Racelogic VBOX3i User manual

VBOX3i
100Hz GPS Data Logger
User Guide

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Contents
EC declaration of conformity ......................................................................................................5
Introduction...............................................................................................................................5
Features.....................................................................................................................................5
Inputs/outputs...........................................................................................................................6
Standard inventory ....................................................................................................................6
Optional accessories ..................................................................................................................6
Quickstart guide.........................................................................................................................7
Operation ..................................................................................................................................8
Power.............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Buttons ........................................................................................................................................................................... 8
LOG .................................................................................................................................................................................................8
FUNC...............................................................................................................................................................................................8
Default setup ..................................................................................................................................................................................8
Logging............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Log continuously:............................................................................................................................................................................9
Log only when moving:...................................................................................................................................................................9
Advanced: .......................................................................................................................................................................................9
LED indicators ................................................................................................................................................................. 9
SATS: ...............................................................................................................................................................................................9
DIFF/DGPS: ...................................................................................................................................................................................10
PWR: .............................................................................................................................................................................................10
D IN:..............................................................................................................................................................................................10
CAN:..............................................................................................................................................................................................10
SER:...............................................................................................................................................................................................10
BLUETOOTH: .................................................................................................................................................................................10
CF:.................................................................................................................................................................................................10
LOG: ..............................................................................................................................................................................................10
IMU: (VB3i V2/V3 only).................................................................................................................................................................10
Memory cards............................................................................................................................................................... 10
GPS antenna ................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Satellite elevation mask................................................................................................................................................ 11
Analogue and digital outputs (AD1 & AD2) .................................................................................................................. 12
Digital inputs (D IN)....................................................................................................................................................... 12
Analogue inputs (A IN).................................................................................................................................................. 13
RS232 serial / CAN ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
VCI CAN input (vehicle CAN interface)..........................................................................................................................................15
CAN termination ...........................................................................................................................................................................15
CAN pass through ......................................................................................................................................................... 15
CANVEL ......................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Dynamic modes ............................................................................................................................................................ 16
USB................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Bluetooth ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Pairing your computer with the VBOX3i.......................................................................................................................................17
Audio............................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Recording a sound wav.................................................................................................................................................................17
VBO file format ............................................................................................................................................................. 17
VBOXTools software ................................................................................................................18
Software installation..................................................................................................................................................... 18
Local DGPS Basestation ............................................................................................................18
Enabling the DGPS modes ............................................................................................................................................ 18

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IMU integration .......................................................................................................................19
Required equipment..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Setup............................................................................................................................................................................. 19
Hardware Setup ............................................................................................................................................................ 20
Initialisation .................................................................................................................................................................. 20
LED indicators (VB3i V2/V3)..........................................................................................................................................................20
LED indicators (VB3i V1) ...............................................................................................................................................................20
Kalman Filter calibration –High dynamic tests ............................................................................................................ 21
Recommended procedure ............................................................................................................................................................21
Re-running the calibration............................................................................................................................................................21
What happens if this isn’t done? ..................................................................................................................................................21
Additional IMU channels (IMU04 only) ........................................................................................................................ 22
IMU Attitude.................................................................................................................................................................................22
RMS Channels ...............................................................................................................................................................................22
Using IMU as CAN module........................................................................................................22
Required equipment..................................................................................................................................................... 22
Setup............................................................................................................................................................................. 22
Mounting the IMU ...................................................................................................................23
Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................24
VBOX3i V3 specification ...........................................................................................................25
Connection data.......................................................................................................................26
Analogue input connector V1/V2..............................................................................................27
Analogue input connector V3 ...................................................................................................27
CAN output ..............................................................................................................................28
Upgrading VBOX3i firmware.....................................................................................................29
How to upgrade the firmware ...................................................................................................................................... 29
Contact details .........................................................................................................................29

