snug on the clockwise until it touches the Small Tensioning Nut.
stem. There should be a small gap between the
Small Tensioning Nut and the Large Vacuum Nut.

No Gap

Quick Setup
Small Gaps

39 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 39

 6 Gently insert the rubber ball of the mounting clip
Mounting the Bracket
into the mounting bracket. It should go in with little
force and fit snugly.

1 Find a place on your vehicle’s windshield where you

can mount the G-tech without affecting visibility.

Note: Make sure the mounting area on the wind-

shield is very clean and dry; otherwise, the mounting
bracket may not work properly.

2 Place the large rubber suction cup on the mounting

area of the windshield. Make sure there is a large
gap between the Large Vacuum Nut and the
mounting bracket.

Large Gap

R
AI
40 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 3 Push the Large Vacuum Nut firmly towards the 5 Turn the Large Vacuum Nut clockwise in order to
windshield to expel all air between the suction cup create a vacuum between the suction cup and the
and the windshield. This is a very important step windshield. Be sure to turn the Large Vacuum Nut
to ensure proper operation of the mounting sys- as far as possible.
tem.

Quick Setup
M
U
Gap

U
C
VA
Tighten

4 At this point, the mounting bracket should stay

attached to the windshield when you remove your
hands.
If it doesn’t, inspect the rubber suction cup for
cracks or tears, and make sure the windshield sur-
face is clean.

41 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 41

 6 The mounting clip should be steady and should not 7 Insert the small end of the power cord into the DC
move easily. If this is not the case, slowly turn the jack, which is located on the back of the G-tech.
Small Tensioning Nut counter-clockwise just
enough to secure the mounting clip.
DC Power Jack
Note: You should only need to use the Small Ten-
sioning Nut for fine adjustments the first time you
mount the G-tech. After the initial mounting, you
would secure the clip by turning the Large Vacuum
Nut clockwise to tighten it.

Note: The clip should be completely rigid. A G-

tech which slips during a run will lead to inaccurate
results.

Loosen

42 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 8 Snap the G-tech into the mounting clip. 9 Plug the large end of the power cord into your
vehicle’s 12V cigarette lighter socket. The G-tech
Note: Do not move the mounting clip if you need will power on.
to adjust the orientation of the G-tech! This will dam-
age your mounting system and will not be covered Note: Some vehicles supply power to the 12V
under warranty. socket only when the ignition is in the ACCESSORY
position or when the vehicle is running.

Quick Setup
To safely re-orient the mounting clip for easier view-
ing, please refer to “Adjusting the bracket” on Note: The G-tech does not have an ON/OFF
page 149. switch. Please be sure to unplug the G-tech when exit-
ing your vehicle so as to not drain your vehicle’s bat-
tery.

43 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 43

44 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
G-Window

G-Window
This section will show you how to use the G-tech
to monitor your vehicle’s performance as you are
driving.

45 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 45

 Drag Strip Mode Basics
Put the G-tech into Drag Strip Mode (Figure 7 on page 15)
to measure the performance of your vehicle.

In Drag Strip Mode, you can use the G-tech:

Tachometer
Acceleration
• to monitor your acceleration and RPMs on the G-Win-
Bars
dow during everyday driving
Figure 10: Drag Strip Mode — G-Window screen
• to measure straight-line performance (1/4 mile, 0-60
MPH, etc.) on the Run Window
The G-Window has two main indicators:
When you first come up in Drag Strip Mode, the G-tech • Tachometer – displays vehicle RPMs
automatically begins measuring acceleration and RPMs, and
displays the G-Window (Figure 10): • Acceleration Bars – indicate forward and lateral (cor-
nering) G force in real time

46 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 G-Window: Tachometer G-Window: Acceleration Bars
The tachometer (Figure 11) indicates the vehicle redline and This section explains how to read the acceleration indicators
shiftlight shiftpoint that you entered during the Quick Setup on the G-Window.
Procedure.
Note: For the acceleration bars to be meaningful, you must

G-Window
The tach needle displays the vehicle RPMs in real-time. have already (1) calibrated your accelerometers (page 28) and
(2) done at least one acceleration run (page 52).
Note: When the G-tech is powered by the 12V DC wall
adapter, there is no RPM signal, and the tachometer reading is Note: If you have moved or re-oriented the G-tech mounting
meaningless. clip since your last forward acceleration run, the acceleration
bars will not be accurate! See page 49 for more information.

The acceleration bars show instantaneous forward and lateral

Shiftpoint vehicle acceleration.
Redline
Current RPMs
When you punch the accelerator, you will see a surge in the
forward acceleration indicator.

When you turn your vehicle, you will see a surge in the lateral
acceleration indicator.

Dominant acceleration is indicated by the dark (solid) bar; the

Figure 11: G-Window tachometer shaded (grey) bar indicates lesser acceleration.

47 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 47

 Figure 12 illustrates the major components of the accelera- • Primary Acceleration Direction – shows direction of
tion bars. dominant acceleration

Forward
Primary Figure 13 summarizes how to read the Primary Acceleration
Acceleration
Primary Acceleration Bar Direction Indicator.
Acceleration Value
Direction
If you see... It means you are...
Lateral
Acceleration
n
Bar Accelerating forward strongly

Braking strongly

Figure 12: Acceleration Bars & Primary Acceleration Turning left

Indicator

• Lateral Acceleration Bar – indicates amount of lateral Turning right

(cornering) Gs – like you see in car magazines for skid-
pad tests
Figure 13: Primary Acceleration Direction Indicator
• Forward Acceleration Bar – indicates amount of for-
ward Gs

• Primary Acceleration Value – shows amount of domi-

nant acceleration

48 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Example 1: Typical display during forward driving
Self-leveling the G-tech
Note: If the G-tech is mounted in your vehicle and the vehi-
cle is not moving, both acceleration bars should register very
close to 0.000g. If not, you need to “self-level” the G-tech.

G-Window
If your G-Window acceleration bars do not read zero when
your vehicle is stopped, you need to help the G-tech deter-
mine which direction is forward. We call this process “self-
leveling.” Strong Forward Acceleration

To self-level the G-tech, simply do an acceleration run • Forward Acceleration Bar is darkly shaded – indicates that
(page 52). You need only go far enough to trigger the G-tech forward acceleration is dominant, i.e. stronger than lateral
and start the E.T. clock... just a few feet. acceleration

• Primary Acceleration Direction is pointing up – indicates

Once you have done this, DO NOT move the G-tech that acceleration is forward (arrow would point down if you
mounting clip. Leave it in exactly the same mounting position braked hard)
that it was in when you did the acceleration run.
• Primary Acceleration Value reads 0.646g – indicates
When you get back to the G-Window, the G-tech’s accelera- amount of forward acceleration
tion bars should read very close to 0.000 when the vehicle is
• Lateral Acceleration Bar is lightly shaded and very small –
stopped. indicates the vehicle is not quite going in a straight line (if
vehicle were going perfectly straight ahead, there would be
no lateral acceleration, only forward)

49 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 49

 Example 2: Typical display accelerating out of a corner

Strong Lateral Acceleration

• Lateral Acceleration Bar is darkly shaded – indicates that

lateral (sideways) acceleration is dominant, i.e., stronger than
forward acceleration

• Primary Acceleration Direction is pointing left – indicates

that lateral acceleration (and turn) is to the left (arrow
would point right if vehicle were turning to the right)

• Primary Acceleration Value reads 0.644g – indicates the

amount of lateral acceleration, like a skidpad rating for a car

• Forward Acceleration Bar is lightly shaded and small – indi-

cates the vehicle is not experiencing significant lateral accel-
eration

50 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Acceleration Runs
Acceleration Runs
This section will show you how to use the G-tech
to measure your vehicle’s straight-line performance.

51 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 51

 Measuring Your Runs
To perform a timed measurement of your vehicle’s straight-
line acceleration, the G-tech has a special display called the .
Run Window. Figure 14: Staging Screen

You will use the Run Window to make measurements such Note: If your G-tech does not look like Figure 14, that
as: means it is configured to use the reaction time light tree. Please
refer to “Reaction Time / Start Mode” on page 128 for informa-
• 1/4 mile E.T. and speed tion on disabling the reaction time light tree.

• 0-60 MPH measurements At this point, the G-tech is making sure that the vehicle is
completely stopped. This process takes about 1 second, and
• braking distance measurements
is called “staging” in this manual.
• horsepower and torque measurements
After about 1 second, the Upper Left LED will begin blinking,
To get to the Run Window: and the screen will appear as in Figure 15. At this point, the
G-tech is ready for you to perform an acceleration run.
• Make sure that the G-tech is in Drag Strip Mode, dis-
playing the tachometer on the G-Window

• Press

You will initially see the Staging Screen as shown in Figure 14.

52 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Note: To avoid false starts, the G-tech requires a decent
Blinking
amount of “oomph” off the starting line, so don’t baby it! If your
G-tech doesn’t start its E.T. clock, try launching your car with
more force.

Acceleration Runs
During the acceleration run, the horsepower, torque, and
RPM indicators will be updated in real-time. The E.T. clock
will continue to run as well.

As you move forward and pass certain milestones, the G-

tech will automatically display them for you, as shown in Fig-
Figure 15: G-tech is staged and ready to go ure 16:

Note: If your G-tech continues to read “Staging...” for more

than 1 second after the screen in Figure 14 appears, the accel-
erometers need to be re-calibrated. Press to go back to the
G-Window screen with the tachometer and refer to “Calibrating 0-60 MPH time
Accelerometers” on page 28 for details on this procedure. 1/8 mile time
60ft time
To begin an acceleration run, press the throttle and acceler- E.T. clock
ate your vehicle briskly off the line. Tachometer

The G-tech will detect the forward acceleration and auto-

matically start the E.T. clock. The blinking LED will go off once Figure 16: G-tech screen during a run
you have launched successfully.
• Tachometer — indicates instantaneous vehicle RPMs

53 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 53

 • E.T. clock — indicates elapsed run time

The G-tech stores the time for each of the following mile-
Stopping the E.T. clock
stones as you pass them:
Simply letting off the gas and coasting for a brief period will
• 60 ft. time (displayed in real-time) cause the G-tech’s clock to stop automatically. In fact, any
one of the following conditions will cause the clock to stop:
• 330 ft. time

• 0-60 MPH time (displayed in real-time) User... presses button

Vehicle... coasts for a little over 1 second
• 660 ft. (1/8 mile) time and speed (displayed in real-time)
Speed... exceeds 300 MPH
• 1000 ft. time
Distance... exceeds 4000 ft.
• 1/4 mile time and speed
Elapsed Time... approaches 1 minute
Note: You don’t need to do a full 1/4 mile to get results. The
G-tech will automatically give you all results up to the point when Note: If you brake strongly at the end of a run, the E.T.
the run stopped. The next section describes the conditions that clock will continue running. This is to allow braking distance
cause a run to stop. measurements. If you are not interested in braking distance,
simply let off the throttle and coast until the E.T. clock stops.

When the E.T. clock stops, the display freezes and shows you
the latest measured values (Figure 17).

54 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 If you completed a full 1/4 mile run, the E.T. clock will show
the E.T.; otherwise, it will show the value when the clock
stopped.
Viewing Run Results
The HP value that is displayed represents the peak horse- When a run has completed and you press , you will see

Acceleration Runs
power measured during the run the Run Viewing Menu as in Figure 18.

For information on viewing peak HP & TQ, please refer to

“HP & Torque vs RPMs” on page 72.

Figure 18: G-tech Run Viewing Menu

. The G-tech automatically assigns a name to each run you

Figure 17: G-tech screen at completion of 1/4 mile run make. The name is based on the date and the run results.
Every run can be renamed, but for now let’s concentrate on
When you are done viewing the information on this screen, viewing the results.
press to leave the Run Window and view the Run View-
ing Menu. Since “Results” is already selected in the menu, simply press
to view the results for the run you just did.
Note: If you do not reach at least the 60 ft. mark during a
run, no results will be saved and you will be returned immedi- The first screen you will see (Figure 19) shows the 1/4 mile
ately to the G-Window instead. results, reaction time and rollout distance:

55 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 55

 After you have reviewed the run milestones, press to
return to the Run Viewing Menu (Figure 18).

There are other entries in the Run Viewing Menu that we will
explore soon, but for now let’s concentrate on the basic
functionality.
Figure 19: G-tech 1/4 mile results screen
Press to leave the Run Viewing Menu, and you will see
Note: In this example, we did not use the Reaction Time the Run Save Menu (Figure 21).
measuring feature (page 128). Thus, the “Reaction” field reads
0.000.

Note: If you do not travel a full 1/4 mile, the “E.T.” and
“Speed” fields will read 0.000.

Figure 21: Run Save menu

To view all the milestones from your run, press again to
get the Milestones screen (Figure 20).
At this point you can:

• Save the run with the title that was created automati-
cally by the G-tech (see “Saving a run / default name” on
page 58)

• Rename the run to a title that you prefer and then save
Figure 20: G-tech milestones screen
the run (see “Renaming and saving a run” on page 60)
Note: The G-tech will display “0.000” for any milestone • Discard this run altogether (i.e., discard the results)
that you did not reach during the run.

