Dakota Digital GRAFIX User manual

1 MAN# 650814
GRAFIX
Graphical Display Instrument System
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
Please read this before beginning installation or wiring.
IMPORTANT NOTE! This system has an odometer preset option that is only
available for the first 100 miles of operation. See odometer preset section (p. 31)
for instructions and setup information.

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents..................................................................................................................................2
Introduction...........................................................................................................................................3
GRAFIX Series System Features .........................................................................................................3
General Information..............................................................................................................................5
Care and Cleaning.............................................................................................................................5
GRAFIX System Installation...............................................................................................................5
Control Box Mounting ........................................................................................................................5
Wiring....................................................................................................................................................6
Terminal Descriptions ........................................................................................................................7
Global Feature Details ........................................................................................................................17
Control Knob....................................................................................................................................17
Message Center...............................................................................................................................17
GRAFIX Warning System ................................................................................................................19
MAIN MENU .......................................................................................................................................19
HI VIZ (High Visibility ON or OFF): ...............................................................................................20
LAYOUTS (#):...............................................................................................................................20
SYSTEM:......................................................................................................................................20
SETUP:.........................................................................................................................................20
EXIT:.............................................................................................................................................20
SYSTEM sub-menu ‘Quick view’ ........................................................................................................21
SETUP sub-menu ‘Quick view’ ...........................................................................................................24
Detailed Instructions ...........................................................................................................................26
SYSTEM..........................................................................................................................................26
LAYOUTS (Theme selection, Color/Gauge customization, Message Group setup) .....................26
DISPLAY (Intensity, Turn remind, Gear, Set ODO, Extra Label, Start Image)..............................31
INFO (Sensor, GPS, Version, Display) .........................................................................................34
SWITCH (Control Knob settings) ..................................................................................................34
UPDATE (Themes, Operational SW, Start Image) .......................................................................35
SETUP.............................................................................................................................................36
BLUETOOTH (setting up Bluetooth).............................................................................................37
CLOCK (setting clock)...................................................................................................................37
SPEED (Speedometer setup and calibration)...............................................................................37
TACH (Tachometer setup)............................................................................................................40
VOLT (Voltmeter warning setup)...................................................................................................41
WATER (Water temperature setup)..............................................................................................41
OIL (Oil pressure setup)................................................................................................................42
FUEL (Fuel sender setup).............................................................................................................43
BIM (Bus Interface Module setup).................................................................................................44
WARN (Warning setup).................................................................................................................44
GFORCE (GFORCE meter setup)................................................................................................46
CAMERA (Camera trigger setup)..................................................................................................47
DEMO MODE (Demonstration mode activation)...........................................................................48
FULL RESET (Full factory reset) ..................................................................................................48
Glossary of Terms...............................................................................................................................49
Indicators ............................................................................................................................................50
Update Port / Flash Thumb Drive Specifications.................................................................................50
Optional Camera Specifications..........................................................................................................50
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE............................................................................................................51
SERVICE AND REPAIR .....................................................................................................................56

3 MAN# 650814
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a GRAFIX system from DAKOTA DIGITAL. The GRAFIX series represents
the latest in aftermarket electronic dashboard technology for car and truck enthusiasts. The GRAFIX
system combines modern digital electronics with user configuration flexibility not found in any other
aftermarket Instrument Cluster. This combined with the accurate system information and ease of
operation expected from Dakota Digital make the GRAFIX lineup stand out from other aftermarket
instrumentation. The GRAFIX system boasts excellent daytime visibility with its daylight readable
TFT displays, which can be automatically controlled via on panel ambient light detection, or manually
controlled to the driver’s preference – for both daytime and night time driving conditions. The
included standard definition camera input and configuration capability, add another dimension to the
GRAFIX series not found in other aftermarket systems.
Through the monitoring of Dakota Digital’s supplied solid-state sensors, the GRAFIX Instrument
Cluster gives the driver unparalleled accuracy and real time feedback. The user defined,
customizable display readings and features, which are not typically found on aftermarket
instrumentation –are now standard on the GRAFIX system. This digital accuracy and solid-state
reliability will give you quality service for miles down the road, and also includes a limited lifetime
warranty on a product engineered and manufactured in the USA!
GRAFIX Series System Features
Full Color TFT(s)
•Four (4) factory preset, user configurable layouts
•User configurable layout parameters including:
Theme selection, Colors, Gauge arrangement, Message Center assignments
•Analog and Digital readouts
•Built in ambient light detection
•High visibility (HI VIZ) daytime mode
•Configurable Daytime and Nighttime display colors
Four (4) Factory Installed Themes (Graphical styles)
•Standard: Basic analog gauge look and feel
•Performance: Easy to read bar-gauges and digital readouts
•Modern: Contemporary styling details
•Era: Factory installed ‘period correct’per GRAFIX application
Built in GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver
•For use with speed data, compass heading, real time clock
•Accelerometer included for improved speed stability
•Built in satellite antenna w/ interface for external antenna (sold separately)
User Interface
•Single Rotary Control Knob with user configurable lighting and audible feedback
•Easy to follow/straight forward menu structure
•Downloadable Application for IOS and Android devices
Mileage readings
•Million-mile odometer
•Two (A/B) re-settable trip mileage (0-9999.9)
•Re-settable service mileage (0-9999 countdown)
•Range (fuel) to empty