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EC declaration of conformity
We declare that this product has been tested to and meet the requirements of:
EC directive 2004/104/EC
“Adapting to technical progress council directive 72/245/EEC relating to the radio interference (electromagnetic
compatibility) of vehicles and amending directive 70/156/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the member states
relating to the type-approval of motor vehicles and their trailers.”
And has also been assessed, via technical construction File, by an independent DTI competent body and found to be in
conformance with the essential requirements of:
EC directive 89/336/EEC (and amending directives)
“Council directive of 03 May 1989 on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to electromagnetic
compatibility.”
DTI competent body responsible for issuing certificate of compliance:
3C Test Ltd,
Silverstone Technology Park,
Silverstone,
Northants
NN12 8GX
Introduction
The VBOX3i represents the 3rd generation of GPS data logging system from Racelogic. Using a powerful GPS engine,
the VBOX3i can log GPS and other data at 100Hz. The logged data is stored directly onto a compact flash card for easy
transfer to a PC.
The VBOX3i also includes 4 high-resolution analogue input channels to record data from external sensors and 2 CAN
bus interfaces to allow connection of Racelogic input modules while simultaneously transmitting GPS data on the
second bus.
In line with previous VBOX models, the VBOX3i is compatible with all of the existing peripherals including the
multifunction display, ADC03, TC8, FIM03 and YAW rate sensor. To use the IMU integration feature of the VBOX3i an
IMU03 / IMU04 module is required.
Features
IMU integration with GPS data
Compact flash interface
6.75ms latency
2 x 16bit User configurable analogue outputs
4 x 24bit synchronous differential analogue inputs ±50v
2 x Digital outputs
Brake/Event trigger input of 10ns resolution
Brake trigger Input with 100KHz scan rate
Voice tagging of data
Wide 7V to 30V operating range *See Note
2 x CAN bus interface
Low current consumption
RS-232 serial interface
Logging rate selectable from 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 or 1Hz
USB interface
Can be used with a differential BaseStation for
positional accuracies of up to 2cm**
Bluetooth interface
*RACELOGIC external modules operate from a 12v vehicle supply. Therefore, when using external modules, VBOX supply must not exceed 15vDC
**2cm 95% CEP positional accuracy, (requiring RTK VBOX upgrade and RTK enabled Basestation)

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Inputs/outputs
Standard inventory
Description
Qty
RL Part #
Description
Qty
Racelogic Part #
VBOX3i data logger
1
RLVB3I-V2
Serial PC cable
1
RLCAB001
Mains power supply
1
RLVBACS020
25 Way D connector
1
ADC25IPCON
Cigar lighter power supply
1
RLCAB010L
VBOX3i audio headset
1
RLACS120
GPS magnetic antenna
1
RLACS158
VB3I Bluetooth antenna
1
RLACS119
4GB compact flash card
1
RLACS098
USB A –mini Lead 2m
1
RLCAB066-2
USB multi card reader
1
RLACS163
VBOX padded carry case
1
RLVBACS013V4
VBOX Tools installation CD
1
RLVBACS030
Optional accessories
Description
RL Part #
Description
RL Part #
Brake pedal trigger
RLVBACS004
8 Channel thermocouple interface
RLVBTC8
Hand-held brake trigger
RLVBACS009
Can to analogue output module
RLVBDAC01
Logging start/stop switch
RLVBACS010
Single YAW rate sensor + 2 axis G sensor
RLVBYAW03
Multifunction display
RLVBDSP03
Inertial measurement unit. 3 YAW rate
sensors & 3 accelerometers*
RLVBIMU03
8 Channel (16bit) analogue interface
RLVBADC03
Inertial Measurement Unit. 3 Yaw Rate
Sensors & 3 accelerometers*
RLVBIMU04
4 Channel frequency input module
RLVBFIM03
RTCM DGPS Basestation for 40cm
positional accuracy
RLVBBS4
16 Channel vehicle CAN interface
RLVBCAN02
RTK DGPS Basestation for 2cm positional
accuracy
RLVBBS4RG
*RLVBIMU03/04 required for IMU integration