56 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 • View Run Again and return to the Run Viewing Menu

For now, let’s just discard these results, since we are just get-
Discarding Run Results
ting familiar with the G-tech. We will come back to the other
choices later in this manual. Discarding a run causes you to lose all the information about

Acceleration Runs
the run forever.

Therefore, when you select “Discard this run” from the Run
Save Menu, the G-tech requires that you confirm this deci-
sion (Figure 22).

Figure 22: Confirmation before discarding run

Press to confirm. The G-tech will discard all the results,

and return to the main window in Drag Strip Mode, the G-
Window.

57 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 57

 Saving a run / default name
As mentioned before, once you finish a run, you will press
to view the Run Viewing Menu (Figure 18 on page 55).
Figure 24: G-tech Run Save menu
You will be presented with a menu similar to Figure 23:
To save the run with the standard name, select “Save this
run” and press .

The G-tech will display a message as shown in Figure 25 as it

saves all the run data into its internal memory.

Figure 23: G-tech Run Viewing menu

To reach the Run Save Menu at this point, you can either
scroll down to the menu item labeled “Exit” and press , or
you can simply press . Now you will see the G-tech Run
Figure 25: G-tech display while run is being saved
Save menu (Figure 24):
Notice that the G-tech gives you an update on how much
free memory you have left after saving the run.

58 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 G-tech Stored Runs Capacity
The G-tech can store approximately 300 total seconds of

Acceleration Runs
racing. For example:
Figure 26: G-tech 30 file limit warning

Typical Run Length Typical Number of Runs Stored

Press to delete a file to make space for the run you just
10 seconds 30 runs performed. You will then be presented with the following
screen:
12 seconds 25 runs
15 seconds 20 runs
20 seconds 15 runs

This is a rough guideline — you should always be aware of

how much free storage memory you have left (See “Check- Figure 27: Choose a file to delete
ing Free Memory” on page 62.)
Press to cancel, or press to automatically replace the
The G-tech imposes a limit of 30 runs total that can be selected file with the new run.
stored, regardless of length. Enthusiasts who store many
short runs might encounter this situation. If you do encounter
this situation, you will see the following screen when you
attempt to store the 31st run:

59 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 59

 The G-tech Keyboard Screen Renaming and saving a run
Some of the G-tech features allow you to enter text. The G- By default, the G-tech auto-names every run that you save by
tech has an on-screen keyboard to allow this. using the date and run results to create the name.

However, there may be times where you wish to rename a

run with information (such as the track name, the vehicle,
• Use to move the selection cursor weather conditions, etc.) that is more meaningful to you.
around the keyboard
Refer back to the G-tech Run Save menu in Figure 24. How-
• Press to append the currently-selected character ever, instead of accepting the default name, this time we will
to the text in the entry area rename the run.
• To erase a letter in the entry area, move the selection
cursor to the back-arrow ( ), and press .
1 Select “Rename, then save”.
When done, press the button or move the cursor to
“Enter” on the keyboard, and press .

Entry Area

Keyboard

60 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Use the keyboard (page 60) to edit the run name. 4 To finish, either move the selection cursor to the
First you will erase the original name. “Enter” key on the keyboard and press , or sim-
ply press .

Acceleration Runs
3 Now use the keyboard (page 60) to enter the new
run name. 5 The run will be saved with the new name.

61 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 61

 Checking Free Memory 2 Press to bring up the Drag Strip Main Menu,
then press to select “Stored Runs.”
Since the G-tech allows you to store runs internally, over
time you may begin to use up the free memory.

Deleting stored runs (p. 96) will free up memory. Also, you
may want to download your runs to the PC (p. 99) for future
analysis before deleting them.

The length of the stored run determines how much memory 3 Press to choose “Select a run.”
it uses inside the G-tech (longer runs take up more memory).

You can use the following procedure to check how much

free memory you have left in your G-tech.

1 Start in Drag Strip Mode.

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 4 A screen such as this will appear (yours may look a
Saving a run / low on memory
little different). The top line of the display shows
you how much free memory you have.
Suppose you perform a run and then want to save the run,

Acceleration Runs
but the G-tech doesn’t have enough free memory.

In this situation, the G-tech will give you an opportunity to

delete one or more of your saved runs to make room for the
new run.

Should this occur, you will see a screen such as Figure 28.

Figure 28: Low on Memory Warning

At this point, you have two choices:

• If you decide you don’t want to save the run, press

• If you want to save the run, press to delete one or

more of your stored runs in order to make room

63 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 63

 If you press , a screen resembling Figure 29 will appear. If you press , the selected run will be deleted, and the
numbers will be updated accordingly.

Once you have deleted enough runs to make room for the
new run, the new run will automatically be saved.

Figure 29: Deleting runs to free memory

The top line (“required”) indicates how much room you

need to free up before saving the run. In this example, the G-
tech is indicating that you need to free up 3.1% more mem-
ory.

The line below it (“selected”) indicates how much room will

be freed if you delete the run that is currently selected. In this
example, the G-tech is indicating that if you delete the cur-
rent run (which is named “05/08/02 12.557-114.9”), it will
free up 4.2% of the memory.

Since 4.2% is larger than the required 3.1%, deleting this run
will allow you to save the new run.

Use the arrow keys to move to between different runs.

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 Analyzing Runs
Analyzing Runs
This section will show you how to use the G-tech
to review and analyze the details of your runs.

65 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 65

 Loading a Stored Run 3 Press to choose “Select a run.”

Use the following procedure to recall/load a stored run.

1 Start in Drag Strip Mode.

4 Use , , , and to select a run, and then

press to load it.

2 Press to bring up the Drag Strip Main Menu,

then press to select “Stored Runs.”

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 5 A menu such as this will appear. The name of the 7 Once the run has been loaded, the G-tech displays
run you selected is on the top line. Since “View this the Run Viewing Menu as shown below. Notice
run” is selected, press . that the name of the run you selected is on the top
line.

Analyzing Runs
6 While the run is being loaded, the G-tech displays a
screen such as this.

67 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 67

 Overview — Run Viewing Menu
The Run Viewing Menu (Figure 30) provides you with many
options for analyzing your runs.

Figure 30: Run Viewing Menu

You can choose to view your run immediately after complet-

ing it, and you can also recall it later.

Figure 31 on page 71 provides an overview of each option in

the Run Viewing Menu. Use it to become familiar with what
each option does and then choose the options that interest
you.

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 Run Viewing Menu

Menu Item Graph Provides Useful For... Go to...

Results 60 ft. time, 330 ft. time, 0-60 MPH • Measuring vehicle’s straight line p. 72
time, 1/8 mile E.T. and trap speed, performance

Analyzing Runs
1000 ft. time, 1/4 mile E.T. and trap
speed

HP & TQ Graph of Horsepower & Torque • Getting a “dyno plot” of your p. 72

vs RPM curves for a particular gear and vehicle
RPM range
• Determining the best shift point

69 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 69

 Menu Item Graph Provides Useful For... Go to...
HP vs time Graph of Horsepower output • Estimating effects of wind drag p. 74
throughout the run on your vehicle

• Looking at horsepower through-

out the run

RPM vs Graph of Vehicle RPMs throughout • Seeing where you shifted into p. 75
time the run each gear

• Measuring time between gear

shifts

• Detecting wheelspin
Speed vs Graph of Vehicle speed throughout • Measuring time to get from one p. 78
time the run speed to another speed (e.g. 0-
100 MPH, 50-70 MPH, 0-100-0
MPH, etc.)

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 Menu Item Graph Provides Useful For... Go to...
Gs vs time Graph of Forward acceleration • See how strong your car was p. 86
throughout the run pulling (accelerating) through-
out the run

• See how many negative Gs your

Analyzing Runs
car pulls while braking hard

• Detecting wheelspin
Braking Graph of Speed vs. Distance • Measuring how many feet it p. 88
Distance takes your vehicle to stop from a
given speed

Figure 31: G-tech Run Viewing Menu Capabilities

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 Results HP & Torque vs RPMs
The “Results” menu entry provides you with all the informa- One of the most exciting features of the G-tech is its ability
tion you’d get from a dragstrip timeslip, including milestones to measure and graph your vehicle’s horsepower and torque
such as 60 ft. time, 1/8 mile time and speed, etc. For runs per- against an RPM range.
formed with a reaction time start mode (p. 129), your reaction
time is given as well. The G-tech’s “HP & TQ vs RPM” menu entry provides you
with a graph of horsepower and torque in an RPM range.
For more information on the “Results” menu entry, please This is the “dyno plot” that everyone is accustomed to see-
refer to “Viewing Run Results” on page 55. ing.

After you perform a run, the G-tech analyzes the data and
then creates a graph based on the gear in which maximum
horsepower was attained.

Note: In order for you to get consistent HP & TQ graphs,

there is an optimal driving technique to use. This technique is
different than the driving technique you would use for a quick 1/
4 mile!

Please refer to “Horsepower, Torque & G-tech” on page 157 for

more information on optimal technique for performing horse-
power runs.

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 To view the horsepower (HP) and torque (TQ) graph for a Note: Vehicle weight is displayed because the G-tech uses
run, select the menu choice titled “HP & TQ vs RPM” and vehicle weight in the horsepower calculation. If you accidentally
press : entered the wrong weight, the calculated horsepower will be off.

Refer to “Horsepower, Torque & G-tech” on page 157 for more

information on vehicle weight and horsepower/torque calcula-

Analyzing Runs
tions.

To proceed to the HP & TQ vs RPM graph, press again.

You will see a screen (Figure 32) that gives you a summary of You will see a graph such the one shown in Figure 33. Of
the horsepower and torque measurements for the run. course the shape of the curve, as well as the numbers and
ranges, will be different for your vehicle.

Peak Torque Peak Horsepower Marker (+)

Marker (+) Horsepower Cursor
Torque Cursor

HP & TQ
RPM value
Figure 32: Horsepower / Torque summary at cursor

The G-tech calculates horsepower and torque throughout

Torque
the RPM range measured during the run and finds the peak Horsepower
value at
value at
value for each. It displays the values, along with the vehicle cursor RPMs cursor
weight, on the summary screen.
Figure 33: Graph of Horsepower & Torque vs RPMs

73 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 73

 You will notice a few things about the graph screen:

• The horsepower curve is drawn with a thick line; the HP vs time

torque curve is drawn with a thin line.
The “HP vs time” menu entry provides you with a graph of
• The peak horsepower and torque values are marked on horsepower throughout the run.
the graph with vertical bars.
This is not the optimal graph for analyzing horsepower. It will
• The peak horsepower and torque markers correspond
show artifacts around shiftpoints that are due to factors other
to the values seen on the Horsepower/Torque sum-
than engine horsepower. The graph will also show the
mary screen (Figure 32).
increasing effect of aerodynamic drag on the vehicle and the
• The graph has moveable cursors for HP and TQ. The corresponding lower “net horsepower” as the speed
increases.
cursors move left and right using and .

• The HP cursor rides along the HP curve, and the TQ To view the horsepower (HP) vs. time graph for a run, select
cursor rides along the TQ curve. the menu choice titled “HP vs time” and press :

• As the cursor moves, the “RPM,” “HP,” and “TQ” val-

ues are updated to reflect the current cursor position.

You will see a graph such the one shown in Figure 34. Of
course the shape of the curve, as well as the numbers and
ranges, will be different for your vehicle.

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 Cursor (current position)
RPM vs time

Horsepower
The “RPM vs time” menu entry provides you with a graph of
Change as vehicle RPMs throughout the run.
cursor

Analyzing Runs
moves
This is one of the most-used G-tech graphs.
Shifts Time
By looking at the data in this graph, you can find out:

Figure 34: Graph of horsepower vs time • how much time you spent in each gear

• what time each shift occurred

• As you move the cursor with and , the horse-
power and time values are adjusted to match the cursor. • how long each shift lasted
• Note the “dips” in measured horsepower on the 1-2 • the RPM range in each gear
shift and the 2-3 shift
• the RPMs (and implied gear) for each milestone
• This was a “3rd gear horsepower run” because the user
spent the most time in 3rd gear • whether you experienced wheelspin (look for a sudden
sharp rise in RPMs)
• Each tic mark on the horizontal axis represents 1 second
• whether you should stay in a particular gear longer for
• Each tic mark on the vertical axis represents 10 HP better results (for example, maybe you’re shifting into
4th gear just before the 1/4 mile mark and would actu-
ally benefit from remaining in 3rd gear through the finish
line)

75 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 75

 To view the RPM vs. time graph for a run, select the menu
Cursor (current position)
choice titled “RPM vs time” and press : 60ft. mark

Both

RPMs
change as
cursor
moves

Milestone Time
Region
In order to give you the feel and excitement of the run, the
RPMs are replayed in real-time, just as they were happening
Figure 35: Graph of RPMs vs Time
during the run. This means that if you did a 15-second run, it
will take 15 seconds to draw the RPM plot. During RPM
replay, the G-tech illuminates an LED at any point where the On this graph, and move the cursor along the RPM
shiftlights were on during the run. curve.