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Performance readings
Each of the can be manually reset during Normal Operation*
•High speed recall.
•High RPM recall.
•0-60 MPH (0-100 km/h) time.
•¼ mile time and end speed (trap speed).
•⅛mile time and end speed (trap speed).
Hour meter
•Resettable hours (0-999.9)
English/metric conversion
•Configurable speed and temperature readings can be displayed
Built-in Indicators
•Standard Analog gauge and Digital warnings
•High visibility, configurable warning LED
•Left/Right Turn signals
•High Beam, Check Engine, Brake, Cruise Control
•4x4 indicator (Configurable with custom label)
•Wait to start indicator (Configurable with custom label)
•Gear position w/ use of Dakota Digital GSS universal gear shift kit (purchased separately)
•Two extra indicators (EX+, EX-) inputs with customizable labels
Built-in Audible feedback
•Warning notification and User Interface feedback
•Fully configurable: on/off, volume, tone, notification style
•No additional wiring or mounting requirements
Special outputs
•RPM shift output to activate external light
•Selectable 2000ppm or 4000ppm speed output for cruise or ECM
•Buffered tachometer output for cruise control
•User configurable Control Box warning output
Demonstration mode
•Automatically cycle through the configured GRAFIX layouts and colors
Camera interface
•Standard composite video input w/ multiple user definable trigger options
•Can be used for backup camera (sold separately)
G-force/accelerometer display
Bus Interface Module (BIM) capable
•Interface to Dakota Digital’s full line of expansion modules
Update Port
•Field update capable (Themes, Instrument Cluster, and Control Box software)
•Custom Startup Image download
•Standard interface connector (flash thumb drive not included)
*Note: Normal Operation is defined as no menu items or warning boxes being displayed on
the Instrument Cluster.

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General Information
WARNING
These are precision instruments and must be handled with care. Do not disassemble gauges.
Never open the system as there is the risk of electrostatic damage to the
sensitive internal circuits. There is also the risk of getting dust or other
contaminants on the TFT(s) or behind the lens.
Care and Cleaning
The tinted lens on the front of the GRAFIX system can be cleaned with a mild soap and water
solution or common glass cleaners on a damp cloth. Use a soft cloth such as a micro-fiber for wiping
the lens clean.
GRAFIX System Installation
Most GRAFIX systems and kits will come with a separate instruction document with Instrument
Cluster mounting details for the particular vehicle application. Follow the installation document for
mounting the GRAFIX Instrument Cluster in the vehicle, and then refer to this manual for wiring and
operation instructions.
Control Box Mounting
Once the Instrument Cluster is in place, mount the Control Box within reach of the supplied
display cable (approximately three (3) feet). The decision will need to be made whether the onboard
GPS receiver and its associated GRAFIX features will be used. If the GPS receiver in the Control
Box will be required, and use of the internal satellite antenna is desired, a location that allows
adequate reception should be identified. See the SYSTEM-INFO-GPS section in this manual for
more specific GPS use and Control Box mounting guidelines. Also, be sure to choose a mounting
location that will allow you proper access in order to wire all of the inputs on either side of the Control
Box. Double sided tape, hook and loop fasteners or screws in the two tabs on the case work fine for
securing the Control Box under the dash.
The GRAFIX Control Box also includes a built-in audible tone generator, which is primarily
used for system warning notification. If the expectation is to be able to hear the tones, attention
should be paid to the Control Box mounting location, so as to make sure the sound is not blocked or
dampened –thus restricting the ability to hear the alarms.
Note: When selecting a mounting location, avoid placing the Control Box module next to or
just opposite of the firewall from ignition components, i.e.: Ignition coil, HEI, etc. Ignition
components can emit tremendous amounts of electrical noise, affecting the operation of
electrical components which can cause erratic operation. Also, avoid mounting the Control
Box where it may get wet.

