Escort GT1 G-Timer Radar Laser Detector User Manual
Quick Start Guide
Please read the entire manual to learn details of the many capabilities of your new Performance Computer. This page provides only a basic overview of the installation, features, and capabilities.
INSTALLATION
- Plug into lighter socket
Plug the cord into the Performance Computer, and into your car’s lighter socket. The Performance Computer is always “On,” there is no on-off switch. (If your car’s lighter socket is always powered, unplug the Performance Computer when not in use to avoid discharging your car’s battery.) - Attach to windshield in center of car
Mount the Performance Computer centered between the driver and passenger with the suction cup mount. Make sure the unit is mounted squarely in the car. Do not mount the unit so it is angled toward the driver. Pivot the unit on the bracket until it is approximately level (it is not necessary to be perfectly level). - Park on a level surface, then press and release the CALIBRATE button Each time you remount the unit, you must calibrate the G-Meter. (The calibration is stored in memory even if the unit is unplugged, so you don’t need to calibrate again unless you reposition or reinstall the unit.)
TIMED RUN BUTTON
Press and release to start a timed run Your car must be stopped before you can perform a timed run (0-to-60, quarter mile, etc.).
- Press and release the button
- Wait a few seconds until the display shows “Run READY, Start anytime”
- Accelerate whenever you are ready. During your run, the unit automatically records and saves complete run data. The yellow LED lights when the unit is in the timed run mode and also when you are reviewing timed runs.
- UP AND DOWN BUTTONS
Press to review timed runs The most recent run is saved in memory. Press the UP and DOWN buttons whenever you want to review this run. - CALIBRATE BUTTON
Press and release to calibrate G-Meter - BRIGHTNESS ADJUSTMENT
Hold the CALIBRATE BUTTON to adjust the brightness of the display
G-METER BUTTON
Press and release to select different displays of G-Forces and other data Except when performing timed runs, the unit is normally in the “G-METER” mode, where it can display the acceleration, braking, and cornering G-forces of your car. Press and release to select different G-Meter displays. A good initial choice is G-Meter Option 1, a Bar Graph that shows acceleration and braking forces on the top line, and cornering forces on the bottom line.
SETUP MODE
Hold the G-METER button to enter Set-Up mode
- Mounting Location
Mount the unit on the windshield, centered between driver and passenger. The unit must be straight across the car. Do not angle the unit toward the driver! - Angle adjustment
Pivot the unit on its windshield bracket until it is approximately level. It is important that the unit stays in position during use. If the unit pivots too easily, tighten the large Phillips-head fastener slightly.
Calibration
- G-Meter: Park on a level surface, then press the CALIBRATE button to calibrate the G-Meter function.
- Timed Run: You do not have to press the calibration button before a timed run. The Performance Computer automatically performs a separate internal calibration before each timed run.
Remote Control Cord
- Press and release the button to operate the G-Meter function. Press again to change to different display.
- Press and hold the button to start a Timed Run.
Unit must be mounted squarely in car
Mount the unit on the windshield, centered between driver and passenger. The unit must be straight across the car. Do not angle the unit toward the driver!
Unit does not have to be exactly level
The unit does not have to be perfectly level side to side, special circuitry automatically compensates for mounting angles up to 30 degrees from level.
Tilt does not have to be exactly level.
The front of the unit does not have to be perfectly level, special circuitry automatically compensates for mounting angles up to 30 degrees from level.
G-Meter Operation
The basics of G-Forces
When you’re not performing a Timed Run, the Performance Computer is in the G-Meter Mode, where it can display the acceleration, braking, and cornering forces of your car. These forces are measured in “G’s,” and they are the best way to measure your car’s performance. You’ve felt these forces—when a powerful car “pushes you back in the seat,” when a panic stop presses you forward against the seat belt, and when a sharp corner presses you against the door panel.
What the G-Meter shows
The G-Meter displays the G-Forces exerted by your car, in the plane of the road. On a perfectly level surface, the G-Meter will read zero when your car is not moving, or when it is traveling “steady-state” (not accelerating, braking, or turning). However, on hills or sloped surfaces, the G-Meter will show a small G-Force, even when your car is not moving. This shows the force your tires are exerting to keep your car from sliding down the slope.
TO SELECT G-METER
Press and release the G-METER button to choose the G-Meter mode. Press and release the button again to select different G-Meter display options. To Calibrate the G-Meter, park on a level surface, then press and release the CALIBRATE button.
WARNING!