Note: To finish the replay quickly, rather than in real-time, As the cursor moves, the RPM value and timestamp value
adjust to reflect the values at the cursor position.
simply press the button while it is being drawn.

Each tic mark on the horizontal axis represents 1 second.

Once the graph is fully drawn, you will see a graph such the
one shown in Figure 35.
Each tic mark on the vertical axis represents 1000 RPM.
Note: Your graph will look different due to your driving style
and vehicle.

76 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Launched here (clock starts)
60 mph 1000 ft.
330 ft. 1/4 mile
1/8 mile
RPMs rise 60 ft.
after launch

Analyzing Runs
RPMs drop
during launch

Figure 36: RPMs vs Time — launch Figure 37: RPMs vs Time — milestones

You will see a tall vertical bar on the graph that marks the You will see a plus sign (+) on the graph at each place where
launch where the G-tech began timing. a milestone occurred (Figure 37). When you move the cur-
sor over a milestone marker, the milestone region will be
Thus you can see what your RPMs were at launch, and even updated with the name of the milestone and its timestamp.
for a brief period before launch.
Note: You must move the cursor over a milestone (from
Generally you will see a dip in RPMs at the launch, as the either direction) to update the milestone region. If you move the
clutch engages and loads the engine. cursor near another milestone, but not over it, the milestone
region will not be updated.
Note: The launch is perhaps the most crucial part of a run.
By using the G-tech to analyze graphs of your RPMs (p. 75) and Assuming that you let off the throttle during a shift, note that
your forward acceleration (p. 86), you can perfect your launch by placing the cursor at each peak in the graph, you can
technique and improve your times! determine the time and RPM value where you shifted into
each gear.

77 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 77

 Figure 38 shows how to use this graph to analyze the time
spent in each gear and how long each shift took.
Speed vs time
Start of shifts (clutch disengaged, let off
throttle, RPMs drop) The “Speed vs time” menu entry provides you with a graph
3rd gear of speed throughout the run.
2nd gear
You can use this graph to measure things such as:

1st gear
• time to get from one speed to another speed (e.g., 0-50
MPH, 40-60 MPH, etc.)
End of shifts (clutch re-engaged, re-apply
throttle, RPMs rise again)
• time to accelerate from 0 to a certain speed, and brake
. to 0 again (e.g., 0-100-0 test)
Figure 38: RPMs vs time — shifts and gears
• time to brake to a halt from a particular speed (e.g., 60-
You can determine how long a gear shift took by doing the 0 braking time)
following:
To view the speed vs. time graph for a run, select the menu
• place the cursor at a peak RPM value for one gear and choice titled “Speed vs time” and press :
make note of the time

• move the cursor to the right just until the RPMs begin
rising again and make note of the time

The difference between these times is the shift time. Your

vehicle actually slows a bit during shifts, so keep this time to a
minimum!

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 You will see a graph such as the one shown in Figure 39. Of A plus sign (+) marks where each 10 MPH increment
course the shape of the curve, as well as the numbers and occurred on your run. Whenever you move the cursor past a
milestones, will be different for your vehicle. plus sign, the numbers on the bottom of the graph are
updated to reflect the time to get to that speed from 0 MPH.
Cursor 80MPH marker
70 MPH marker For example, when you move the cursor over the 7th plus

Analyzing Runs
sign, the numbers reflects the 0-70 MPH time.

Note: The speed milestone indicator will not change until

Speed

the cursor rolls over a different 10 MPH marker.

Time Time at cursor

Speed at cursor

Figure 39: Graph of Speed vs time

You can use and to move the cursor on the graph.

As you move the cursor, the current speed and elapsed time
indicators are updated to match the cursor position.

Each tic mark on the horizontal axis marks a 1-second differ-

ence.

Each tic mark on the vertical axis marks a 10 MPH difference.

79 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 79

 Measuring 0-40 MPH, etc.
1 Perform an acceleration run, making sure you hit
Suppose you want to measure the time it takes you to reach the speeds you want to measure.
a certain speed (say, 40 MPH) from a standstill. This section In this example, we are measuring 0-40 MPH, so
will show you how to do it. we made sure the driver reached 40 MPH during
the acceleration run.
Note: In this example, we measure 0-40 MPH time, but
you can use the same procedure to measure the time it takes to
reach any speed you wish.

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 2 To view the Speed vs. Time graph, select the menu
Measuring 50-70 MPH, etc.
choice titled “Speed vs time” and press :

Suppose you want to measure a vehicle’s acceleration at

highway speeds (sometimes referred to as a “passing test”).

Analyzing Runs
This test is often done in the vehicle’s top gear (5th or 6th
gear in most vehicles) to measure how well the vehicle can
accelerate on the highway without downshifting.

3 On this graph, notice how the speed (vertical axis)

You may also wish to use this feature to measure the same
interval (e.g. 50-70 MPH) in several different gears. For exam-
rises for a while, and then falls again. This is because ple, many vehicles can cover 50-70 MPH in 2nd gear, 3rd
the vehicle braked to a complete stop at the end of gear, 4th gear, and 5th gear. This measurement will tell you
the run. which single gear is the best choice for this speed range.
For now (0-40 MPH), we only care about the rising
part of the graph, during acceleration from 0 to 40
Let’s suppose you want to measure your 50-70 MPH time.
MPH.
This example will show you how to use the G-tech to do it.
Use the keys to move the cursor over the
40 MPH milestone on the rising part of the graph. Note: You can measure any interval you wish using the pro-
The 0-40 MPH time is displayed. cedure described below -- we have just chosen 40-60 MPH for
this particular example.

81 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 81

 2 To view the Speed vs. Time graph, select the menu
choice titled “Speed vs time” and press :
1 Perform an acceleration run, making sure you hit
the speeds you want to measure.
In this example, we are measuring 40-60 MPH, so
we made sure the driver reached 60 MPH during
the acceleration run.

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 3 On this graph, notice how the speed (vertical axis) 4 Now use the key to move the cursor over the
rises for a while, and then falls again. This is because 60 MPH milestone on the rising part of the graph.
the vehicle braked to a complete stop at the end of Since the cursor is now on 60 MPH, the 40-60
the run. MPH time is displayed.
For measuring the 40-60 MPH acceleration time,

Analyzing Runs
we only care about the rising part of the graph, dur-
ing acceleration from 40 to 60 MPH.
Use the keys to move the cursor over the
40 MPH milestone on the rising part of the graph.
Press and a box will be drawn around the 40
MPH milestone.
Since the cursor is still on 40 MPH, a 40-40 MPH
time of 0.000 is displayed.

83 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 83

 This ensures the only light that will come on during your
run is the 60 MPH speedmark light.
Measuring 0-100-0, etc.
To do the 0-60-0 test:
Suppose you want to perform the classic 0-100-0 MPH
timed measurement... how quickly can your vehicle reach 100
MPH, and how quickly can it bring the vehicle back to a stop? 1 Launch your vehicle and start an acceleration run
(page 52).
The G-tech provides you with all the tools you need to per-
form this test!

This section will show you how to perform this measure-

ment.

Note: In this example, we demonstrate measuring

0 - 60MPH - 0 MPH. You can measure “0 - <any speed> - 0”
you wish using the procedure described below -- we have just
chosen 0 - 60MPH - 0 MPH for this particular example.

When doing a test like this, we recommend:

• disabling all distance marks (page 106)

• disabling your shiftlights (page 110)

Next, set the speed mark to the desired speed (in this case,
60 MPH - see page 105 for details on setting the speed
mark).

84 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Keep accelerating until the speedmark light comes 3 Immediately brake hard, all the way to a stop.
on.

Analyzing Runs
4 Keep the vehicle at a stop until the E.T. clock stops
counting (about one second once you have com-
pletely stopped).

5 Bring up the “Speed vs time” graph for this run.

85 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 85

 6 Notice the “upside down V” shape to the curve.
Gs (Acceleration) vs time
Use the key to move the cursor all the way to
the right hand side of the screen. In this case, the
driver actually went up to 61 MPH, so we get the Gs (pronounced like “Geez”) are a measure of acceleration.
0-61-0 time, which is displayed on the bottom line.
The “Gs vs time” menu entry provides a graph of forward
acceleration (“Gs”) vs time. Larger G values indicate stronger
acceleration.

This graph is useful for seeing how hard your vehicle was pull-
ing when it was accelerating (positive Gs) and how hard it
was decelerating while braking (negative Gs.)

To view the Gs vs. time graph for a run select the menu
choice titled “Gs vs time” and press :

You will see a graph such the one shown in Figure 40.

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 Cursor Accelerating
Braking
(Positive Gs)
(Negative Gs)

Accelertation(Gs)
0Gs

Analyzing Runs
Vehicle
stopped
(0Gs)
Shifts
Time Time at cursor (Gs drop)
Forward Gs at cursor

Figure 40: Graph of Gs vs time Figure 41: Braking and accelerating

Some things to note about this graph: • When the G plot is above the horizontal axis, it means
the vehicle is accelerating.
• As with other graphs, you can use and to move
the cursor. The G-reading and timestamp always reflect • When the G plot is below the horizontal axis, it means
their respective readings at the current cursor position. the vehicle is decelerating (e.g. coasting, braking).

• Each tic mark on the horizontal axis marks 1 second • The brief dips you see in the graph are shift points.
When you shift, you temporarily remove power, and
• Each tic mark on the vertical axis marks 0.1G of acceler- this causes the vehicle to decelerate briefly, until you re-
ation engage the next gear.

Figure 41 highlights some other useful information on the • In a very powerful vehicle, or a traction-limited vehicle,
graph. you may also spot dips in acceleration that are not due
to shifts.

87 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 87

 These are due to more power being applied to the
wheels than can be handled. The net result is that the
wheels spin and the vehicle does not accelerate.
Braking Distance
• The large dip you see at the end of the graph is hard The “Braking Distance” graph is useful for seeing how many
braking at the end of the run. feet it took your vehicle to stop from a specific speed.

• Notice at the end of the graph, Gs are zero. This is For example, you can use this graph to determine 60-0 MPH
because the vehicle came to a stop. Hence there is no braking distance. This is a common measurement in automo-
acceleration or deceleration. bile reviews.

As another example, when upgrading the brakes or tires on

your car, you might be interested in a “before” and “after”
comparison of your braking distance.

This graph also allows you to view intermediate braking

results, such as 100MPH - 40MPH, or any other endpoints
you choose.

Note: If you do not brake to a complete stop at the end of

your run, and let the E.T. clock stop, the data on this graph will
not be very useful to you.

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 2 To view the braking distance graph, select the
menu choice titled “Braking distance” and press :
1 Perform an acceleration run, ending the run by
braking hard to a complete stop. Make sure that
the E.T. clock continues to run until the vehicle is com-

Analyzing Runs
pletely stopped. If the E.T. clock stops before the
vehicle has come to a stop, your results will not be
meaningful.

89 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 89

 3 You will see a graph such the one shown below. 4 As the cursor is moved, the “current speed” and
On the vertical axis, the tic marks identify 10 MPH “distance to stop” fields are updated. Each time the
increments. cursor is rolled over a plus sign on the graph, the
Each plus sign (+) identifies a 10 MPH milestone braking milestone information is updated for that
during vehicle braking. milestone. In the following graph:
The cursor is “live” and can be moved along the
plot with and . • At the cursor, “current speed” is 29.4 MPH,
and “distance to stop” is 45ft. Thus, it took 45
Cursor
ft. to stop from 29.4 MPH.
30MPH 20MPH
• The braking milestone information indicates
10MPH
that it took 47 feet to brake from 30 MPH.
Speed(MPH)

Moving the cursor further to the right would

give braking distance from 20 MPH, 10 MPH,
etc.

Cursor at 29.4 MPH

Distance (ft.) 30MPH

Braking Milestone
Information

Current Speed Distance to Stop

at Cursor from 29.4 MPH

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 For intermediate braking results (e.g. 50-20 MPH), use the
button while on a milestone, as shown in the following 2 Move the cursor to the right until it reaches the 20
example. MPH milestone. The G-tech displays the braking
distance from 50-20 MPH.

1 Move the cursor to the upper milestone, and press

Analyzing Runs
. In this example we will measure 50-20 MPH
braking distance, so we put the cursor on the 50
MPH milestone and press . A box appears
around the milestone, indicating that braking dis-
tance will be measured relative to 50 MPH.
3 Move the cursor to the left until it reaches the 60
MPH milestone. The G-tech displays the braking
distance from 60-50 MPH.
Notice that in all cases, the bottom line of informa-
tion always reflects the braking distance from the
current cursor position to 0 MPH.

91 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 91

92 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 Stored Runs
Stored Runs
This section will show you how to rename, delete,
and download your stored runs to a PC.

Refer to “Saving a run / default name” on page 58

for more information on storing runs in your G-
tech.

93 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 93

 Recalling a Stored Run Reviewing Stored Run
Once you have stored a run in the G-tech, you can recall it at Once you have recalled a run from the G-tech (page 66),
any time and examine its details. you can review the run as follows:

Please refer back to “Loading a Stored Run” on page 66 for

details on loading (recalling) a stored run. 1 Select “View this run” and press .