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Wiring
While the Control Box contains several connections, the wiring is straightforward. Depending on how
many auxiliary functions the user wants displayed, not every terminal will be used in most
applications. On the pages that follow, we describe the function of each terminal, what they do, and
how to wire them. To get up and running quickly, see the supplied GRAFIX QUICK START GUIDE.
Below is a simplified block diagram showing Control Box connections in a typical application.

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Terminal Descriptions
UPDATE Port
The UPDATE port found on the top side of the GRAFIX Control Box is used to keep the installed
GRAFIX up to date with all the latest system enhancements and new features from Dakota Digital –
without removing either the Control Box or the Instrument Cluster from the vehicle.
•To update the Control Box software with the Control Box wired in a vehicle, follow these simple
directions:
oFormat a flash thumb drive with FAT/FAT16 or FAT 32
oDownload the latest Control Box update file from Dakota Digital, and load it on to the
formatted flash thumb drive
oTurn the ignition switch to the ‘OFF’ position, i.e. no power on the IGNITION PWR
terminal (+12V ACCESSORY POWER)
oDisconnect the +12 VOLT CONSTANT POWER INPUT to the Control Box either by
removing the wire to the Control Box terminal, or disconnecting the battery terminal on
the vehicle (disconnecting the battery may be preferred)
oInsert the thumb drive with the downloaded update file in to the UPDATE port
oApply +12V to the CONSTANT power pin by reconnecting the battery.
oThe STATUS LED on the Control Box will flash and then turn ‘steady’ red as the file
transfer is taking place.
oWhen the STATUS LED starts to flash, the transfer is complete
oTurn the ignition switch ‘on’ to confirm the GRAFIX does function normally

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•To update the GRAFIX Instrument Cluster software, see the MAIN-SYSTEM-UPDATE section
below for details on downloading and installing Instrument Cluster update files (themes,
operational software, custom startup images, etc.)
STATUS LED
•This LED is located at the corner of the Control Box, near the DISPLAY CABLE connections.
The LED is used for diagnostics and for a quick visual check if power is present.
•A steady green flash indicates the system is powered and operating normally.
•An alternating red and yellow flash indicates the system is in setup mode.
•A short red flash once every three seconds indicates the 12 VDC CONSTANT terminal is
powered and the system is in stand-by mode.
•A solid green indicates there is no Instrument Cluster detected.
•Not flashing or lighting indicates loss of power or ground.
BT LED
•This LED is located at the corner of the Control Box, near the DIM ADJ connections. The LED
is used for checking the Bluetooth module status.
•A single blue flash indicates the module is in standby waiting to connect to a device.
•Two blue flashes indicate the module is currently connected to a device.
•No light indicates the Bluetooth module is powered down. (see MAIN-SETUP-BLUETOOTH)
DISPLAY CABLE connections (2)
•There are two (2) DISPLAY CABLE connections found on the Control Box module. To ease
installation and cable routing, either connection can be used to connect the 8 pin cable from
the Instrument Cluster. If an optional clock module is included in the GRAFIX installation, it
too can connect to either of these connections.
GROUND
•This is the main ground for the GRAFIX system. A wire should be run from this terminal to the
vehicle’s main chassis ground. Use 18 AWG or larger wire to ensure sufficient grounding.
Proper vehicle grounding is extremely important for any gauge (or electronics) to operate
correctly. The engine block should have heavy ground cables to the battery, frame, firewall,
and body. Failure to properly ground the engine block or the Control Box can cause
incorrect or erratic operation.
12 VDC CONSTANT
•Connect the 12 VDC CONSTANT terminal to a fused +12V power source that is ‘hot’ all of the
time. This is typically a connection from the fuse panel, or a fused wire directly to the battery.
This terminal should have power all of the time and should be a fused 5 - 20 amp circuit. The
GRAFIX system draws less than 5 amps, so sharing an existing constant power circuit will
generally be fine. Use 18 AWG wire or larger to ensure the GRAFIX system receives sufficient
power. This constant +12V terminal keeps the clock memory powered when the key is off. If
the GPS satellite signal is used for speed detection or calibration, this terminal pin keeps the
satellite location active for up to 2 weeks after the key is turned off. This allows for faster GPS
speed detection when the system is powered back on and the vehicle requires the
speedometer reading.
IGNITION PWR
•Connect the IGNITION PWR terminal to accessory +12V power from the fuse panel or vehicle
wiring harness. This terminal should have power when the key is on or in the ‘accessory’
position. In addition to turning on the Instrument Cluster, this is also where the voltmeter
gauge senses the vehicle electrical system voltage. The accessory +12V supply source should
be a fused 5 - 20 amp circuit. This terminal draws less than 1 amp, so sharing an existing

