SEMA 2007 Spotlight: Magden M.1 Performance Computer
Since 1996 all vehicles sold in the United States have been equipped with an OBD-II system, also known as On Board Diagnostics. The reasoning behind requiring the system has a lot to do with the EPA and emissions, but it just so happens to also be a great tool for tuning. You may have noticed the required connector hiding around the dash in the vicinity of the driver's seat. Over time, various companies have developed OBD scanners and data loggers, but there were two of particular interest to us at the 2007 SEMA Show (we're covering the other later).
Magden Technologies brought out their M.1 Performance Computer, a compact box capable of logging the user's choice of OBD channels. The data is saved spreadsheet style and can be transferred via a USB dongle and the box also has the ability to log from user added sensors. The most interesting feature though, is the computer's ability to output video display. Combined with Magden's own touch-screen it makes for a pretty impressive interactive light show.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
mk 9:33PM (11/04/2007)
little bit of software to make the display intuitive, and CAN bus integration... this could be fantastic.
not just a touch screen... Heads up display, LCD dashboard, and LCD touch screen system controls, ICE/HVAC/NAV/Car-puter/Bluetooth/whatever-else integration on the center console.
Vital information projected on the windsheild. Vital and secondary information displayed on the LCD dash in the configuration of choice in enhanced analog. All other functions on a touchscreen on the center console, all integrated.
Sounds great to me. Get Apple to design the user interface and graphics layer... it could be great.
With the advent of all this technology, why not bring the driver more information in more intuitive and easily accessible information?
It seems like technology is protecting drivers from themselves, with all sorts of nanny systems. Traction control and brake distribution, lane warning, and black-box data recorders, GPS and cellular built into the car, and all sorts of stuff that could serve to take control out of the driver/owner's hands...
How 'bout helpin' a driver out? Give the driver more information, easier to process, for more control.
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meshies 1:18PM (11/04/2007)
Great product. Really blew me away. This is the future right here guys.
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