Once the run has been loaded, you can do any of the follow-
ing:

• View the run results (milestones, E.T., graphs, etc.)

See “Reviewing Stored Run” on page 94.

• Rename the run

See “Renaming A Stored Run” on page 95. 2 While the run is being loaded, you will see a screen
similar to the following:
• Delete the run from the G-tech’s internal memory
See “Deleting a Stored Run” on page 96.

• Download the run to the PC

See “Downloading A Stored Run” on page 97.

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 3 At this point, the Run Viewing Menu will appear as
Renaming A Stored Run
shown.
For details on using the Run Viewing menu, please
refer to “Overview — Run Viewing Menu” on Once you have recalled a stored run from the G-tech
page 68. (page 66), you can rename it as follows:

Stored Runs
1 Select “Rename this run” and press .

2 At this point, the procedure is the same as renam-

ing a new run. Please refer to “Renaming and saving
a run” on page 60.

95 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 95

 Deleting a Stored Run 2 The following screen will appear. Press if you
want to delete the run, or if not.
Once you have recalled a stored run from the G-tech
(page 66), you can choose to delete it from the G-tech’s
internal memory. This will free up memory so that you can
store other runs.

The procedure to delete a recalled run is as follows:

1 Select “Delete this run” and press .

96 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Use the following procedure to send the current run to a
Downloading A Stored Run computer:

Once you have recalled a stored run from the G-tech

(page 66), you can transfer it from the G-tech to a computer.
1 Select “Download to PC” and press .

Note: Transferring a run to the computer does not delete it

Stored Runs
from the G-tech.

Note: Before transferring a run to the computer, you should

connect the serial cable between the G-tech and the computer.
Refer to “G-tech-Computer Connection” on page 157 for more
information on connecting the G-tech to a computer. You should 2 You will see a screen such as this. The computer
also ensure that the G-tech Performance Analysis System Soft- and the G-tech will “see” each other and begin
ware (PASS) is ready to receive data from the G-tech. Further communicating back and forth.
instructions are provided with the PC software. You can press at any time to abort the process,
even if the G-tech has not begun the transfer.

97 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 97

 Deleting ALL Stored Runs 2 Press to bring up the Drag Strip Main Menu,
then press to select “Stored Runs”.
At some point, you may wish to delete all of the stored runs
in your G-tech.

Note: This is a drastic step that will cause you to lose all
information about the runs in your G-tech. Be sure this is what
you want to do before proceeding!

Use the following procedure to delete all the stored runs on 3 Choose “Delete all” and press .
your G-tech.

1 Start in Drag Strip Mode.

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 4 You will see this screen.
Downloading All Stored Runs
To proceed with the delete, press .
To cancel this and keep all your runs intact, press
At some point, you may wish to download all of the stored
.
runs in your G-tech.

Perhaps you want to analyze all your runs in more detail on a

Stored Runs
computer, or perhaps you just want to transfer all your runs
to a computer so you can delete them on the G-tech.

Note: Before transferring a run to the computer, you should

5 To finish the process, press . To cancel this and

connect the serial cable between the G-tech and the computer.
Refer to “G-tech-Computer Connection” on page 157 for more
keep all your runs intact, press . information on connecting the G-tech to a computer. You should
also ensure that the G-tech PASS PC software is ready to receive
data from the G-tech. Further instructions are provided with the
PC software.

Note: Transferring runs to the PC does not remove them

from the G-tech.

99 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 99

 Use the following procedure to transfer all the stored runs on
your G-tech: 3 Choose “Download all to PC” and press .

1 Start in Drag Strip Mode.

4 The following screen will appear. You can cancel

the transfer at any time by pressing .

2 Press to bring up the Drag Strip Main Menu,

then press to select “Stored Runs”.

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 Advanced Features
Advanced Features
This section will show you how to use some of the
more advanced features of the G-tech.

101 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 101

 Item U.S. unit Metric unit
Setting U.S. or Metric Mode Distance inches, feet cm, meters
Power horsepower kilowatts
The G-tech can display units in U.S. mode (feet, pounds,
miles per hour, etc.) or Metric mode (meters, kilograms, kilo- Torque ft-lbs newton-meters
meters per hour, etc.).
When performing and viewing runs, there are also corre-
Set the G-tech to operate in whichever mode you prefer to
sponding measurements in both modes:
view data.

Note: When you switch between metric and U.S. modes, it U.S. Mode Measurement Metric Mode Measurement
affects only how the data are displayed, not how the data are 60 ft time 20m time
saved inside the G-tech.
330 ft time 100m time
In other words, you can switch between metric and U.S. modes 1/8 mile time and speed 200m time and speed
at any time, without losing any configuration information or vehi-
cle measurements. 1000 ft time 300m time
1/4 mile time and speed 400m time and speed
The following table lists the units for each configuration item
in the G-tech, both in U.S. mode and Metric mode: 0-60 MPH time 0-100 km/h time

Item U.S. unit Metric unit The G-tech measures and stores both full sets of measure-
ments on every run, regardless of which mode you are in. In
Weight lbs kilograms other words, even if you perform a run in U.S. mode, the G-
Speed miles per hour kilometers per hour tech is also monitoring and storing all the metric milestones
as well, and vice versa.

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 This means that now enthusiasts all over the globe can com- Use the following procedure to switch between U.S. mode
pare results with each other, just by switching modes after a and Metric mode in the G-tech.
run is completed!

Advanced Features
For example, let’s suppose an enthusiast named Joe is in U.S. Start in Configuration Mode.
Mode when he does all of his acceleration runs, and a enthu-
siast named Simon is in Metric Mode for his runs.

All Joe and Simon have to do to compare their runs against

each other (“apples to apples”) is put their G-techs into the
same mode (U.S. or Metric) before they review their runs.

When Joe compares his 100M time against Simon’s 100M

time, they are comparing exactly when each of them crossed 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press .
the 100M point.

Joe and Simon can also compare U.S. mode milestones sim-
ply by putting their G-techs in U.S. mode.

103 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 103

 3 Scroll down and select “US or Metric” and press 4 Choose U.S. Mode or Metric Mode.
. The asterisk (*) indicates the active choice.
/ moves cursor.
makes selection.
When done, select “Exit” and press .

Note: In this example, Metric Mode is the cur-

rent/active mode, as indicated by the * next to it. U.S.
mode will be activated only if the user highlights “US
Mode” and then presses .

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 Setting the Speed Mark 2 Select “Speed Mark”.

Have you ever wondered at what point you reach a certain

Advanced Features
speed during an acceleration run?

With the G-tech’s Speed Mark feature, now you will know.

Simply set the Speed Mark value to whatever speed you

want, and then during an acceleration run, the lower left LED 3 Enter your desired speed mark by using the arrow
will illuminate for 1 second when your vehicle reaches that keys. Press when done, or press to abort.
speed.

1 Start in Configuration Mode and Select “Run

Parameters”.

Note: The speed mark can be set to any value in the range
20-150 MPH. It cannot be turned off completely. However, set-
ting it to 150 MPH will effectively turn it off in a vehicle that
doesn’t reach 150 MPH.

105 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 105

 For example, if you have all three distance marks enabled,
and you do a full 1/4 mile acceleration run, the upper right
Setting the Distance Marks LED turns on three times during the run.

Have you ever wondered at what point you reach a certain

distance during an acceleration run? 1 Start in Configuration Mode and select “Run
Parameters”.
With the G-tech’s Distance Marks feature, now you will
know.

There are three distance marks:

• 60 ft. mark

2
• 1/8 mile mark
Select “Distance Marks”.
• 1/4 mile mark

Each of these marks can be individually enabled or disabled.

When you have a distance mark enabled, and the vehicle has
reached that distance, the G-tech illuminates the upper right
LED for one second.

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 3 Use and to move the cursor to the desired Shiftlights Overview
speed mark. Pressing toggles the speed mark on
and off. An asterisk (*) next to a mark means it is
In Drag Strip Mode, the G-tech is always monitoring vehicle

Advanced Features
on.
RPMs, and can be programmed to turn on LEDs (shiftlights)
When done, select “Exit” and press .
when an RPM level called the “shiftpoint” has been reached.

This is an individual preference and depends on your driving

style and your goals.

You determine the RPM level where the shiftlights come on,
and you can also enable/disable the shiftlights at will.

As you analyze your runs with the G-tech and measure your
horsepower and torque vs. RPMs (p. 72), you may determine
that the best shiftpoint is not at vehicle redline, but at a differ-
ent value.

The shiftlights feature can help with this by turning on at an

RPM value you’ve set, so that you shift for optimal power
delivery.

Since no one can shift instantaneously, the G-tech gradually

prepares you for the shift by illuminating the shiftlights in
three sequential stages as you approach the shiftpoint. This

107 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 107

 sequential activation allows you to anticipate when to shift.
Our research indicates that this improves consistency. 2 5000 RPM: Shiftlights first turn on.

The following example illustrates how the shiftlights work.

Note: In this example, the shiftpoint is set to 5500 RPM.

Note: This example shows the shiftpoints operating while on

the G-Window. The shiftlights also operate while you are per-
forming a timed acceleration run as well. Many users will find
the shiftlights extremely valuable during a run.

1 4500 RPM: Shiftlights are off.

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 3 5250 RPM: Shiftlights are more intense. 4 5500 RPM: Shiftlights fully on and blinking rapidly.

Advanced Features
109 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 109
 Enabling / Disabling Shiftlights 3 Select “Shiftlights”.

Use the following procedure for enabling/disabling the

Shiftlight LEDs. (Refer to page 21 for information on setting
the RPM shiftlight shiftpoint.)

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

4 Select On or Off by using and , then press
to make your selection. An asterisk (*) indicates
your current choice. Select “Exit” and press
when done.

2 Select “Vehicle Data”.

110 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Lower Limit Upper Limit
Cornering Lights Overview 0.55G 0.80G

0.00G 0.55G 0.80G

In Drag Strip Mode, the G-tech is always monitoring lateral

Advanced Features
acceleration, also referred to as “cornering Gs.”

The G-tech can be programmed to turn on “Cornering Cornering Lights Cornering Lights Cornering Light
Lights” when a lateral G-force threshold called the “Lower G Off Blinking Blinking Rapidly
Limit” has been reached. (Slow Fast)

The cornering lights allow you to anticipate when you are Figure 42: Cornering Lights Behavior
getting close to the limits of your car.
You can set the Upper and Lower G Limits to whatever
When the cornering Gs first reach the Lower G Limit, the value makes sense for you and your vehicle. You also have
Cornering Lights begin to blink slowly. the ability to enable/disable the Cornering Lights completely.

There is also a value called the “Upper G Limit” that marks WARNING: Adverse weather conditions can severely impair
the point where the cornering lights are blinking very rapidly. a vehicle’s cornering capabilities. Please use caution when set-
ting Cornering Light limits.
As the cornering Gs approach the Upper G Limit, the Cor-
nering Lights blink more quickly. The quicker the blinking, the WARNING: Do not rely on the Cornering Lights for indica-
more Gs you are pulling. tions of tire adhesion/safety. Many factors can affect the G
limit of your vehicle, such as tire pressure and wear, tempera-
Figure 42 shows how the Cornering Lights react to different ture, aerodynamic drag, bank of road/track, road condition,
levels of cornering G forces. and others. The G-tech should not used as the only basis for
driving decisions.

111 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 111

 WARNING: There is a slight lag between when the G-tech
senses lateral Gs and when the cornering lights are activated.
This is intentional and is done to increase immunity to tran-
Setting the Cornering Lights
sient lateral acceleration surges that are unrelated to the
steady-state driving conditions. Acquaint yourself with the G- This section describes how to set the Upper and Lower G
tech’s cornering lights behavior on a familiar track and in a Limits for the Cornering Lights.
familiar vehicle.

WARNING: The cornering lights rely on accurate measure- 1 Start in Configuration Mode.
ments of lateral (cornering) acceleration. It is important that
when your vehicle is at rest on the G-Window, both acceler-
ation bars should indicate little or no acceleration. If this is not
the case, please refer to “Self-leveling the G-tech” on
page 49.

Note: The cornering lights will not be accurate on banked

turns.
2 Select “Vehicle Data”.

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 3 Select “Cornering Lights”. 5 You will see the following screen.
This screen is where you set the Upper G Limit for
the Cornering Lights.

Advanced Features
Use to change the value.
The value can range from 0.05G to 9.99G.
Press when done.

4 Select “Set Limits”.

113 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 113

 Please use the following procedure for enabling / disabling
6 You will see the following screen. the Cornering Lights.
This screen is where you set the Lower G Limit for
the Cornering Lights.
Use to change the value. 1 Select On or Off by using and press to
The value can range from 0.01G to just a little make your selection.
below the Upper Limit you set in the previous step.
Press when done. An asterisk (*) indicates the current choice.

Select “Exit” and press when done.

7 You will see the following warning screen.

Read the text, and then press when done.

114 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Displaying Firmware Version 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press .

The firmware version in the G-tech indicates how recently

Advanced Features
your G-tech has been updated with new code.