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accessory circuit will generally be fine. Use an 18 AWG wire to ensure the system receives a
sufficient power feed.
*** Never connect any power terminal to a battery charger alone. The system needs to
have a 12 volt battery connected to it. Battery chargers have an unregulated voltage
output that will cause the system to not operate properly and may cause damage to the
Control Box.
TACH
•Connect the TACH terminal to the ignition system
oOn vehicles using a separate ignition coil, connect to the negative side of the coil. The
negative side of the coil will be the wire that goes to the points or electronic ignition module.
oFor GM HEI ignition equipped engines, connect to the terminal marked “TACH” or on some
systems, a single white wire with a spade terminal on it.
oOn some aftermarket ignition systems, connect to the TACH output terminal.
oOn computer controlled ignition systems, consult a service manual for the wire color and
location.
oWith a magneto system, connect to the kill wire for the tach signal.
oIf using a BIM-01-x module for the tach reading nothing will connect to this terminal.
•To ensure that the ignition system does not interfere with any other dashboard functions, do
not run the tachometer wire alongside any other sensor or input wires. DO NOT USE SOLID
CORE SPARK PLUG WIRES WITH THIS DASHBOARD SYSTEM. Solid core ignition wires
cause a large amount of electromagnetic and radio frequency interference which can disrupt
the system operation. Do not connect the TACH terminal to the secondary, or high
voltage, side of the ignition coil.
•The tachometer is compatible with almost all gasoline engines. The engine cylinder selection,
display update rate, tach signal type, and RPM warning point can be adjusted in the SETUP
menu under “TACH”. If a diesel engine is being used, you will need a tach interface such as
Dakota Digital’s SGI-100BT. Be aware of the cylinder setting when using computer outputs or
reading the tach signal from an ECU. Some GM LS-based engines require the tach to be set
up for a 4 cylinder, low voltage signal when reading from the ECU even though it is a V8
engine.
TACH WARN
•The TACH WARN terminal is an output to activate a small light or relay for a red-line or shift
indicator. The output is ground-activated when the preset warn RPM limit is exceeded. This
output can turn on a 4 Watt or smaller 12V bulb or can activate a relay to turn on a larger bulb
or buzzer. To wire a warning light to this output, connect one wire from the bulb to 12 volt
accessory power and connect the other wire to the TACH WARN terminal.

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•If you need the warn output to be “active high” or provide a +12V voltage to power something
larger than 4 Watt, a standard 12V relay such as Dakota Digital RLY-1 can be used to
accomplish this.
WARN OUT
•The WARN OUT terminal is an output to activate a small light or relay for a gauge warning
indicator. Alternatively, it can be used to activate reverse lights when using a GSS-3000 or
BIM-01 when in the REVERSE gear position. The output is ground-activated when any of the
activated gauge warnings are exceeded. This output can turn on a 4 Watt or smaller 12V bulb
or can activate a relay to turn on a larger bulb or buzzer. To wire a warning light to this output,
connect one wire from the bulb to 12 volt accessory power and connect the other wire to the
WARN OUT terminal.
•If you need the warn output to be “active high” or provide a +12V voltage to power something
larger than 4 Watt, a standard 12V relay can be used to accomplish this.