Megasquirt datalogger, description of EFI dash display and datalogger Options

[jpnovak]

I know that many members here are running Megasquirt in their cars. There is also a need for data feedback from the ECU. Previously I made a dash display for my MS unit. Here is the link.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911...sh-display.html

When I originally started the display project I envisioned additional functionality. Who knew it would take so long to make this happen. My code skills are poor at best but I can say I made this happen with only a little outside help.

I just completed a prototype SD card datalogger on the breadboard. It is working with B&G MSII 2.88 code. I have not tried it with any other code variants yet (MSII Extra) but expect to soon. I will be testing in the car over the next week or so.

This should answer the call for track users, Motorcycles and other users that can not carry a laptop for obvious reasons. This is not meant to replace a laptop but rather be a supplement.
The current setup has the following features:

microSD card
file format (.frd) that imports into TunerStudio (Thanks to Phil Tobin for the help)
LCD display compatibility (# variables depends on size)
switch activated logging capability
data rate ~20Hz

My plan is to do a small preliminary run of boards to make this happen. There are a few options and I thought I would poll the board to see what interests are out there. These three represent the simplest options. Each would probably require some user assembly for power hookups and other peripherals.

1. MS datalogger
(+) small size (approx 1x3" without box)
(+) simple (only datalogging)
(-) no options
expected cost ~$100

2. Expanded function datalogger with display
(+) similar size as above size (approx 1x3" without box)
(+) added display (2x20 with 4 variables or 4x20 with up to 8 variables)
expected cost ~$150

3. Vehicle Dynamics datalogger
can function as MS datalogger or vehicle dynamics datalogger (but not simultaneously - yet)
(+) MS variable logging (up to 10, possibly more with development; for example, rpm, MAP, AFR, CLT, etc)
(+) 3-axis - 2G accelerometer
(+) LCD display (see option #2)
(+) 10 Hz GPS (almost finished working)
(+) csv data format compatible with TrackVision or other external software
(-) you are on your own for data interpretation. I am still working on this but there are no plans for integrated software - yet)
expected cost ~$350 (compare to other systems)

the price goes up with increased complexity and board design. I am trying to keep these competitive and the price may change but not significantly. Keep in mind that this system is based upon a rather powerful (and expensive) microcontroller. I am not sure I can bring the cost down too much.
There is room for further development and other options might be available.

So... Post which option is most favorable and I will begin doing board layout once I see a clear indication of a favorite for the first beta run.

Also what is the preference.. regular or micro-SD card? I can do both.