You can check the Tesla Electronics website at:

http://www.gtechpro.com
to see if newer G-tech firmware (code) is available.
3 Select “Firmware Version” and press .
Also, if you ever call Tech Support, you will most likely be
asked what version of firmware is on your G-tech. This infor-
mation assists in the troubleshooting process.

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

115 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 115

 4 A screen such as this will appear and provide infor-
Resetting to Factory Defaults
mation on the G-tech firmware version. Your
screen may differ, depending on which version of
firmware you are running. Press to exit. In some cases you may want to restore the G-tech to the
condition it was in when it was shipped from the factory.

This will clear out all the configuration information and stored
runs.

Note: Resetting the G-tech to Factory Defaults is a drastic

step that causes you to lose all the information that is stored on
the G-tech. Perform this step only if you are sure that you want
to delete all configuration information and stored runs!

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

116 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press . 4 Because this is such a drastic step, a screen such as
this will appear. Press to continue the process,
or to cancel.

Advanced Features
3 Select “Reset To Defaults” and press .

5 One final level of confirmation is needed before

the reset. Press to completely reset the G-tech,
or to cancel.

Note: After you have performed this step, you will need to
perform the steps in the Quick Setup section again (page 66)
before using your G-tech!

117 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 117

 have problems getting the two devices to communicate,
lower the baud rate on both and try again.
Serial Port Baud Rate
The G-tech uses a serial port to communicate with external 1 Start in Configuration Mode.
devices such as your PC.

The “baud rate” determines how fast the G-tech communi-

cates with the computer. The higher the baud rate, the faster
the G-tech sends and receives data.

Some PCs cannot keep up with the G-tech at high baud

rates, however. Therefore, the G-tech allows you adjust the
baud rate so that you can match it to a baud rate on the 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press .
computer that works reliably.

When using the serial port, start by using the fastest baud
rate (115,200) on both the computer and the G-tech. If you

118 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 3 Select “Serial Port Settings” and press . Adjusting the LCD Contrast
The G-tech uses a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) to display

Advanced Features
information.

You may want to adjust the contrast on the LCD due to per-
sonal preferences, environmental conditions, etc.

4 Use to select the desired baud rate and Use the following procedure to adjust your LCD’s contrast.
press . The current baud rate is indicated with
an asterisk (*). Select “Exit” and press
ished.
when fin-
1 Start in Configuration Mode.

119 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 119

 2 Select “Gtech Setup” and press . 4 You will see a screen similar to the screen shown
here.
Use to adjust the contrast on the LCD.
When done, press to save changes and exit.

3 Select “LCD Contrast” and press .

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 Multiple Vehicles
Multiple Vehicles
This section will show you how to use the G-tech
with up to 4 different vehicles.

121 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 121

 Multiple Vehicle Usage Vehicle-Specific Data
Many G-tech enthusiasts will want to use the G-tech in multi- The first time you select a vehicle in the G-tech (page 123),
ple vehicles. you must enter in the information specific to that vehicle
before using it.
Perhaps you have several vehicles that you want to compare
against each other... or maybe you have a friend with a vehi- This is a list of the information that you must enter for each
cle that you want to benchmark. vehicle that you use with the G-tech:

With the G-tech’s ability to support up to four vehicles, you • Vehicle name (page 124)
just tell the G-tech about the information that is specific to
• Vehicle weight (page 23)
each vehicle.
• RPM calibration (page 25)
When you move the G-tech to another vehicle, just select
that vehicle in the G-tech. The G-tech adjusts everything • Engine Redline (page 20)
based on the vehicle you have selected.
• Shiftlights Shiftpoint RPM value (page 21)

• Shiftlights On/Off setting (page 110)

• Cornering Lights G Limits (page 112)

• Cornering Lights On/Off setting (page 112)

122 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Selecting a Vehicle 3 Scroll down and select “Choose Vehicle” and press
.

As mentioned earlier, the G-tech stores information specific

to as many as four different vehicles.

Multiple Vehicles
Use the procedure below to select a different vehicle.

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

4 You will see a screen similar to the following.
An asterisk (*) identifies the active vehicle.
To select a different vehicle, move the highlight bar
to the desired vehicle and press . The G-tech
will immediately re-configure itself to use the infor-
mation for the new vehicle and display the Config-
uration Mode main menu.
To exit without selecting a different vehicle, either
2 Select “Vehicle Data” and press . press the button, or go down to “Exit,” and
press .

123 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 123

 Renaming a Vehicle 2 Select “Vehicle Data” and press .

In the Quick Setup Procedure earlier in the manual, you may

remember setting parameters such as vehicle weight and red-
line. In fact, you were setting information for the first vehicle.

To rename a vehicle, first select the vehicle (page 123) to

make it the active vehicle.
3 You will see a screen similar to this one. In this
Let’s go ahead and rename the vehicle to something mean- example, the user has changed the name to “MUS-
ingful for your vehicle. TANG 66”.

1 Start in Configuration Mode.

124 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 4 Scroll down to “Change Vehicle Name” and press
Showing the Active Vehicle
.

Use the procedure below to determine which vehicle is cur-

rently active in your G-tech.

Multiple Vehicles
1 Start in Configuration Mode.

5 The G-tech keyboard screen (page 60) will appear.

• Enter the new name for the vehicle using the

keyboard.

• Vehicle names can be up to 15 characters

long
2 Select “Vehicle Data” and press .

125 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 125

 3 The active/current vehicle is indicated by name
across the top of the display.

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 Pro Features
Pro Features
This section will show you how to use the most
advanced features of the G-tech.

127 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 127

 Generally when you are at the drag strip with a real Timing
Tree setup, you do not want the G-tech displaying a reaction
Reaction Time / Start Mode time light tree.

If you have been to a drag strip before, you are probably Instead, you want to launch based on the Christmas Tree at
familiar with the “Timing Tree” (a.k.a. “Christmas Tree”) at the track. In these cases, you would configure the G-tech for
the starting line. “No Tree” mode launches.

(For more information, refer to “Drag Strip Concepts” on The following steps describe how to configure the G-tech for
page 147.) a specific Reaction Time mode.

If you want to practice your launch technique or improve

your reaction time when you are not at the track, the G- 1 Start in Configuration Mode and select “Run
tech’s Reaction Time modes can help you perfect your tech- Parameters”.
nique.

You can choose from a Full Tree (also known as the “Sports-
man’s Tree”) or Pro Tree, with 0.5 second or 0.4 second tim-
ing.

With a Full Tree, the three amber lights turn on sequentially,

and with a Pro Tree, all three amber lights turn on simulta-
neously.

128 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Select “Reaction time.”
Using the Timing Tree Modes
The following information describes the entire start proce-
dure if you use any of the four Timing Tree modes. This
example assumes the user has set the mode to “Full Tree (0.5

Pro Features
second).”

3 Select the mode you want. The line with the aster-
Note: The colors “amber” and “green” refer to the actual
track light colors.
isk (*) next to it is the active choice.
To change the mode, move the highlighted selec-
tion bar to the choice you want, and press . The 1 Start in Drag Strip Mode.
asterisk will then move to the choice you have just
made, indicating that it is now active.
In this example, a Full Tree with 0.5 second timing
is the current choice as indicated by the asterisk (*)
next to it.
If you were to press , the mode would switch to
a Pro Tree with 0.5 second timing.

129 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 129

 2 Press to stage the G-tech. You will see a screen 3 Press to activate the tree.
such as this. Your current settings for reaction tree After a brief period, the simulated staging bulbs will
mode and rollout are displayed. come on.
(On a real track, these lights would come on when
Mode = Full Tree, Rollout = 12 inches, your vehicle is properly positioned).
0.5 second Interval (Shallow Staging)
Note: If the staging bulbs never appear, the
accelerometers need to be re-calibrated. Press to
go back to the G-Window screen with the tachometer,
and refer to “Calibrating Accelerometers” on page 28
for details on this procedure.

Staging Bulbs On

130 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 4 After a small, random amount of time, the tree 5 0.5 seconds later, the second amber will light come
countdown will begin — just like at the track. on.
Since this is a 0.5 second Full Tree, the three
amber lights will come on in succession, 0.5 sec- Second amber light on Second LED on
onds apart.
The green light will come on 0.5 seconds after the

Pro Features
third and final amber light.
The G-tech’s LEDs will illuminate at the same time
as do the tree lights on the LCD screen. This way,
you can use the bright LEDs to judge when to start,
(i.e., you do not have to look at the LCD).

First amber light on First LED on

131 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 131

 6 0.5 seconds later, the third and final amber light will 7 0.5 seconds later, the green start light will come on.
come on. At this point, the reaction time clock In a perfect launch, your vehicle would already be
starts. moving at this time, and would have traveled
exactly the rollout distance.
Third amber light on The reaction time clock stops timing once your
Third LED on vehicle has moved the rollout distance.

Green start light on

Fourth LED on

132 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 8 If you had used a “Pro Tree” instead of a “Full 9 If you do not launch your vehicle within a few sec-
Tree” the only difference would be that all three onds of the reaction time clock starting (i.e., when
amber lights, and the three corresponding LEDs, the third amber light comes on), the G-tech
would come on simultaneously, instead of one-at- assumes you do not want to perform an accelera-
a-time. This is just like a Pro Tree at the track. tion run.
In this case you will see the following screen.

Pro Features
All 3 amber lights on at once “Missed Start” indicates the tree counted down,
3 LEDs on but the G-tech never saw the vehicle launch.
After a few seconds you will be returned to the G-
Window.

133 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 133

 Setting the Rollout Distance
1 Start in Configuration Mode and select “Run
The rollout distance is the distance that the vehicle moves Parameters”.
before the E.T. clock starts timing. This is exactly what hap-
pens at a dragstrip.

By configuring the G-tech with a rollout distance that is iden-

tical to the rollout distance you use at the track, your times
will be very close to those measured with the track’s equip-
ment.

Note: You should use the same rollout value when doing
2 Select “Staging/Rollout”.

several runs that you will compare against one another.

For more information, refer to “Drag Strip Concepts” on

page 147.

Use the following procedure to set the rollout for a run.

134 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 3 Enter your desired rollout distance.
Valid values are in the range 0-16 inches.
Press to save changes.
Press to abort and discard changes.

Pro Features
135 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 135
136 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 Additional Info
Additional Info
This section is a collection of tips, technical informa-
tion, and reference information for your use.

137 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 137

 Configuration Mode Overview
(p. 128)
(p. 134)
(p. 105)
(p. 106) Use to navigate menu entries

Use to go down one level in menu

(p. 23) Use to go up one level in menu

(p. 20)
(p. 21)
(p. 111)
(p. 124)
(p. 123)

(p. 13)
(p. 28)
(p. 25) (p. 143)
(p. 144)

(p. 18)
(p. 115)
(p. 128)
(p. 118)
(p. 119)
(p. 102)

Figure 43: Configuration Mode Menu Summary

138 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Dragstrip Mode Overview

Use to navigate menu entries

Use to go down one level in menu

Additional Info
Use to go up one level in menu

(p. 13) (p. 98)

(p. 99)

(p. 94) (p. 72)

(p. 95) (p. 72)
(p. 96) (p. 74)
(p. 97) (p. 75)
(p. 78)
(p. 86)
(p. 88)

Figure 44: Drag Strip Mode Menu Summary

139 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 139

 Performing an Acceleration Run

Return to Drag
Strip Mode
G-Window

Save (p. 58)

Rename (p. 60)
Discard (p. 57)

Start Accelerating

Finish Run (p. 58)

Analyze Run
(p. 68)

Figure 45: Performing an Acceleration Run

140 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 might cause the G-tech to trigger before or after you
intend.
Tips for Improving Accuracy
• Rollout distance affects results (both E.T. and trap
• Make sure that your accelerometers are calibrated speed). If you program the G-tech with a large rollout,
properly. Be sure to read “Accelerometer Tips” on your E.T. will be faster and your trap speed will be
page 142 when you have a chance. It provides a lot of higher. Always use the same rollout setting for runs that

Additional Info
useful information on how you can optimize your cali- you will compare against one another. For more infor-
bration mation, see “Rollout” in the Glossary (p. 162).
• Do your acceleration runs on a very flat / level track. • When doing a braking test, bring the vehicle all the way
Even a very gentle slope may cause your readings to be to a complete stop and wait for the E.T. clock to stop
off. counting. If you begin moving again before the E.T. clock
stops, you may not be able to view braking distance
• Try to avoid taking measurements on windy days. A tail results.
wind will artificially lower your time and increase your
measured horsepower. A head wind will artificially • When trying to measure horsepower and torque,
increase your time and lower your measured horse- please follow the procedure in the manual very closely
power. (p. 157)
• Do several runs in both directions to average out the
effects of slope and wind.

• Ensure that the G-tech is not loose in its mounting

bracket and also make sure the mounting bracket is
firmly installed.