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Quickstart guide
Required equipment (All supplied as standard unless specified)
VBOX3i
RS232 cable
Cigar lighter 12v adapter lead
VBOX software CD
GPS antenna
Laptop PC (not supplied)
Blank compact flash card
1. Mount the VBOX3i GPS antenna in a suitable position on the roof of the vehicle. The ideal position is
in the centre of the roof away from any objects that may shadow the GPS signal such as roof bars. This
creates a large metal object underneath the antenna to shield it from signals reflected by the ground
that can cause multi-path errors.
NB: See troubleshooting section if having difficulty obtaining satellite lock.
2. Screw the gold SMA connector on the antenna cable firmly onto the VBOX3i 'GPS' socket, making sure that the socket on the
VBOX3i is free from any contamination.
NB: It is important to connect the antenna to the VBOX3i before power is connected. The VBOX3i adjusts the signal gain to the
antenna based on the current incoming GPS signal strength.
3. Connect the power connector to the socket marked ‘PWR’ on the VBOX3i. .
When power is connected, the red ‘PWR’ LED will illuminate and all of the other LEDS will flash once then go off.
4. Allow the VBOX3i time to acquire satellite lock (This should take no longer than a few minutes.) before moving off to log data.
It is good practice to do this at the beginning of your day; after you have done this satellites will be instantly picked up and
locked onto, even after periods of the power being switched off or overhead obstructions blocking the view of the sky.
If the VBOX3i has not been used for a long time or if it was last used many miles from its current location, it may take time to
find satellite lock. If this situation arises perform a GPS coldstart to reset the GPS engine.
NB: See troubleshooting section for more info on carrying out a GPS coldstart.
5. The ‘GPS’ LED will be lit solid red when no satellite lock has been obtained, once the VBOX3i gets a lock on visible satellites,
the ‘GPS’ LED will flash green to indicate the number satellites. At a normal test track facility you should expect to see between 7
and 12 satellites being received by the VBOX3i. When the VBOX3i has a lock on 4 or more satellites then the VBOX3i is ready to
use.
NB: If fewer than 7 satellites are consistently seen the position of the GPS antenna on the vehicle may not be ideal, or the
nature of the test surroundings may not be ideal; see troubleshooting section on antenna positioning.
6. Now simply drive the vehicle. In the VBOX3i’s default mode it will log all data when the vehicle is moving at a speed above 0.5
Kmh and stop recording when the vehicle’s speed goes below 0.5 kmh.
The blue CF LED on the front panel of the VBOX3i will flash to indicate when data is being logged to the CF card.
7. When you have finished your first test with the VBOX3i come to a halt, wait until the blue CF LED stops flashing before
removing the CF card. Logging can be stopped at any time by pressing the ‘LOG’ button to close the current file.
NB: If the IMU integration feature of the VBOX3i is to be used refer to the ‘IMU Integration’ section later in this manual.

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Operation
Power
Included with the VBOX3i is a cigar lighter power cable, which is the primary source of power input. This is terminated
in a 2-way connector and mates with the 2-way ‘PWR’ socket on the VBOX3i.
The VBOX3i can be powered from a wide range of voltage sources, when considering batteries as a power source
please note that the minimum operating voltage of the VBOX3i is 7V. The maximum operating voltage input must not
exceed 30V DC. Failure to observe this could result in damage to the VBOX.
Warning
The VBOX can be connected to other Racelogic input modules including the ADC03, ADC02, TC8, FIM02/3
and multifunction display. Please note that the voltage supply to Racelogic modules connected to the VBOX
will be at the same level as the VBOX power input. Therefore when using any of the Racelogic peripherals
with VBOX3i, the input voltage must not exceed 15 volts. Failure to observe this could result in damage to
the module and possibly the VBOX3i.
When running the VBOX from a battery pack, the VBOX will sound a warning tone to indicate when the battery
voltage is reaching the minimum operating voltage level. When this tone is heard, the battery pack requires re-
charging or replacing.
The VBOX3i has been designed to generate as little heat as possible and it has a wide operating temperature range,
however it is good practice to mount the VBOX3i in a position where it has sufficient airflow around the case.
You must connect the GPS antenna before connecting power to the VBOX3i. This is necessary because on power-up
the VBOX3i will look for a connected GPS antenna and automatically adjust its gain for optimum performance.
Buttons
VBOX3i has two membrane buttons on the front panel, LOG and FUNC. LOG is used to start and stop logging to the
compact flash card, and FUNC is used to switch between two sample rates, 100Hz and 20Hz.
LOG
The LOG button will override any of the automatic logging thresholds set in the VBOX. For example, if you have set the
VBOX to log all the time, the LOG button will toggle logging on and off. If you have set the VBOX to ’log only when
moving’ and you are moving, pressing the LOG button will stop the VBOX logging and close the file on the compact
flash. Logging will now not continue even if you are moving until the LOG button is pressed again or the compact flash
card is removed and reinserted. The VBOX will then continue to log only when moving.
- Every time the logging is toggled with the LOG button, a new file is created.
- When the VBOX is logging, the blue CF light flashes.
- Do not remove the CF card or power down whilst this LED is flashing, if you need to remove the card or power
down whilst the CF light is flashing, then press the LOG button first to stop the VBOX logging. Failure to do so will
result in data loss or corruption.
FUNC
Pressing the FUNC button briefly flashes the LED’s to indicate the current sample rate. A slow flash (once per second)
on all the LED’s indicates 20Hz, and rapid flashing (5 times a second) indicates a 100Hz sample rate. A running
sequence of lights indicates a sample rate other than 100Hz or 20Hz. Pressing and holding the FUNC button for 5
seconds toggles the current sample rate. The sample rate can also be set in the VBOX software.
Default setup
The default factory settings are restored to the VBOX by pressing and holding the FUNC and LOG buttons for 5
seconds. This will put the VBOX3i into the default factory settings, 100Hz logging when moving, and the standard
logging parameters: sats, time, latitude, longitude, velocity, heading, height, vertical velocity, and brake trigger event
time. (DGPS will be off by default.).