This device measures G-Forces, but remember, it does not change the laws of physics. Under certain circumstances, almost any vehicle can roll over, causing serious injury or death. Taller vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and vans are more likely to roll than conventional cars, so even more care needs to be taken with those vehicles. No electronic device can take the place of the driver’s judgment.
G-METER OPTION 1: BAR GRAPHS
Press and release the G-METER button as necessary to select “G-METER OPTION 1.” This display shows straightforward bar graphs of G-Forces. The top line shows acceleration and braking forces; the bottom line shows cornering forces. The default scale for the Bar Graphs is .80 G full scale. You can adjust this using the Setup mode.
Typical Cornering G-Forces
Below we list typical maximum cornering forces for different types of cars. Of course, auto testers use smooth, level pavement under optimum conditions to achieve these figures. Standard sedan .70 G to .80 G Sports sedan .80 G to .90 G For example, BMW M3, Acura RSX, etc. High performance .90G to 1.00G For example, Corvette, Viper, Porsche 911 Modified car 1.00 G or more
G-METER OPTION 2: PEAK HOLD
Press and release the G-METER button as necessary to select “G-METER OPTION 2.” This display shows the peaks in acceleration, braking, left cornering, and right cornering G-Forces, and “holds” those numbers on the screen for 4 seconds. You can adjust the hold time using the Setup mode.
G-METER OPTION 3: FORWARD + 0 to 60
Press and release the G-METER button as necessary to select “G-METER OPTION 3.” The top line shows acceleration and braking forces, the same as G-METER Option 1: Bar Graphs. The second line shows your “Top 10” best 0 to 60mph times to date. (Of course, you must perform timed runs before times will appear in this display). The display continuously scrolls through your best 0 to 60 times.]
G-METER OPTION 4: BEST 0 TO 60 RUNS
Press and release the G-METER button as necessary to select “G-METER OPTION 4.” This display does not show G-Forces, it only displays your 10 best 0 to 60 times to date. The display continuously scrolls through your best 0 to 60 runs.
G-METER OPTION 5: BEST 1/4 MILE RUNS
Press and release the G-METER button as necessary to select “G-METER OPTION 5.” This display does not show G-Forces, it only displays your 10 best 1/4 Mile times to date. The display continuously scrolls through your best 1/4 Mile runs.
How it works
The Performance Computer measures the performance of your car by sensing acceleration forces. An internal precise digital 2-axis accelerometer tracks your car’s acceleration, braking, and cornering forces approximately 200 times each second. A built-in computer continuously analyzes this data and calculates corrected G-Forces for the G-Meter operation, and speed and distance data for the Timed Run operation. Your Performance Computer was developed and tested extensively, both at drag strips and using our VBOX professional vehicle testing equipment, the ultraprecise data acquisition system used by auto makers BMW, Honda, and AMG Mercedes; race teams Ford Racing, Roush Industries, Chip Ganassi Racing, and Renault F1; tire manufacturers Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, and Kumho; and car testers at Car and Driver and Automobile Magazines. The result is the most accurate accelerometer-based performance computer available. And it’s the first unit with true one-button operation: Press a single button for calibration, a single button for G-meter operation, a single button to start a timed run, and a single button to review your previous runs.
Specifications
Accelerometer
2-axis, +2G range, high-resolution digital outputs.
Processor
Advanced RISC-based 8-bit microcontroller with 32KB
Flash Program Memory, 2KB SRAM, 1KB EEPROM, integral 8-channel 10-bit A/D convertor. Throughput up to 14.75 MIPS at 14.75 MHz.
Temperature Compensation
Factory-calibrated. Internal digital temperature sensor provides real-time continuous temperature compensation.
Power Regulation
Ultra-stable high-efficiency digital power supply with secondary 5 volt regulator for accelerometer power.
Display
Backlit LCD Display, 32 character.
Housing
Injection-molded Polycarbonate/ABS alloy. Aluminum alloy mounting bracket.
Dimensions
5.5”W x 1.7”H x 1.4”D., Weight 5.5 oz.
Power Requirement
12 volt DC Negative ground, 125mA typical.
Timed Runs
Your Performance Computer’s intuitive “one-button” operation makes timing your car’s performance easy. You start the process by pressing the TIMED RUN button. The unit performs an internal calibration, then the timer starts automatically when you accelerate, and stops automatically at the end of your run. It is not necessary to accelerate to a very high speed or for a full 1/4 mile to perform a timed run. The Performance Computer records data for short runs also (provided you accelerate to 30mph or higher). Detailed run results for your most recent run is automatically kept in memory. Review the results anytime with the UP and DOWN buttons.