• A smooth, strong launch will typically yield the most

repeatable measurements. A jerky or violent launch

141 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 141

 2. Let the G-tech sit powered off for at least 12 hours at
room temperature.
Accelerometer Tips
3. Power on the G-tech and immediately perform a cali-
Hold the G-tech as still as possible during the accelerometer bration (p. 28). This would be the “cold” calibration.
calibration procedure. You may find that it helps to rest the 4. Leave the G-tech powered on for at least 1 hour so that
G-tech against something like a table or a wall during the pro- it reaches full operating temperature.
cedure.
5. Perform a second accelerometer calibration. This would
If you hold the G-tech in an incorrect orientation at any point be the “warm” calibration.
during the accelerometer calibration procedure, the G-tech
will notify you with a message on the screen. After performing the “cold” and “warm” calibrations, go to
the G-tech’s X-Y-Z Gs screen (p. 143). While holding the G-
A blinking black rectangle on the display during calibration tech very still, ensure that the “Mag” value is always between
indicates that the G-tech is seeing shaking/movement. Try to 0.995G and 1.005G, at all temperatures and orientations.
hold the G-tech as still as possible. If you cannot get the rect-
angle to go away, please call Tesla Technical Support at (310) Note: The “Mag” value will always fluctuate a little due to
452-0030. vibrations, etc. As long as the displayed value is within this range,
the calibration is fine.
Ensure that you calibrate the accelerometers at two different
times, as far apart in operating temperature as possible If the “Mag” value is not always between 0.995G and 1.005G:
(p. 35). Our recommended calibration procedure for acceler-
• Erase the accelerometer calibration data (p. 144)
ometers is:
1. Put the G-tech into Configuration Mode and then • Re-calibrate your accelerometers at 2 different tempera-
power it off. tures (p. 28, p. 35)

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
142 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 X-Y-Z Gs Screen 3 Select “Accelerometers” and press .

If you suspect the G-tech is not measuring acceleration accu-

rately, one useful thing to do is to view the “X-Y-Z Gs
screen”. This display shows you the current accelerometer

Additional Info
readings measured by your G-tech.

1 Start in Configuration Mode. 4 Select “X-Y-Z Gs Screen” and press .

2 Select “Calibration” and press . 5 The X-Y-Z Gs screen will appear:

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
143 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 143
 Assuming you have performed two calibrations at
two different temperatures, and the G-tech is held Erasing Accel. Calibration
very still, the Mag reading should always be very
close to +1.000. The closer the G-tech is to
Use the following procedure to erase the G-tech’s acceler-
+1.000, the more accurate your measurements will
ometer calibration data.
be.

If the reading is greater than +1.005 or less than

+0.995 you should erase the current calibration
1 Start in Configuration Mode.

(p. 144) and then re-calibrate the accelerometers

(p. 28).

The X, Y, and Z fields are provided for engineering

support, and generally you will not need to look at
them.

The current temperature inside the G-tech is also 2 Select “Calibration” and press .
displayed, as this affects the accelerometers. It is
provided primarily for engineering support.

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
144 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 3 Select “Accelerometers” and press . RPM Calibration Tips
The G-tech monitors vehicle RPMs constantly. In order to
accurately convert your vehicle’s electrical signature to RPMs,
however, you must first perform an “RPM calibration”

Additional Info
(page 25).

4 Select “Erase Calibration Data” and press .

You can perform the RPM calibration while the vehicle is sta-
tionary or while it is moving (in gear).

The only thing that matters during RPM calibration is that the
vehicle RPMs are stable (unchanging) and that they are at the
value requested by the G-tech.

This means that if the G-tech instructs you to rev the engine
to 4000 RPM and press , make sure the RPMs are steady
5 Press to erase the calibration. right at 4000 RPM before pressing . The more careful you
are during calibration, the better your RPM readings will be.
Press to keep the current calibration.

Some vehicles will allow you to rev the engine to redline

while parked; others have a rev limiter that kicks in early
(such as at 3000 RPM) when the vehicle is not moving.

Note: DO NOT CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETERS or ERASE ACCELEROMETER CALIBERATION

on G-tech units which were shipped after August 2003. They have already been calibrated in the
factory. Older G-techs will automatically request calibration. If you are unsure contact tech support.
145 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 145
 If your vehicle rev limiter kicks in early while stopped, you will During the RPM calibration process, the G-tech suggests two
need to calibrate your RPMs while moving in gear. In this RPM values to use (e.g., 4000 RPM and 2000 RPM). These
case, you should have assistance from a passenger. suggestions are based on what you input for your vehicle red-
line.
Vehicles with automatic transmissions might need to be
placed in first gear to keep the transmission from upshifting In all but a few cases, the suggested RPM values will provide a
during the High RPM calibration. good RPM calibration. If you are not pleased with how well
the G-tech is measuring RPMs after a calibration, the G-tech
Some vehicles have a very faint RPM signal. If you have per- will allow you to change the two RPM calibration points.
formed an RPM calibration but the G-tech tachometer does
not accurately represent your RPMs, your vehicle might fall For example, for a vehicle with a redline of 6500 RPM, the G-
into this category. tech may suggest revving to 4000 RPM for the high value, but
you are free to change this number to a larger number, like
On these vehicles, you may have better results by turning on 6000 RPMs, during the calibration process.
some of your electrical systems (such as the headlights,
defroster, or fan) during the calibration process. If you do this, For example, during RPM calibration, the first screen may
however, it often means you should keep these systems come up as such:
powered when using the G-tech as well.

Another point of note: with many vehicles, the RPM signal is

very weak below 1000 RPMs (even 1500 RPM on some vehi-
cles). This means that when your vehicle is at low RPMs, the
G-tech may register the default value of 750. This is normal
behavior.
If you would like to calibrate at 6000 RPMs instead of 4000
RPMs, just press twice to change the “4000” to a “6000”,
and then rev your engine to 6000 RPMs and press .

146 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 You can typically continue to inch your vehicle forward about
one foot (depending on your tire diameter) and the Stage
Drag Strip Concepts Bulb will remain on.

Note: For a more information on drag race terminology and As you inch forward, eventually the Pre Stage Bulb will turn
concepts, please visit our drag racing info page at: off. This is OK, since the Pre Stage Bulb has nothing to do
http://www.gtechpro.com/dragstrip.html

Additional Info
with the starting line, and is simply provided as a courtesy.
This web page explains concepts such as “reaction time,” “roll-
out,” “full tree,” and “pro tree.” If you roll your vehicle too far forward, the Staging Bulb will
go out, indicating your front tires are no longer blocking the
At a dragstrip, there is a small region which contains two Stage Beam, and you must back up your vehicle and re-stage
beams that determine where your front tires are. The first before the run can begin. The Christmas Tree will not begin
beam your vehicle encounters is called the “Pre-Stage Beam”, the countdown until your vehicle (and the vehicle next to
and the second beam is called the “Stage Beam”. you) is staged.

When you first move your vehicle into the starting line As long as the Staging Bulb is illuminated, i.e., as long as any
region, the “Pre Stage” bulb on the track’s Christmas tree illu- part of your front tire is blocking the Stage Beam, you are
minates to tell you that your front tires have blocked the Pre- “staged” for a legal start.
Stage Beam and are close to the Stage Beam.
If you stop inching your vehicle forward immediately after the
When you roll forward a bit more (usually about 6-8 inches), Staging Bulb comes on, you have “shallow staged” (i.e., you
a second bulb, called the “Staging Bulb”, comes on. This indi- have barely entered the staging area). This will generally give
cates your front tires have blocked the Stage Beam. At this you a longer reaction time but a faster E.T. and trap speed,
point, your vehicle is “staged”, and ready for a legal start. because the vehicle has more of a “running start” before the
E.T. clock starts.

147 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 147

 If you continue to inch your vehicle forward until you have allows you to set the rollout distance, i.e. how far the vehicle
almost left the staging area, you have “deep staged” (i.e., you moves before the E.T. clock starts.
are very close to the starting line). Deep stagers will often roll
forward until the Pre Stage Bulb goes out... making sure not A large rollout distance (such as 16”) gives the vehicle more
to turn off the Stage Bulb as well. of a “running start” before the E.T. clock starts. This can result
in shaving several tenths of a second from the E.T. and adding
Deep staging will generally give you a shorter reaction time, several MPH to the trap speed.
but a slower E.T. and trap speed, because the vehicle has vir-
tually no running start before the E.T. clock starts. As an example, say you set the rollout distance in the G-tech
to 12 inches. When you launch your vehicle, the G-tech
The E.T. clock begins running once the vehicle’s front tires knows when your car has barely begun to move, i.e. a fraction
have rolled far enough forward so that they are no longer of an inch. But it won’t start the E.T. clock until it determines
blocking the Stage Beam. This means if you sit at the starting your vehicle has traveled 12 inches forward. At the track, this
line for a bit after you should have launched, it won’t affect would mean your vehicle traveled 12 inches before the front
your E.T., since your vehicle will still be blocking the Stage tires rolled far enough to unblock the Stage Beam.
Beam. The E.T. clock stops running once the driver passes the
quarter-mile mark. In any of the 4 Timing Tree modes, the G-tech will measure
your reaction time. Also just like a track, it will begin measur-
The reaction time clock begins timing as soon as the third ing your 1/4 mile time when the vehicle has traveled the full
amber light comes on. Even if your vehicle doesn’t move, the rollout distance.
reaction time clock is running! The reaction time clock stops
running once the vehicle moves forward enough to unblock A poor reaction time will not hurt your 1/4 mile time. In other
the Stage Beam (this is exactly when the E.T. clock begins words, if you sit at the starting line for 2 seconds after you should
timing.) have launched, you will have a terrible reaction time, but your 1/
4 mile E.T. will still reflect the time it took your vehicle to move a
Rollout is defined as how far your vehicle moves from a stop 1/4 mile once it crossed the starting line.
(when it is staged) until the E.T. clock starts. The G-tech

148 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 If...
You typically stop your vehicle as soon as the Stage Bulb
comes on at the track, this means you are a shallow stager.
Adjusting the bracket
Set your rollout to a distance like 8, 10 or 12 inches.
This section describes how to adjust the position of the
If... mounting clip for better viewing.

Additional Info
You typically roll your vehicle forward only a few inches after
the Stage Bulb comes on, you are a deep stager. Your rollout It is very important that this technique be followed in order
will be smaller, maybe 2 or 4 inches. to avoid damage to your mounting system.

1 Turn the Large Vacuum Nut counter-clockwise until

the mounting clip can rotate freely.

Turn Counter-
clockwise

149 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 149

 2 Adjust the position of the mounting clip gently. If
Removing the bracket
the clip does not pivot easily, loosen the Large Vac-
uum Nut even more, otherwise you risk damaging
the ball portion of the mounting clip. It is very important that this technique be followed in order
to avoid damage to your mounting system.
3 Turn the Large Vacuum Nut clockwise until it is

1
snug and the mounting clip is held firmly in place.
Turn the Large Vacuum Nut counter-clockwise until
M it is snug up against the Small Tensioning Nut.
U

Gap Turn Counter-

U
C
VA

clockwise

Tighten

150 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 2 Find the small rubber tab protruding from the side
Permanent Mounting
of the large rubber suction cup that is attached to
the windshield.
Pull the rubber tab gently away from the wind- Your G-tech is supplied with a permanent mounting stem
shield. This should break the vacuum seal and the (Figure 46) which can be attached to a part of your vehicle
other than the windshield.

Additional Info
entire mounting apparatus should come off easily.

Note: To use the permanent mounting system, holes must

be drilled on a relatively flat surface within the vehicle.

Tab

Figure 46: Permanent Mounting Stem

Use the provided screws to mount the permanent mounting

stem in your vehicle. Re-assemble the mounting bracket as
shown in page 37. Remember not to overtighten.

151 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 151

 Firmware Upgrades Battery Replacement
The programming inside your G-tech is referred to as “firm- The G-tech contains a small internal battery that powers its
ware.” internal clock when no external power is applied.

As part of our ongoing commitment to you, the enthusiast, The battery will last several years, but at some point the G-
we are constantly updating the firmware. tech’s internal battery may need replacing.

As a G-tech owner, you are entitled to free upgrades and If the G-tech loses the current date/time when you power it
improvements for the life of the product. off and then on again, the battery needs replacing. You can
determine whether the battery is dead by going into Config-
Upgrading the firmware is a straightforward process. You will uration Mode and going into the “Set Date and Time” menu
need Internet access in order to download the new firmware (p. 18). If the date is set to Jan. 1 2002, 1:00 am, it means the
from the Tesla Electronics Inc. website. battery needs replacing.
1. Determine the version of firmware you have installed
If you encounter this situation, please contact Tesla Electron-
on your G-tech (“Displaying Firmware Version” on
ics Technical Support (p. 165).
page 115).
2. Check the Tesla Electronics Inc. website
(http://www.gtechpro.com) for information on support
and firmware downloads.
3. If the website has a newer version of firmware, down-
load it from the website and follow the instructions
included with it to re-program your G-tech with the
new firmware.

152 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 The problem with RPMs on motorcycles is due to differences
between motorcycle and automotive electrical systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can I “hardwire” my G-tech into my vehicle?
Note: Please visit the Tesla Electronics Inc. website at:
http://www.gtechpro.com/support.html A : For this, we recommend that you buy a 12V extension power
for the most up-to-date list of Frequently Asked Questions. cable, such as Part Number 270-1592 — “10-Ft. Coiled 12VDC

Additional Info
Car Power Adapter Extension Cord“ — from Radio Shack, and
then modify and route that cable to your preference.
Q : Can I disable the speed mark?
A : No. But you can set it to 150MPH, which is essentially the Most importantly, please do not cut or modify the cable that
same effect for most vehicles, since very few vehicles can reach came with your G-tech!!! Tesla Electronics Inc. cannot replace
150MPH in the span of a 1/4 mile. cables that have been modified or damaged.