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Logging
The VBOX3i has three logging modes that are selected and configured via VBOX setup with the supplied VBOXTools
software.
Log continuously:
With ‘log continuously’ ticked the VBOX will log data, regardless of movement.
Log only when moving:
Without ‘log continuously’ ticked then the VBOX will only log data to the CF card when it detects speed >0.5Km/h.
Advanced:
The advanced logging option on the VBOX3i allows any of the logged data channels to be used to trigger the logging
on the VBOX.
This is selected and configured through VBOX setup of the supplied VBOXTools software.
This facility allows a threshold value to be set as either > or < so that the logging will start or stop when a data value is
exceeded or not.
Multiple data channels can be combined in a Boolean ‘OR’ manner to control the logging.
LED indicators
There are a series of LED indicators on the front panel of the VBOX3i, their functionality is as follows:
SATS:
Flashing red indicates no satellites in view
Flashing green sequence indicates the number of GPS satellites currently being tracked. Each flash indicates a
satellite with a short pause between each sequence.
Flashing orange sequence indicates the number of GLONASS Satellites currently being tracked. Each flash
indicates a satellite with a short pause between each sequence.
Sequence showing 1 Satellite
1
1
1
1
Sequence showing 4 Satellites
Delay
1
2
3
4
Delay
1
2
3
4
Sequence showing 0 Satellites
Delay (Approximately 1 second )
Delay (Approximately 1 second )

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DIFF/DGPS:
Solid orange indicates a DGPS lock (either WAAS/EGNOS or 40cm local DGPS)
Solid green indicates a 2cm ‘Fixed’ RTK lock
PWR:
Solid green indicates that a suitable power source is connected.
Solid red indicates that the VBOX is not ready to operate either because it is still booting up or because there
is an error condition.
D IN:
Solid green indicates that the brake trigger input has been activated/triggered.
CAN:
Flashing yellow indicates that expected incoming CAN data has been decoded properly and is being logged.
Flashing green indicates that there is incoming serial traffic through this socket.
SER:
Flashing yellow indicates that expected incoming CAN data has been decoded properly and is being logged.
Flashing green indicates that there is incoming Serial traffic through this socket.
BLUETOOTH:
V1 Bluetooth module - Flashing blue indicates Bluetooth is waiting for a connection.
V2 Bluetooth module –Flashing blue indicates Bluetooth is initialising coms with a Bluetooth device.
Solid blue indicates the VBOX3i has a Bluetooth connection with another Bluetooth device.
CF:
Flashes blue when data is being written to the card
LOG:
Solid green when data is being logged to the CF card.
Flashes red indicating current logging rate after ‘FUNC’ button press, fast for 100Hz, slow for 20Hz
IMU: (VB3i V2/V3 only)
Solid orange indicates that IMU integration is enabled but no IMU is connected.
Flashing orange shows IMU is connected and integration initialisation is running. This will not complete until
the VB3i has had a satellite lock whilst stationary for 30 seconds.
Flashing green indicates Initialisation complete –movement not yet detected.
Solid green indicates movement detected –IMU integration working OK.
Memory cards
The VBOX3i stores logged data onto CF cards. The CF cards available from Racelogic are already optimised for use on
the VBOX3i and as such do not need formatting before use. Should the CF Card need formatting due to card errors it
can be done through Windows, as the VBOX3i supports the following format type:
FAT
FAT16
FAT32
Racelogic strongly recommends the following media card brands:
SanDisk
Kingston
Lexar
Ultra
PQi