Tip for accurate timed runs
The road does not have to be perfectly level, but it should be flat. In other words, testing on a slight incline is acceptable, provided the slope is relatively consistent for the entire length of the run. Of course, your car will accelerate slower on an incline. Temperature and wind will also affect your results.
HOW TO START A TIMED RUN
- Car must be stopped.
- Press and release the TIMED RUN button.
- Wait a few seconds until you see:
READY Start Anytime Start whenever you are ready.
NOTE: You do not have to press the CALIBRATE button before a timed run. The Performance Computer performs an internal calibration each time you start a timed run. (The calibration of the G-Meter function is not changed during a timed run, so the G-Meter will operate the same before and after a timed run.)
TIMER STOPS AUTOMATICALLY
The Performance Computer automatically records all
run data, and will continue taking data until any of
the following occurs:
- You stop accelerating. —or—
- You travel 1/4 mile. —or—
- Time exceeds 30 seconds. —or—
- You press the Timed Run button again.
REVIEWING RESULTS
After the run ends, the unit will display two alternating screens:
Run Complete More Run Info
This screen explains that you can see more information by pressing the UP and DOWN buttons. (See the following pages of this manual for details.) Run Complete O-6O 5.84 sec
This screen shows one data point for your timed run, depending on the details of your run:
- If your top speed was under 60 mph: It will show the highest “even-10mph” speed you reach. For example, if your top speed was 46mph, it will display your 0 to 40 time.
- If your top speed was over 60 mph, but you decelerated before 1/4 mile: It will show your 0 to 60 time.
- If you complete the 1/4 mile: It will show your 1/4 mile time and speed.
REVIEWING DETAILED RUN RESULTS
The Performance Computer automatically records all run data during a timed run. To review the data after the run, press the UP and DOWN buttons. The data for your most recent run is automatically kept in memory. You can review the data immediately after your run, or anytime later. The memory is maintained even when the unit is powered off. As you press the DOWN button, you’ll see the data for your most recent run. Keep scrolling down to see all the data from that run. After reviewing the data, press the G-METER button to return to G-Meter mode, or press the TIMED RUN button to start another timed run.
AN EXAMPLE OF RUN DATA
Here is an example of the data you can view after each timed run. Each time you press the DOWN button, you will see another screen of data. This run was for a complete 1/4 mile, shorter runs will have less data to review.
NAVIGATING THROUGH THE DATA
Use the DOWN and UP buttons to scroll through the data from your run. After reviewing the data, press the G-METER button to return to G-Meter mode, or press the TIMED RUN button to start another timed run.
Measuring Horsepower
Your Performance Computer can measure your car’s peak and average horsepower, but to do so, you have to enter the following data using the Setup mode (see page 20):
- The weight of the vehicle
- The speed range over which you want to calculate average horsepower.
- Horsepower Factor We’ll discuss each of these items individually
VEHICLE WEIGHT
You must enter the weight of your vehicle. This information is usually available in your vehicle owner’s manual or brochure. Several different terms are used by manufacturers. “Curb Weight” is the weight of the vehicle without passengers and cargo. “Payload” is the maximum allowable weight of passengers and cargo. “GVWR” is the sum of the Curb Weight and the Payload, so it is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle including passengers and cargo. You should use the Curb Weight figure if available, but add the weight of the driver, passengers and cargo, plus any additional equipment added to the vehicle.
HORSEPOWER SPEED RANGE
You must select the speed range for horsepower calculations. The Performance Computer will calculate the average horsepower over this range, as well as the peak horsepower within the range. In most cases you should use a speed range in second gear to reduce the possible effect of wheelspin. The graph to the left shows a quarter mile run. You can see the 1-2 shift at about 32 mph, and the 2-3 shift at about 56 mph. The car’s flywheel can store energy between shifts, which will result in optimistic horsepower calculations immediately after a shift. To avoid this, set your starting point a few mph above the shift point. Then set your end point a few mph below your next shift. So in this example, you might set your HP min speed to 35 mph, and the HP max speed to 53 mph.
NOTE: You don’t need to do a graph of your car’s performance to determine these numbers.
Just set the HP Min Speed a bit above your 1-2 shift, and set the HP Max speed a bit below your 2-3 shift. The factory defaults for the HP speed range are HP Min Speed 30 mph, and HP Max speed 50.