Q : The horsepower and torque numbers I see seem to

be way off. What is going on here?
A : There is a specific driving style and procedure that we recom-
mend when measuring horsepower and torque. The driving style
is different than that for 1/4 mile runs. Please refer to “Horse-
power, Torque & G-tech” on page 157.

Q : Can I use the G-tech with my motorcycle?

A : Yes, although the RPMs generally won’t work with a motorcy-
cle. Therefore, you can get 0-60 MPH, 1/4 mile, etc. and other
straight-line measurements, but graphs such as RPM vs. time,
and HP & TQ vs. RPM, will probably be meaningless.

153 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 153

 moved since your last acceleration run.
If you are stopped on level ground, your acceleration bars should
Troubleshooting register very close to 0.00. If not, please refer to “Self-leveling the
G-tech” on page 49.
Note: Please visit the Tesla Electronics Inc. website at:
http://www.gtechpro.com/support.html
My Gtech keeps saying “Staging” forever when I
for the most up-to-date troubleshooting information.
press from the G-Window... in other words, I
never get the “Launch when ready” message.
The tach needle moves when my vehicle’s RPMs
change, but it is not accurate. Your G-tech’s accelerometers need to be calibrated. Please refer
to “Calibrating Accelerometers” on page 28.
This indicates that the RPMs need calibrating for this vehicle.
Please refer to p. 25 for information on RPM calibration, and
p. 145 for RPM calibration tips. I have a message on my screen that says “DIAGS
FAILED” with some other text.

The tach needle does not move at all after I have Your G-tech’s built-in diagnostics have detected a problem.
performed an RPM calibration. Please call Tesla Technical Support to resolve this.

If the tach needle does not respond at all to changes in your vehi-
cle’s RPMs, this indicates that the G-tech may be having difficulty I have a message on my screen that says “Diagnos-
locking on to your vehicle’s RPM signature. Please refer to p. 154 tic” with a bunch of other numbers.
for troubleshooting. Your G-tech’s built-in diagnostics have detected a problem.
Please call Tesla Technical Support to resolve this.
The acceleration bars on my G-Window don’t seem
to work properly.
Make sure that the G-tech is calibrated properly and that you
are on level ground. Also make sure the G-tech has not been

154 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 I Want To... Go To:
I Want To... Use the shiftlights to “Setting the Shiftlight Set-
improve my track times point” on page 21,
If you know what you want to do, but just don’t know where “Enabling / Disabling
to find the answer, this is the section for you! Shiftlights” on page 110

Additional Info
Measure horsepower and “HP & Torque vs RPMs” on
I Want To... Go To: torque page 72 and “Horsepower,
Set up my G-tech so I can “Quick Setup and Use” on Torque & G-tech” on
start using it page 18 page 157

Measure my 1/4 mile perfor- Measure my braking distance “Braking Distance” on

“Measuring Your Runs” on
mance page 52 page 88

Calibrate my accelerome- Do a 0-100-0 MPH run “Speed vs time” on

“Calibrating Accelerome-
ters ters” on page 28 and page 78
“Accelerometer Tips” on Measure lateral (cornering) “G-Window: Acceleration
page 142 G’s Bars” on page 47, “Self-lev-
Calibrate my rpms “Calibrating RPMs” on eling the G-tech” on
page 25 and “RPM Calibra- page 49, and “Cornering
tion Tips” on page 145 Lights Overview” on
page 111
Measure my 0-60 mph time “Measuring Your Runs” on
Use My G-tech in multiple “Multiple Vehicle Usage” on
page 52 and “Viewing Run
vehicles page 122
Results” on page 55

155 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 155

 I Want To... Go To: I Want To... Go To:
Use my G-tech in metric “Setting U.S. or Metric Customize the G-tech for “Multiple Vehicle Usage” on
mode Mode” on page 102 my vehicle page 122

Improve my reaction time “Reaction Time / Start Use Cornering Lights for lat- “Cornering Lights Over-
Mode” on page 128 eral Gs view” on page 111

Analyze my runs on a PC “Downloading A Stored Increase the accuracy of my “Tips for Improving Accu-
Run” on page 97 measurements racy” on page 141
“Accelerometer Tips” on
See where I shifted at each page 142
“RPM vs time” on page 75
point during the run “RPM Calibration Tips” on
Mount my G-tech in my “Mounting the G-tech” on page 145
vehicle page 36 “Horsepower, Torque & G-
tech” on page 157
Know when I’ve reached a “Setting the Speed Mark”
certain speed on page 105 Understand why lights keep “Enabling / Disabling
blinking on my G-tech when Shiftlights” on page 110,
Know when I’ve reached a “Setting the Distance I’m driving “Cornering Lights Over-
certain distance Marks” on page 106 view” on page 111, “Setting
the Speed Mark” on
Use my Acceleration Bars page 105, “Setting the Dis-
“G-Window: Acceleration
on the G-Window (Tach tance Marks” on page 106
Bars” on page 47
Screen)
Use my G-tech on my “Frequently Asked Ques-
View the results from a pre- “Loading a Stored Run” on motorcycle tions” on page 153
vious run page 66 and “Viewing Run
Results” on page 55

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 G-tech-Computer Connection Horsepower, Torque & G-tech
In order to upgrade the firmware in your G-tech or transfer This section provides detailed information on the G-tech’s
data (such as stored runs) to your computer, you must horsepower & torque measurements and some guidelines
ensure that the G-tech is powered on and connected to the and tips to help you get repeatable results.

Additional Info
computer via the supplied serial cable.
The G-tech does not measure engine horsepower at the crank,
Generally you will be doing this indoors, so you can use the which is what the automobile manufacturers and magazines
AC power adapter to power the G-tech. typically report.

The serial cable is designed so that only one end will plug into The G-tech does not measure wheel horsepower either (a
the G-tech. The other end plugs into an available serial port dyno measures wheel horsepower). As you may know, wheel
on your computer. It does not matter whether the G-tech is horsepower always measures lower than engine horsepower,
powered on or not when you connect the serial cable. since it includes drivetrain loss, the rolling resistance of the
tires on the road, and other factors.
Note: If your computer does not have a serial port, you will
need to use a serial-to-USB converter device. Companies such as The G-tech measures net horsepower, which reads even
Belkin, Keyspan, D-Link, and Tripp Lite make these devices. lower than wheel horsepower. The G-tech’s net horsepower
Tesla Electronics Inc. cannot provide technical support for any of value is a measurement of all the horsepower that is available
these devices however. to accelerate your vehicle after all power losses have been
subtracted.
Further instructions are provided with firmware upgrades and
the PC Analysis Software. Please visit the Tesla Electronics As one example, on a dyno, the vehicle is not experiencing
website at http://www.gtechpro.com for updates to the G- any aerodynamic drag (“wind resistance”) because it is not
tech firmware and the PC software. actually moving through the air — it is stationary on rollers.

157 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 157

 However, in the “real world” (i.e., at the track), your vehicle 3. Shift out of 1st gear before you are halfway to your
has to contend with issues such as aero drag. vehicle’s redline. So if your vehicle has a 6000 RPM red-
line, shift to 2nd before you reach 3000 RPM in first
Suppose that two vehicles with identical engines, drivetrains, gear. Be sure to let off the throttle between shifts, i.e.,
and tires go to the same dyno. One vehicle has been modi- while the clutch is not fully engaged.
fied to minimize aerodynamic drag. They both go to the dyno
4. As soon as 2nd gear is fully engaged (which should be at
in town and measure identically.
a low RPM, since you shifted out of 1st gear very early),
floor the accelerator. Keep the “pedal to the metal” until
On the G-tech, the vehicle that is more aerodynamic will your vehicle’s redline.
measure a higher net horsepower. This is because it loses less
power due to aerodynamic drag on the track as it is slicing 5. This allows you to cover a very wide RPM range in 2nd
through the air. gear at full throttle. Don’t worry about the fact that you
aren’t in the sweet spot of your power band when you
The optimal driving technique for measuring horsepower and first shift into 2nd gear. That’s the point: we’re measur-
torque is nothing like the technique for obtaining the best 1/4 ing the power over the whole RPM range.
mile results. 6. Once you reach your upper RPM value (e.g. redline) in
2nd gear, shift into 3rd gear and accelerate briefly
We will describe the technique here and then provide some (maybe one second or so.) This does not have to be
supporting information afterwards. full-throttle, since we are using 2nd gear for our horse-
power measurement.
1. Stage the G-tech just as you would for a 1/4 mile run.
Wait for the “Launch when Ready” message. 7. At this point, you can press to stop the G-tech from
2. At a moderate RPM value, start your vehicle briskly off measuring, or just coast (foot off accelerator). The G-
the line, enough to trigger the G-tech and start its clock. tech will stop its clock.
Don’t launch as hard as you would for a quarter mile. 8. Now you can view the “Horsepower and Torque vs
For example, if your vehicle redline is 6000 RPM, launch RPMs” graph for your run (p. 72).
at 1500 to 2000 RPM, for example.

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 Some notes on horsepower runs • Vehicle weight is factored into the horsepower calcula-
tion. This number should be as accurate as possible.
• There is significantly less wind drag in 2nd gear as Refer to “What does my vehicle weigh?” on page 160
opposed to 3rd gear; that is the reason we chose 2nd for more information on vehicle weight.
gear in this example.
• External environmental conditions such as wind, air tem-
• No matter which gear you do your runs in, be sure to perature, and humidity affect net horsepower. The same

Additional Info
use the same gear for all runs you wish to compare. vehicle with the same driver will measure more net
Suppose you do a 2000-7000 RPM run in 2nd gear and horsepower at 32 degrees Fahrenheit than it will at 100
another run from 2000-7000 RPM in 4th gear. The run degrees Fahrenheit. Cold air is more dense, and hence
in 4th gear was at a much greater speed, and hence the contains more combustible oxygen. That’s why your
aero drag was much greater. This will have the effect of vehicle feels so much stronger when it’s cool outside!
lowering the net horsepower on the 4th gear run.
• Cars with Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT)
• Vehicles with extraordinary power, or poor traction, might be a problem, as the G-tech relies on gear shifts
may spin the wheels at full-throttle in 2nd (and even and broad RPM ranges when determining peak horse-
later) gears. The G-tech horsepower measurement power and torque. For these situations, you can use the
relies on no wheelspin being present, just like a chassis G-tech’s Horsepower vs. Time graph to find the peak
dyno. If your vehicle experiences wheelspin in 2nd gear, horsepower value by hand.
please perform the run in 3rd (or 4th...) gear.
• Make sure that your RPMs are calibrated properly and
• Be sure to do multiple runs and average the results for working throughout the entire RPM range before doing
the most accurate and repeatable numbers. You can use a horsepower run. Otherwise your results will be
the G-tech’s PC Analysis Software to assist with this. skewed.
• Remember that with the G-tech, repeatability and tun-
ing is the goal here, not necessarily comparisons to mag-
azines or dynos.

159 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 159

 was stock, and as it is now (Have you added a heavier stereo?
Have you removed the spare tire?). Don’t forget to include
What does my vehicle weigh? your own body weight and the fuel as well.

It is extremely important that the G-tech have an accurate You do NOT want to use the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
value of your vehicle weight in order to calculate useful (GVWR) value that is provided in the vehicle door jamb as
horsepower measurements. the actual vehicle weight.

In this manual, the term “vehicle weight” refers to all the weight GVWR is the fully-loaded vehicle weight with passengers.
that is supported by the vehicle’s tires (including the tires them-
selves). So this includes the driver’s body weight, fuel weight, GVWR is always higher than the actual (empty) vehicle
tools, fast food wrappers, etc. weight.

If you are fortunate enough to have access to an accurate If you enter GVWR instead of actual vehicle weight, your
vehicle scale, go ahead and weigh the vehicle as it would be horsepower numbers will be artificially inflated.
equipped at the track (i.e., with you in it, the correct amount
and type of fuel in the tank, etc.) There is a very rough rule of thumb that you can use to esti-
mate your vehicle weight from the GVWR, but you should
Some tracks even have scales available for weighing your not rely on this being too accurate.
vehicle. Also, some towns have dumps or refuse collection
areas with large scales that you may be able to use. Moving Again, this is a very ROUGH rule of thumb... each manufac-
companies may have vehicle scales as well. turer calculates GVWR in its own way...

If you cannot weigh your vehicle directly, you can estimate it. The rule of thumb is to take the passenger capacity of the
Use the manufacturer’s data to obtain vehicle weight (check vehicle (e.g., 5 for a mid-sized sedan) and subtract from the
the Owner’s Manual or perhaps the Internet). Then adjust GVWR 180lbs for each missing person.
the weight based on the difference between your car as it

160 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Example: Suppose GVWR = 4200 lbs, vehicle capacity is 5
people, but we have only a driver. Thus there are 4 missing
passengers, which means we subtract 4x180lbs. The value
4200 lbs - 720lbs = 3480 lbs. Thus you would enter 3480 lbs
into the G-tech for vehicle weight.