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GPS antenna
The GPS antenna supplied with the VBOX3i is a 5V active antenna. For the best possible signal quality, it is important
to maintain a clean connection between the antenna and the VBOX3i. Before fixing the antenna to the VBOX3i, ensure
that there are no dust particles in either connector. Replacement antennae are available by contacting your VBOX3i
distributor.
The antenna is a magnetic mounting type for quick and simple mounting to the vehicle roof. For optimum GPS signal
reception, make sure that the antenna is fitted to the highest point of the vehicle away from any obstructions that
may block satellite reception. The GPS antenna works best with a metal ground plane underneath (a metallic vehicle
roof is perfect for this).
Please also note that when using any GPS equipment, a clear sky view is important. Objects in the surrounding area
such as tall buildings or trees can block the GPS signal causing a reduction in the number of satellites being tracked, or
introducing reflected signals that can decrease the accuracy of the system. Note that clouds and other atmospheric
conditions do not affect the VBOX3i’s performance.
GPS antennas require a ground plane to operate correctly. This
helps to reduce unwanted reflections of the GPS signal caused by
nearby objects, and usually the metal roof of a vehicle performs
this function. However, if a test requires an antenna to be placed
either off the vehicle, or on a vehicle that does not have a metallic
roof, a special ground plane antenna must be used. This has an
internal ground plane and can operate perfectly without the need
for mounting on a metal surface. Ground plane antennas are
available from your VBOX3i distributor.
Satellite elevation mask
This feature can be used to improve GPS signal quality when nearby obstacles like trees and building are reflecting or
temporarily obscuring the signal from satellites at low elevation. Raising the mask will cause the GPS engine to ignore
satellites below the mask angle, so must be used carefully as it also reduces the total number of received satellites.
The elevation mask angle can be changed in the GPS section within VBOX Tools Setup.
VBOX Tools
Version 2.2.2b42 and above now has an option to change the SEM value for the VBOX3i series.

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Analogue and digital outputs (AD1 & AD2)
The AD1 and AD2 connectors each have 1 analogue voltage and 1 digital output. The digital output on connector AD2
is a frequency/pulse output corresponding to velocity. The pulse per meter range is adjustable in software. The digital
output on connector AD1 is a simple on/off state output. This digital output can be associated with any of the data
channels being logged by the VBOX. A threshold level can be set for the selected data channel where a true condition
gives a 5v output and a false condition gives a 0v.
I.e. Data channel –Speed, threshold 40Km/h. When speed is >40 output = 5V, speed, 40 output = 0V
A hysteresis and tolerance value can also be associated to this condition.
The default function of this digital output is to indicate the current logging status of the VBOX.
The analogue outputs on connectors AD1 and AD2 are both user configurable. For example, analogue output 1 could
be configured to output velocity while analogue output 2 might be configured to output lateral acceleration. The
voltage range of both analogue outputs is 0 to 5v DC.
Digital inputs (D IN)
The ‘D IN’ connector contains the two digital inputs for the VBOX3i. Digital input 1 is also referred to as the brake
trigger input. This input is connected to an event capture input on the GPS engine. This captures precisely the trigger
event time (10nS resolution) for use in brake distance calculation. This period of time is called the trigger event time,
and is logged and used to correct the measured brake stop distance to the exact point at which the trigger was
pressed.
A hand-held brake trigger is also available to allow the user to record marker events in the VBOX3i data file.
A remote logging on/off switch is also available for ease of use and when the front panel switch is not accessible.

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Analogue inputs (A IN)
The VBOX3i contains four differential 24bit analogue input channels with a maximum sample rate of 100Hz. Each
channel has its own dedicated analogue to digital (A/D) converter with all four channels being sampled synchronously
to each other. The voltage range of the input channels is ±50volts. Note that unlike the ADC03 module, the analogue
channels in the VBOX3i are not electrically isolated from each other.
The analogue input connector also contains voltage outputs that can be used to power external sensors. These are a
Vbatt connection which is equal to the VBOX input voltage level and a 5V DC out connection which is equal to 5V ±2%.
The 5V out connection is internally protected by 350mA thermal fuse. The Vbatt connection is internally protected by
a 200mA thermal fuse on V2/V3 units, and 100mA fuse on V1 units. For connector pin configuration see page 16. A
screw-terminal connector block is available as an option for easy connection of signal pins.
Using the VBOXTools software, logging of the analogue channel data can be switched on or off. It is also possible to
change the name of each input channel and configure scale and offset values for calibration of sensors. A scale value
of 1 and offset of 0 correspond to a channel reading in volts DC. This means that the value stored on the compact flash
card for the channel will also be in volts. When using a sensor such as a load cell, it may be desirable to store a reading
in Kg. In this case, changing the scale and offset to suit the sensor data sheet allows the data stored onto the compact
flash to be in Kg. When changing settings for an analogue channel using VBOXTools software, a live data view of the
current channel is shown. The value shown is the value after scale and offset is applied and can therefore be used to
aid sensor calibration.
NOTE: The 5V regulated output on pin16 is only good for VBOX power supply voltages >8.5V
Using VBOXTools software, logging of the analogue channel data can be switched on or off. It is also possible to
change the name of each input channel and configure scale and offset values for calibration of sensors.
A scale value of 1 and offset of 0 correspond to a channel reading in volts DC. This means that the value stored on the
compact flash card for the channel will also be in volts. When
using a sensor such as a load cell, it may be desirable to store a
reading in Kg. In this case, changing the scale and offset to suit
the sensor data sheet allows the data stored onto the compact
flash to be in Kg. When changing channel setup for an analogue
channel using VBOX Tools software, a live data view of the
current channel is shown. The value shown is the value after scale
and offset is applied and can therefore be used to aid sensor
calibration.
500Hz logging
VB3i has the ability to log 4x analogue channels at 500Hz. With
this feature enable the file sizes will increase as a result.
When loading the VBO file into VBOX Tools ensure you are
running the very latest version as older versions are not
compatible with 500Hz data.
Note: A 25W D-sub to 4W BNC adaptor
block is available through your VBOX
distributor, part number RLVBACS054

