Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long will it take me to install and to start using my VPM-100G?

You can start using your VPM-100G in less than a minute after you take it out of the box! Simply locate your vehicle’s Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC) and plug in the VPM-100G. The DLC is standard on all vehicles year 1996 and up. It is usually located under the dash on the driver’s side and should be easily accessible. Using the sturdy mount provided, mount the device to the windshield or to a convenient location on the dashboard. Because of the VPM-100G’s thin profile, other mounting options are possible. The unit can be mounted directly to dashboard, air vents and to other convenient locations.

How is the VPM-100G able to display values from the sensors?

The VPM-100G reads the various sensor values directly from your vehicles Electronic Control Unit (ECU) via the Diagnostic Link Connector port. Modern vehicles use many different sensors in conjunction with the ECU to ensure optimal and efficient operation of the engine for various driving conditions.

Will the VPM-100G work with my vehicle?

The VPM-100G works on all vehicles (cars and light weight trucks), model year 1996 to 2002 and most vehicles model year 2003 and up. If your vehicle is model year 2003 or up please consult the non-compatible vehicles list.

My vehicle is in the list of vehicle not supported by the VPM-100G. Can I still use the VPM-100G?

Yes, all performance functions using the accelerometer will be available (Drag Racing, Results History and G-Force). However, all other functions requiring communication with the vehicle’s ECU won’t be available.

How does the VPM-100G measure the 0-60 mph and ¼ mile times.

The VPM-100G uses high precision accelerometers along with basic calculus, geometrical algebra and numerical integration to perform its measurements. It uses proprietary algorithms to filter the various noise sources and to apply corrections for the dynamic pitch of the vehicle under acceleration.

In a nutshell, the VPM-100G uses the vehicles acceleration to derive the speed and the total distance in a very accurate manner. The VPM-100G not only provides you with the 0-60 mph and ¼ mile times, it also provides, in a single run, all the performance figures shown in the table below:

Milestones (metric)

Screen 1 of 2
20 mph (20 km/h)	time
40 mph (40 km/h)	time
60 mph (60 km/h)	time
80 mph (80 km/h)	time
100 mph (100 km/h)	time

Screen 2 of 2
60 ft. (20 m)	time & speed
330 ft. (100 m)	time & speed
1/8 mile (200 m)	time & speed
1000 ft. (300 m)	time & speed
¼ mile(400 m)	time & speed

 

How accurate is the instantaneous fuel consumption meter?

It is most accurate (within a few percent) when the fuel system is operating in closed loop. When the fuel system operates under this state, the ECU does a really good job at keeping the air/fuel mixture close to the ideal ratio of 14.7:1. This air/fuel ratio is where the catalytic converter operates at its peak efficiency and therefore, lowers emissions. The measurement, on the other hand, becomes less accurate (but still meaningful) when the fuel system is in open-loop state. Open-loop state occurs when the engine is cold or during harder acceleration. In any case, the VPM-100G can help you determine accurately the gear and speed combination which yields the optimum fuel efficiency.

What is the sampling rate of the device?

The sampling rate of the device is variable and depends both on the vehicle’s ECU and on the type of data being monitored. Sampling rates of more than 30Hz are attainable. In addition, special algorithms optimize the refresh rate of the most important sensors.

How is the VPM-100G powered?

The VPM-100G is a plug and play device. It is powered by the vehicle via the Diagnostic Link Connector and requires less than 2 Watts of power. Therefore, it will not drain your vehicle’s battery if left “ON” accidentally overnight.

Is the LCD visible in bright sunlight?

Yes. The LCD was chosen for its high readability and clarity in ALL lighting conditions (including direct sunlight). It has a similar brightness as a Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD).

Do I need to manually calibrate the device before each drag race run?

No, the VPM-100G goes through a self calibrating procedure before each run to adjust for the mounting position. The staging calibration is done automatically and takes less than 2 seconds to complete.

Is there any maintenance required on the VPM-100G?

No maintenance is required on the VPM-100G.

Are there other types of mounting apparatuses available for the VPM-100G?

There are other mounting option for the VPM-100G. See link.

How accurate is the VPM-100G?

The VPM-100G is very accurate. Over the ¼ mile distance, the time and speed accuracies are quantified as ±0.01 seconds and ±0.5 mph. Owing to proprietary algorithms, the VPM-100G can accurately measure your ¼ mile performance even when the unit is tilted.

The algorithms running on Nitrod gauges were optimized with the help of an advanced numerical simulation model and were extensively tested on the track. The accelerometers are factory calibrated in order to operate over a wide temperature range with high accuracy.

What colors are available for the VPM-100G?

The current model comes in a silver/grey metallic finish.

What are the physical dimensions and weight of the VPM-100G?

The device measures 96 mm x 62 mm x 17 mm (3.8” x 2.4” x 0.8”) and weighs 80g (2.8 oz).

How is the VPM-100G shipped?

Please see our shipping information page.

I cannot locate my vehicle’s Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC). How can I find it?

The DLC is usually located under the dashboard close to the steering wheel. The standard specifies that the connector must be within three feet of the driver. In some vehicles the DLC may be located on the passenger’s side and may even be covered.

For more help, please search the following database maintained by the Weber State University. http://obdclearinghouse.com/oemdb/

My maximum horsepower measurement is higher than expected. How is this possible?

This erroneous value will occur under quick/hard shifting and is due to the energy stored in the spinning mechanical parts being transferred to the wheels in a short period of time. For the driver, this is the brief jerk felt while quickly releasing the clutch.

To avoid this problem, the user should perform a horsepower test over a single gear (Same as a Dyno test). For example, begin the run, lightly accelerate and shift to the second gear and then accelerate under WOT (Wide Open Throttle).

For more information see http://nitrod.com/articles/HorsepowerTA.pdf.

If you cannot find the answer to your questions on this website please send us your questions at .