HORSEPOWER FACTOR
The Performance Computer calculates your car’s available “Wheel Horsepower,” which is affected by drivetrain losses, rolling resistance, and aerodynamic drag. This calculated horsepower is the horsepower available to accelerate the vehicle, which is what determines the vehicle’s performance. However, manufacturers’ ratings list a higher engine horsepower, which is not reduced by these other real-world factors. If you like, you can enter a “Horsepower Factor” to increase the wheel horsepower readings to approximately correlate to the higher engine horsepower. For example, if your car is rated at 200 horsepower, and the Performance Computer calculates your peak wheel horsepower to be 168 horsepower, you would divide 200 by 168, to get a correction factor of 1.19 If you adjust the Horsepower Factor in the Setup Mode to 1.19, your Performance Computer will use that correction when calculating horsepower. See the following pages for details on using the Setup Mode to enter your settings for these items.
Optional accessories
These accessories are included with some models, but are also available separately.
REMOTE CONTROL CORD WITH LIGHTER PLUG See page 6.
PERMANENT MOUNTING BRACKET
Some race sanctioning organizations may require that your Performance Computer is permanently attached to your car. This bracket replaces the windshield mount.
USE CARE WHEN INSTALLING THIS BRACKET! (See our website if you’d like more details)
- To remove the windshield bracket, carefully unscrew the large Phillips-head fastener and remove.
- Carefully remove the long bolt. Take care not to lose the neoprene O-rings mounted on both sides in between the bracket and the housing.
- Insert the bolt through the square hole on the new bracket, and carefully guide the bolt into the hole on the right side of the Performance Computer.
BE PATIENT WHILE GUIDING THIS BOLT INTO PLACE. IT IS POSSIBLE TO DAMAGE THE CIRCUITRY IF YOU FORCE THE BOLT INTO POSITION.
- Carefully line up the bracket, making sure the Orings are in position. Bend the bracket slightly if necessary. Then carefully insert the Phillips-head fastener, and tighten. Do not overtighten.
DIRECT-WIRE REMOTE CONTROL CORD
IMPORTANT: This must be installed by someone experienced with automotive electrical systems. If in doubt, see your car dealer or a car stereo installer.
The black ground wire is fitted with a lug that must be attached to an electrical ground. The red-striped wire for +12 volts is fitted with an insulated 1/4” male spade lug connector. We have also supplied a special blue connector that allows you to tap into an existing wire in your vehicle. This connector can only be used with wire gauges 14 though 18.
Most users tap into a “switched” circuit of the vehicle (one which is on when the car is on, and off when the car is off). To install the blue connector, position it around the wire you wish to tap into, then squeeze it with pliers until the halves snap together. Then plug the insulated connector from the power cord into this connector.
Troubleshooting
See additional troubleshooting tips, FAQ’s, and other information on our website, or email us at: support@escortinc.com
G-METER ACCURACY
When driving on sloped or crowned roads, it is normal for the G-Meter to read slight g-forces, even when the car is not accelerating or is stationary. The G-Meter measures G-Forces in the plane of the road. After you calibrate it on level ground, it will read zero G’s on level ground. But on a hill, slope, or a crowned road, it will show a small G-Force reading. This reading shows the force your tires are exerting to stop your car from sliding down the hill.
TIMED RUN ACCURACY
For most cars, the Performance Computer will provide very accurate timed runs without changing any of the Setup mode items. However, to fine-tune your results to match times from a drag strip, you may need to adjust the Rollout and Pitch settings in the Setup mode.
Important: Do not adjust any settings based on the results of only one or two runs. Make at least three or four runs, and compare official track times to the times from your Performance Computer. Also, it is very important to stage your car exactly the same for each run at the drag strip, since changes in your position of only a few inches will significantly affect the drag strip times due to rollout.
- The two Setup mode items that affect Timed Run accuracy are “Rollout distance” and “Pitch Characteristics” (the way your car tilts back under acceleration). Significantly modified cars may require additional experimentation to determine the proper settings, but the following is a straightforward process to optimize the settings for most streetable vehicles.
Fine-tune “Rollout” in Setup Mode
Adjusting the Rollout setting will change all of your times equally (60‘, 330’, 1/8 mile, 1000’, and 1/4 mile). Ideally you should adjust the Rollout setting so on average the Performance Computer’s 60 foot times are very close to the drag strip’s 60 foot times. Every situation and vehicle is different, but here are some ballpark adjustments:
- Increasing the Rollout setting by 3” in the Setup mode will reduce the Performance Computer’s times by approximately .04 seconds.
- Decreasing the Rollout setting by 3” in the Setup mode will increase the Performance Computer’s times by approximately .04 seconds.
REFRENCE LINK