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RS232 serial / CAN
VBOX3i is equipped with 2 CAN Bus interfaces and 2 RS232 serial ports. The primary RS232 port is used for all
communication between the VBOX and laptop PC. The primary port is marked RS232 on the VBOX3i front panel. The
primary RS232 port is able to transmit live data from the VBOX to the PC for viewing and performing real-time tests. It
is important to note however that due to limitations of the PC serial port, live data transfer of all channels is limited to
20Hz, at 50Hz only standard GPS channels should be transmitted, and at 100Hz only Sats, Time, Speed, and Trigger
Event Time should be transmitted. Logging too many channels at too high a rate is likely to cause drop-outs and loss of
data.
Therefore for maximum accuracy, tests performed at a GPS sample rate above 20Hz should be logged to compact
flash and post processed.
The secondary RS232 port is used for connection to a Telemetry Radio module allowing the reception of Differential
GPS (DGPS) data for local correction from a Racelogic Local DGPS basestation. The secondary RS232 port is located in
the connector marked CAN on the VBOX3i front panel.
The CAN Bus ports A and B are located in the VBOX3i connectors “CAN” and “RS232” respectively. The function of
these ports is configurable by the user for use by either Racelogic external modules or the users own CAN Bus
equipment. For dual use of RS232 and CAN from one of the sockets you will require a 5Way Lemo splitter
RLVBACS024.
Power supplied to external Racelogic CAN modules through the “CAN” or “RS232” cables is at the same voltage as
the input power supply. Therefore when using Racelogic external CAN modules (eg; MFD or ADC03), the VBOX3i
supply voltage must not exceed 15vDC.

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VCI CAN input (vehicle CAN interface)
The VBOX3i can log up to 16 user defined CAN bus signals on CAN port B. Configuration is performed using the VCI
modules tab under log channels in VBOXTools software setup window. CAN signal parameters can be entered
manually by the user or imported directly from a CAN database (.DBC) file if available.
Racelogic supplies a free encrypted vehicle CAN database, giving the user the ability to log basic CAN data from a large
number of current vehicles from a broad selection of manufacturers. All of the CAN database files for vehicles we have
reverse engineered can be downloaded from our website.
CAN termination
The VBOX3i contains an active termination
between 0 Ohms and 120 Ohms, the active
terminations are selectable via VBOXTools as
shown above right.
NOTE: When the Usage of the CAN ports is swapped
from one output socket to the other the termination
resistor setting does not follow. So you should check
that the Termination is correctly set for the output
socket that you are then using.
CAN pass through
Ability to output channel data from modules on
the secondary bus with user defined identifiers.
Eg; VBOX3i can log IMU data on one CAN bus and
output the IMU data to third-party equipment on
second CAN bus with a user defined identifier.
The VBOX3i can output up to 6 CAN messages and
12 CAN channels over the secondary bus.
Note: These output CAN channels will be in a 32
bit IEEE float format. 29 bit extended identifiers
optional.

