Ok i see a lot of stuff about using a laptop to log data. I'm just wondering if there is an advantage to this or is it just cost? I remember seeing something about using excel to create a table that was used with one of the editing programs? Am i right here, any clarification would be much appreciated! Thanks.

 

Try tuning with a handheld scantool that only shows realtime snapshots, or saves 30sec of data that you have to scroll thru one frame at a time.

After this, the benefit of laptop data capture becomes more clear. You can dump the entire capture session into a spreadsheet and walk thru it easily. If you have enough disk space, you can save quite a bit...I captured 8MB worth of my morning commute when I was tuning my VE tables (speed density application) and got to see the engine in a variety of RPM/KPa conditions and vehicle speeds.

 

I have a handheld scanner that i am using now. I guess i see what you are saying. It will just be easier because you will be able to have more data and an easier way to look at it?

 

Yeah, that and you'll have your engine data handy when you're burning chips...unless you want to wheel your PC out to the garage/driveway so you can look at your scantool display.