Additional Info
161 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 161
 Cornering Thresholds: In the G-tech, there are two corner-
ing thresholds. The Low Limit is the smallest lateral G acceler-
Glossary ation value that turns on the cornering lights. The High Limit
is the lateral G acceleration value where the cornering lights
Acceleration run: a procedure where the vehicle accelerates are blinking rapidly.
from a stop when the G-tech is staged and ready to begin
timing. The staged G-tech starts timing the acceleration run Deep Staging: A fairly short rollout. On a track, to stage deep,
automatically when the vehicle begins moving. For more you would keep the vehicle rolling forward to within a few
information on acceleration runs, see “Measuring Your Runs” inches of the stage beam. This gives the vehicle almost no dis-
on page 52. tance to move forward and pick up speed prior to starting
the clock.
Accelerometer: a precision device which outputs an electri-
cal signal that changes under acceleration. Distance Mark: An LED that comes on when a specific dis-
tance milestone (60 ft, 1/8 mile or 1/4 mile) has been
Calibration: the process of teaching a device how to relate a reached.
measurement of a system into a useful, quantified value.
Drag Strip Mode: One of two operating modes in the G-
Configuration Mode: One of two operating modes in the G- tech. In this mode, the G-tech allows the user to measure,
tech. In this mode, all settings and configuration items are store and review performance-oriented data about a vehicle.
entered.
E.T.: Elapsed time.
Cornering Gs: see Lateral Acceleration.
Foul: Occurs when the user launches a vehicle too early, and
Cornering Lights: LEDs on the G-tech that illuminate when it crosses the starting line before it should.
lateral G forces of a specific value are exceeded.

162 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 Full Tree: A Christmas light tree where the three amber Reaction Time: The elapsed time from the last amber bulb
bulbs are lit in succession, one after another, followed by the coming on until the vehicle crosses the starting line.
green starting light.
Rollout: The distance a vehicle can travel in the staging area
Lateral Acceleration: Sometimes referred to as “cornering during a drag race before the clock starts timing.
Gs,” this is what is actually called “centripetal acceleration.” It

Additional Info
is the reason that when you turn your vehicle sharply while Shallow Staging: A fairly long rollout. On a track, you would
accelerating, you feel like you are going to slide out of the stop the vehicle rolling forward as soon as the stage beam is
seat. broken. This would typically give the vehicle 12 inches to
move forward and pick up speed prior to starting the clock.
Launch: The process of getting your vehicle moving from a Shallow staging will yield a faster E.T. and trap speed than will
standstill. deep staging, everything else being equal.

LEDs: Light Emitting Diodes, the red lights on the G-tech are Shiftlights: LEDs that come on when the vehicle RPMs
LEDs. approach the shiftpoint.

Menu: A multi-line text display in the G-tech that allows a Shiftpoint: An RPM value programmed into the G-tech. At
user to make a selection. Generally in a menu: selects the this value, the shiftlights blink at full intensity.
currently-highlighted item; goes up one level in the menu;
and move the highlighted selection cursor to another Speed Mark: A speed that is programmed into the G-tech.
item. When the vehicle reaches this speed, an LED is illuminated
for one second.
Pro Tree: A Christmas light tree where the three amber
bulbs are lit together, followed by the green starting light. Stored Runs: Acceleration runs that you have stored in the
G-tech’s internal memory. You can store up to 30 runs in the
G-tech.

163 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 163

 Trap Speed: The average speed of a vehicle during the last 66
feet of a quarter mile at a dragstrip. For the G-tech, “trap
speed” is the speed of the vehicle when it crosses the quarter
mile mark.

164 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 For more info
Tesla Electronics Main Company Website:
http://www.gtechpro.com

Additional Info
G-tech Technical Support:
http://www.gtechpro.com/support.html
support@gtechpro.com

G-tech Discussion Forums:

http://www.gtechproforums.com

Tesla Electronics, Inc.

1749 14th St.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: (310) 452-0030
Fax: (310) 452-0078

165 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 165

166 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1
 Index Temperature Effects, 35
Tips, 142
X-Y-Z Gs Screen, 143

0-100-0 time, 84
Battery, 152
0-60 time, 54, 56
Baud Rate
0-60-0 time, 84
see Serial Port
1/4 Mile
Braking Distance, 88
see Acceleration Runs
Buttons, 10
1/4 mile time & speed, 54, 56
1/8 mile time & speed, 54, 56

Index
1000 ft. time, 54, 56 Cables, 11
330 ft. time, 54, 56 Calibration
50-70 MPH time, 81 Accelerometers, 28
Rejection, 28
60 ft. time, 54, 56
RPMs, 25
Configuration Mode
Acceleration Bars Getting Out Of, 15
Background, 47 Introduction, 13
Acceleration Runs Switching Into, 15
Discarding, 57 Cornering Gs
Performing, 52 see Lateral Gs
Renaming before saving, 60 Cornering Lights
Saving, 58 Enabling/Disabling, 114
Stopping Clock, 54 Overview, 111
Viewing, 55 Setting Limits, 112
see also Stored Runs
Accelerometers
Calibrating, 28 Date and Time
Erasing Calibration, 144 In Run Name, 55

167 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 167

 Setting, 18 G-Window
Distance Marks, 106 Acceleration Bars, 47
Drag Runs Introduction, 45
see Acceleration Runs Tachometer, 47
Drag Strip Mode
Getting Out Of, 15 Horsepower
Introduction, 13 During Acceleration Run, 55
Switching Into, 15 Graph vs. RPMs, 72
Graph vs. Time, 74
Editing Run Names, 60, 95 Troubleshooting, 153
Units, 102
Wind Effects, 141
Factory Defaults, Resetting To, 116
Firmware
Keyboard, 60
Checking Version, 115
Upgrading, 152
Firmware Upgrades, 152 Lateral Gs
Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ), 153 Measuring, 47
Fuse, 12 LCD Contrast, 119

Glossary, 162 Measurement Units

Graphs Corresponding Units, 102
Braking Distance, 88 Metric Mode, 102
Gs (Acceleration) vs. Time, 86 U.S. Mode, 102
HP & Torque vs. RPMs, 72 Memory
HP vs. Time, 74 Capacity, 59
Overview, 69 Checking Free, 62
RPMs vs. Time, 75 Low Memory, 63
Speed vs. Time, 78 Metric Mode

168 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

 see Measurement Units
Modes
Reaction Time
Configuration Mode, 13 Disabling (No Tree), 128
Drag Strip Mode, 13
Full Tree, 128
Switching, 15
Full Tree Example, 129
Mounting System Overview, 128
Adjusting, 149 Pro Tree, 128
Assembling, 37 Pro Tree Example, 133
Mounting In Vehicle, 40 Redline
Parts, 37
Setting, 20
Permanent Mounting, 151
Renaming
Removing, 150

Index
Runs before saving, 60
Multiple Vehicles
Stored Runs, 95
Active Vehicle, 125 Vehicles, 124
Overview, 121
Reset To Factory Defaults, 116
Renaming A Vehicle, 124
Rollout
Selecting A Vehicle, 123
Vehicle-Specific Data, 122 Effect on Results, 141
Overview, 134
Setting, 134
Passing Test, 81 RPMs
PC Adjusting Calibration Points, 146
Communicating With, 157 Calibration Procedure, 25
Downloading Runs To, 97, 99 Calibration Tips, 145
Permanent Mounting, 151
Serial Port
Quarter Mile Baud Rate, 118
see Acceleration Runs Connecting To Computer, 157
Quick Setup, 17 Shiftlights
Behavior, 107

169 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1 169

 Example, 108
Overview, 107
Vehicles
Skidpad see Multiple Vehicles
see Lateral Gs
Speed Mark, 105
Stored Runs Weight
Deleting All, 98 Entering Vehicle Weight, 23
Deleting One Run, 96 Estimating, 160
Downloading All, 99 Horsepower Calculations, 159
Downloading One Run, 97
Recalling/Loading, 94 X-Y-Z Gs Screen, 143
Renaming, 95
Reviewing, 94

Tachometer
Calibrating, 25
Overview, 47
Troubleshooting, 146
Temperature
Calibration Dependency, 35
Timing Tree
see Reaction Time
Torque
During Acceleration Run, 55
Graph vs. RPMs, 72
Troubleshooting, 153, 154

U.S. Mode
see Measurement Units

170 G-TECH / Pro Competition User Guide, Release 3.1

Rollout.fm Page 1 Friday,July 11,2003 8:42 PM

G-tech Results & the Race Ticket Rollout

0 in. 4 in. 8 in. 12 in. 16 in.
Distance
Many people take the G-tech to the drag strip and compare Rollout
0.000 0.226 0.319 0.391 0.452
the G-tech’s results against the race ticket. However, due to Time (s.)
the effects of rollout, it is unlikely that the numbers will line Speed at
up perfectly. end of roll- 0.00 2.01 2.85 3.49 4.02
out (MPH)
Your staging technique at the track has a large effect on your
1/4 mile
race results. A long rollout (shallow staging) provides more of 14.215 13.991 13.899 13.829 13.770
E.T. (s)
a “running start” for your vehicle before it crosses the starting
line. (When we say “crosses the starting line”, we mean “rolls 1/4 mile
far enough to unblock the stage beam.”) This running start trap speed 126.63 126.64 126.66 126.67 126.69
can shave several tenths of a second from a vehicle’s E.T., and (MPH)
add a small amount to the trap speed as well.
Notice how significantly the E.T. is affected by rollout dis-
The following chart demonstrates the effect of rollout on the tance, whereas the effect on trap speed is minor.
1/4-mile E.T. and trap speed. In this chart, the driver drives
the EXACT SAME WAY, the only difference is how much This chart indicates that the E.T. for the exact same driver in
rollout the driver uses, i.e., how deeply the driver stages. (In the exact same car can vary by approximately 0.5 second just
this example, for the sake of illustration, we are assuming the because of rollout!
vehicle pulls about 0.35g of acceleration continuously
throughout the run.) In other words, significant time discrepancies can arise at the
track due entirely to rollout. The time it takes to roll those
first few inches has an enormous effect on the timed mile-
stones (e.g., 60 ft. mark, 1/8 mile mark, 1/4 mile mark).
Rollout.fm Page 2 Friday,July 11,2003 8:42 PM

In all likelihood, when you’re at the track, you will stage

slightly differently each time. Maybe 6 inches one time, 8
inches the next pass, 5 inches the time after that....

The bottom line is this: for the G-tech results to match up

nicely with the race ticket, the G-tech has to start timing at
exactly the same time the track’s E.T. clock starts timing. And
the only way this can happen is if the rollout setting in the G-
tech is set to exactly the same rollout distance you are about
to use on this pass down the track.

On the track, you have to concentrate on your opponent,

the officials, spectators, the Christmas tree, your car, the
launching revs and many other variables. We have found that
concentrating on matching the actual track rollout to what is
set in the G-tech is extremely difficult unless you have some-
body to measure the exact rollout distance as you are stag-
ing.

In general, the small timing discrepancies between the G-tech

and the track can be attributed to the difference between the
G-tech’s rollout setting and the actual rollout that took place
on that particular run.
 Limited Warranty This warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or damage due to
accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use, acts of God, or
modifications of, or to any part of the Product, including accessories.
Tesla Electronics Inc. (“Tesla”) warrants this product and its accesso-
ries against defects in material or workmanship for a period of one This warranty does not cover damage due to operation or mainte-
(1) year from the date of purchase. Tesla will repair or replace this nance, connection to improper voltage supply, or attempted repair
product with new or refurbished products or parts, at Tesla’s option, by anyone other than a facility authorized by Tesla to perform service
free of charge in the USA. on this product.

This warranty extends only to the original purchaser. A purchase This warranty does not cover consumables such as fuses. This war-
receipt or other proof of date of original purchase from an autho- ranty is only valid for the United States.
rized dealer (including Tesla Electronics, Inc.) is required in order to
perform warranty service. Tesla shall not be liable for incidental or consequential damages
resulting from the use of this product, or arising out of any breach of
G-techs bought from Tesla Electronics, Inc. can be returned directly this warranty. All express and implied warranties, including warranty
to Tesla Electronics, Inc. If you bought your G-tech from any other of merchantability, are limited to the applicable warranty period set
authorized dealer, the G-tech must be returned to that dealer in forth above. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
order for warranty service to be provided. incidental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts. Therefore, the above exclusions or limitations
Before you send back a G-tech for warranty service, you must obtain may not apply to you.
a Return Materials Authorization number (“RMA number”) from
Tesla Electronics. G-techs received without an RMA number will not Tesla specifically disclaims any and all liability, whether directly or by
be accepted. The RMA number should be marked conspicuously on way of indemnity, for special, incidental, consequential or other dam-
the outside of the package. ages, whether based on breach of contract, tort, strict or products
liability, or any other legal theory.
This warranty covers failures due only to material or workmanship
defects.