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CANVEL
If an input channel is given the name “CANVEL” then the VBOX3i will translate the data of this channel directly
through to the GPS speed channel under the following criteria.
IMU integration is not enabled
The VBOX3i cannot calculate speed, i.e. no satellite signal (complete satellite drop out)
The VBOX3i will scale the input channel to the default speed output format of Km/h according to what the units have
been assigned to the substitution speed channel. VBOX3i will recognise the following unit names: MPH, KM/H, KPH,
Knots, m/s, and ms-1.
Note: If no UNITS have been assigned to the
input channel then VBOX3i will assume that it is
KPH
This function is useful while testing around built
up areas or driving under large bridges.
Dynamic modes
The VBOX3iSL has three dynamic modes. These dynamic modes directly change the SMI smoothing index applied by
the GPS engine to all Doppler-derived data, notably speed and heading. The lower smoothing levels have a higher
dynamic response but are adversely noisier.
The three options are:
High dynamics: The ‘High dynamics’ setting should be used for high accuracy trigger brake stops or any test where
time and distance are critical and the vehicle test incorporates highly dynamic manoeuvres.
Normal: The ‘Normal’ mode should only be used for any testing that does
not involve any high dynamic manoeuvres.
Low dynamics: The ‘Low dynamics’ mode can be used for smoother velocity
and heading data and less acceleration noise only in lower dynamic tests.
USB
The VBOX3i includes a USB 2.0 connection that can be used for VBOX configuration and the output of real-time
VBOX3i serial data at the full 100Hz data rate.
Ensure that before you connect your VBOX3i to your PC that you have installed the supplied VBOXTools software, as
this will also put the required USB drivers onto your PC.
The VBOXTools software installation will place the VBOX3i USB drivers in the following location on your computer.
C:\program files\Racelogic\Drivers
These drivers can also be found on the actual VBOXTools installation CD.
When you connect you powered up VBOX3i to your PC with the supplied RLVBCAB066 USB A to USB mini lead your PC
will recognise the presence of new hardware and open the typical Windows install window for new hardware. Follow
the on screen prompts and point the Windows installation to the location of your drivers.
Note: USB drivers are available on the Racelogic website, also installed into C:\program files\Racelogic\Drivers after
VBOX Tools installation.

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Page | 17 22 May 2014
Bluetooth
The VBOX3i comes equipped with a Bluetooth radio allowing configuration of the VBOX remotely along with remote
output of real-time VBOX3i serial data, at the full 100Hz data rate, to any Bluetooth capable PC or Data logger.
Pairing your computer with the VBOX3i
The VBOX3i will need the Bluetooth antenna connected and the computer will require a Bluetooth module or dongle
to establish a virtual connection. VBOX3i will connect to the computer via SPP (serial port profile) this can be done as a
secure or unsecure connection. Note: Pairing code for secure connection is 1234
Audio
Voice tagging
The VBOX3i has the ability to record audio tags with a GPS ‘synched’ timestamp accuracy of 0.5 seconds along with
the .VBO data file. Voice notes regarding test conditions or erroneous runs can be recorded, which can be replayed
instantly when viewing logged files in the graph facility of the VBOXTools software.
A WAV file will be recorded onto the CF card along with the normal VBOX data file.
The supplied headset/microphone includes a switch, which is used to start and stop the recording of an audio tag.
Recording a sound wav
Pressing the headset switch once will sound an audible beep, through the headset, to confirm that recording of the
WAV file has begun.
Pressing the switch for a second time will then stop recording, this will be confirmed by a second beep through the
headset.
If the switch has only been pressed once the VBOX3i will record for 30 seconds then automatically stop recording.
Replaying voice tags in VBOXTools
When a logged VBOX data file .vbo is loaded into VBOXTools and displayed in the Graph screen any associated WAV
files will appear in the speed data trace as green circles provided that the logged file is in the same folder as the
loaded VBOX data file.
Play the associated WAV file by clicking the Green circle.
NOTE: if a Red circle is seen on the graph screen in VBOXTools then the associated WAV file is not present in the same
folder as the loaded VBOX data file.
VBO file format
The VBOX3i data files are saved in standard space
de-limited text format. This allows the data to
easily be imported into third party applications
such as word processors or spreadsheets. The files
each contain a header section before the main
data that describes the channel content and
information about the VBOX such as serial number
and firmware version.
The [column names] parameter specifies the data
in each column of the data section.
An example of a VBOX3i VBO file is shown on the
right.

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Page | 18 22 May 2014
VBOXTools software
The VBOXTools software is used for configuration of the VBOX3i and also for analysis of the VBO data files.
For further information on the VBOXTools software refer to the VBOXTools user manual supplied with VBOX3i.
Software installation
The VBOX3i setup software must be installed
onto the hard drive of a computer; it cannot be
run from the installation CD.
To install the software insert the CD into the CD
drive of your computer. The default installation
language is English. Press ‘OK’ to continue,
then follow the on-screen instructions to
complete the installation.
The VBOX3i setup software is not limited to
one user or computer and can be installed on
multiple workstations if so desired.
Local DGPS Basestation
When the VBOX3i is used in conjunction with a local DGPS Basestation the positional accuracy can be improved from
the standard 3m 95% CEP.
There are two available Basestation options:
40cm positional accuracy:
If the VBOX3i is used with a RTCM-V2 enabled Basestation then the positional accuracy is increased to 40cm 95% CEP.
The height accuracy is improved to 1M 95%CEP
2cm positional accuracy:
If the VBOX3i has an RTK upgrade option installed and is used with a RLVBBS4RG then the positional accuracy is
increased to 2cm.
-Racelogic proprietary 2cm correction (Not compatible with VB3i-SL RTK)
-CMR 2cm correction (Trimble standard message type)
-RTCMv3 2cm correction (RTCM standard message type) RECOMMENDED
RTCMv3 is recommended as the default RTK 2cm correction type. This message format is a globally recognised type
and more resilient to data loss caused by radio errors.
Note:
RLVBOX3iR2G2 has a max log rate of 20Hz when in RTK mode.
RLVBOX3iR10G10 & RLVB3i-SL RTK has a max log rate of 100Hz when in RTK mode.
Enabling the DGPS modes
The VBOX must have the correct DGPS mode enabled in VBOX Tools or VBOX Manager before it is capable of receiving
and using the DGPS correction information transmitted by a Local Basestation.
-Run the latest VBOXTools software
-Enter the VBOX setup screen and go to the GPS page
-Click on the DGPS button and select the correct DGPS mode from the available option
-Close the VBOX setup screen.

