Tripmeter calibration

Calibration of the Classic Tripmeter is an extremely important process that allows precise distance measurements while driving. With calibration, the device is able to interpret the pulses from the speed sensors in the context of the actual distance.

There are two basic ways to calibrate a tripmeter:

  1. Calibration by known distance:
    In this case, a road section of known length is used to measure the distance. After driving this distance, using the buttons on the device, the distance value on the metrometer is set equal to the length of the calibration section. When the value on the tripmeter corresponds to the actual length of the section, the calibration is complete.
  2. Pre-calibration by. calculations:
    This method of calibration involves calculating the calibration value based on the specifications of the vehicle and the sensor. For example, if the sensor generates two pulses per wheel rotation, and the circumference of the wheel is 1930 cm, the calibration value will be 1930cm/2 = 965 cm = 0.965 m. Such a value is then set on the tripmeter.

In the case of a tripmeter with a built-in GPS module, there is additionally the possibility of GPS calibration. This is especially useful when measurements are made without sensors, and the road in the roadbook deviates significantly from the reference measurements.

Remember that accurate calibration is crucial to the precise operation of the tripmeter and requires careful execution. If you have any doubts, it is a good idea to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer.

Definition of the vehicle calibration factor

The vehicle calibration factor is a key element in the accurate measurement of distance by a tripmeter. For the Classic tripmeter, this factor reflects the number of meters covered by the vehicle per pulse read from the speed sensors.

This ratio varies individually for each vehicle and depends on a number of factors, such as the size of the wheels, the number of pulses per wheel rotation generated by the speed sensor, and any differences in the design and installation of the sensors.

The metrometer calibration procedure involves setting this factor so that the values read from the sensors are as close to reality as possible.
The Classic Tripmeter calibration process allows you to configure the calibration factor based on a known distance, and also allows you to make an initial calibration based on calculations.
Remember that regularly checking and adjusting the calibration factor is key to maintaining the accuracy of your tripmeter measurements.

Distance measurement – getting started and preparing for measurements

Measuring distance with the Tripmeter Classic is an extremely simple and intuitive process, thanks to the advanced software and features available on this device.

Preparation for measurements begins with connecting the tripmeter to the vehicle’s power supply. Once properly connected, the device should start automatically, presenting the user with a startup screen.

Next, the tripmeter should be prepared to begin measurements. First, the user should make sure that the tripmeter is properly calibrated – the calibration factor should reflect the current vehicle configuration and driving conditions. The calibration process is described in detail in the tripmeter user manual.
Once the device is properly calibrated, distance measurement can begin. To do this, on the main screen of the tripmeter, select the appropriate mode – commute or race. In commute mode, the user has the option to modify the readout distance value using the +10m/-10m buttons.
Starting distance measurement involves resetting the distance value on the tripmeter screen. After pressing the RESET button on the device, the distance value will be reset to zero, and the tripmeter will start measuring the distance from that point.
From now on, each pulse read from the vehicle’s speed sensors will be converted to meters and summed, presenting the user with the current distance value. Thanks to this, the Metrometer Classic allows precise monitoring of the route traveled, which is extremely important in many forms of automotive activities, such as rallies or offroad.

Once the measurement begins, the Tripmeter Classic automatically counts the distance, converting the received pulses into precise measurements. During the measurement, the user can monitor two values: INTERMEDIATE, which is a variable segment value, and TOTAL, which represents the total distance traveled since the last reset.

The Classic Metrometer is tailored to the needs of different users – you can use it during normal driving, in race mode or in commute mode. Each mode provides precise measurements that can be tailored to the specifics of driving.

When measuring, the user has full control over the process. The +10m and -10m buttons allow you to manually correct the distance, which is extremely useful when you need to adjust your readings to match a map or roadbook. In addition, the Tripmeter Classic offers a VIEW function that allows you to switch the displayed information without interrupting the measurement.
With its rugged design and ease of use, the Tripmeter Classic is an ideal choice for any driver, regardless of experience or type of vehicle. All of this makes measuring distance with the Tripmeter Classic a simple, convenient and reliable process, a key component of successful off-road navigation.

Tripmeter calibration according to known distance
Pre-calibration according to calculations

Calibration of the Classic tripmeter involves entering values into the tripmeter that reflect the passage of one meter. The tripmeter has on e calibration factor value for measuring from pulses. We’ve done it in such a way that you don’t have to count anything. All you need is a piece of road of known distance and a few minutes.

Note: in the version with GPS, the tripmeter has two calibrations. One from pulses and the other from GPS. The GPSd = ON/OFF switch decides which calibration you perform.

Calibration of the tripmeter according to the known distance

Hint: This calibration method is recommended when the tripmeter has had some calibration before. When the tripmeter is new or you anticipate that the calibration value will be significantly different from the previous calibration, look at the Pre-calibration by. calculations. If you do not do this you will be adjusting the calibration value at the end of the episode for a very long time.

Drive to a stretch of road of a length you know. For example, it can be a piece of road that has white posts marking the next 100m.

  • Stop the vehicle at the beginning of the calibration section.
  • Reset the indications of the INTERMEDIATE and TOTALpath.
  • start driving and then stop at the end of the calibration section. The length of the calibration section does not matter.
  • use the buttons: CALIBRATION, FAST , and the +10m and -10m switch to set the distance value equal to your calibration distance (if your distance was 1500m, that’s how much should be set on the meter).
  • Press the CAL button. The RGB LED will turn purple. The calibration factor value will show for 1 second and disappear. ODO will be shown on the screen. Continue to hold the button.
  • Using +/- 10m, increase or decrease the calibration value by 0.00001 (you can’t see it) which automatically recalculates the ODO value (you see it).
  • when you hold +10 or -10 it will start auto-repeat, that is, the calibration value will increase or decrease on its own at a rate of 50m/s.
  • when together with the CAL button and +10m or -10m is pressed the FAST button, the calibration value increment will accelerate significantly.
  • When you match the indication of the road to the length of the calibration section release the CAL button.
  • The calibration is done.

Attention: Calibration from pulses takes a value from 0.00001 to 9.99999. It cannot be zero.

Pre-calibration by calculation

Knowing how the sensor is installed in your vehicle, you can pre-calculate the calibration. I will present this with an example.

  • Car: Mercedes Pagoda.
  • Sensor: inductive in the hub which counts two pulses per wheel rotation.
  • Preliminary calculations:
    • Measure the circumference of the circle with a yardstick or count it from the radius or diameter.
    • your sample result is : 1930cm
    • perform the action: 1930cm / 2(pulses/turn) = 965cm = 0.965m
    • The value of your calibration is 0.96500. Set such a value with the CALIBRATION, FAST buttons and the +10m and -10m switch, using them as in the Calibration by known distance method.
  • done. You just calibrated the tripmeter.

GPS calibration

If your tripmeter has a built-in GPS module, you can calibrate it. GPS calibration may be needed when you take measurements without sensors and the road in the roadbook deviates significantly from the reference measurements.

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