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Page | 19 22 May 2014
IMU integration
Required equipment
IMU04
IMU03
VB3i-V3
VB3i (works with all VB3i units)
IMU04
IMU03
VBOX Tools
VBOX Tools
RLCAB119 VBOX –IMU connecting cable
RLCAB005-CS VBOX –IMU connecting cable
RLCAB001 / RLCAB066-2 –VB3i PC connection cable
RLCAB001 / RLCAB066-2 –VB3i PC connection cable
File manager (optional)
File manager (optional)
Setup
Important note: IMU04 must be connected to VB3i before power is applied to ensure data is correctly synchronised.
1. Mount the VB3i and IMU in test vehicle. The IMU should be mounted rigidly to the vehicle mid-way along the
wheelbase in the direction of vehicle travel.
2. Fit VB3i GPS, GPS/GLONASS antenna to centre of vehicles roof. Connect antenna to VB3i.
3. Measure the relative position from the top centre of the GPS antenna to the top centre of the IMU (see mounting
section for more detail) and enter these distances in the highlighted box below.
4. IMU04 –Connect CAN/KF port to VB3i-V3 25W D analogue input port using RLCAB119 cable.
4. IMU03 –Connect either port on IMU to VBOX RL CAN port using RLCAB005-CS cable.
5. After IMU is connected, apply power to VB3i.
6. Connect VB3i to PC using RLCAB001 or RLCAB066-2 cable (RS232 or USB).
7. Open VBOX Tools and VBOX Setup.
8. Tick ‘Use IMU’ box and enter the distances
measured from GPS antenna to the IMU.
Important notes:
1. To use IMU04 integration, a VB3i-V3 must be used. This is an IMU04 enabled unit.
2. IMU04 cannot be used with IMU integration if it is connected to a VBOX via CAN (RLCAB120 / RLCAB005-CS).
This method of connection will only allow standard IMU channels to be logged. See ‘using IMU as CAN module’
section for details.
3. The IMU04 standard channels can also be logged when the IMU04 is connected via KF port with cable
RLCAB119, without enabling IMU integration.

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Page | 20 22 May 2014
Hardware Setup
Initialisation
When using IMU integration, an initialisation phase is required when the IMU is first connected to the VBOX after
being set up. This will be run through automatically after the VBOX has successfully gained satellite lock. When the
IMU LED on VB3i front panel has turned a flashing green, the initialisation is complete. Note, if you are using a VB3i-
V1, which has no IMU LED, read the LED indicators section below for LED behaviour.
LED indicators (VB3i V2/V3)
IMU04
LED
Colour
Red
Orange
Green
Power
Initial boot up
phase.
Temperature checks. If temperature
outside optimum operation range, LED
will remain orange.
Fully operational.
Comms
No coms.
Using IMU integration, inertial data being
sent to host VBOX via RS232.
Inertial data being sent to host system via CAN.
VB3i LED
Colour
Solid Orange
Flashing Orange
Flashing Green
Solid Green
IMU
IMU enabled,
no IMU
connected.
SAT lock OK. 30 second stationary
initialisation in progress. If vehicle
moves, LED will continue to flash until 30
seconds stationary completed.
Initialisation complete –
movement not yet
detected.
Movement detected –
IMU integration working
OK.
LED indicators (VB3i V1)
When the filter is enabled and the IMU is connected, the satellite LED will remain off to act as an indicator for the IMU
integration status. Only when the filter is initialised and movement is detected will the SAT LED return to its normal
operation.
The user will need to leave 1 minute after powering the VBOX on with the IMU connected before starting to move.
This occurs on every power up of the VBOX unit.