What is Xbus

XBUS

Connect More Data With Less Wiring with PDS XBus Modular Data Acquisition System for the X1 and X2 Data Loggers

WHAT IS XBUS?

CAN Bus Technology

XBus is Performance Data Systems' proprietary implementation of CAN bus technology for race vehicle data acquisition. CAN bus, or Controller Area Network, is an industry-standard serial communication protocol widely used in vehicles. It allows multiple electronic devices to communicate and share data over a simple two-wire network while providing high reliability and noise immunity.

Built for PDS Data Acquisition

PDS builds on CAN bus technology with XBus to create a dedicated network for connecting sensor modules to compatible X1 and X2 data loggers. Each XBus module has a unique CAN ID, allowing the data logger to identify the module and the information it is transmitting. XBus modules can be positioned throughout the vehicle and connected together on the network, giving racers flexibility when designing their data acquisition system.

HOW DOES XBUS WORK?

Connect More Data With Less Wiring

XBus uses a dedicated CAN-based network to connect compatible sensor modules to the PDS data logger. The X1 or X2 acts as the central data recorder, while XBus modules can be positioned throughout the vehicle wherever additional measurements are needed. The modules communicate their data back to the logger through the XBus network, allowing racers to expand their data acquisition system without running individual sensor connections all the way back to the data logger.

XBus System Architecture

XBus creates a distributed data acquisition network that connects the PDS data logger with sensor modules throughout the vehicle. X1 or X2 Data Logger → XBus Network → XBus Sensor Modules → Performance Data. XBus modules connect through XBus extension cables and can be networked throughout the vehicle. Each module is identified by a unique CAN ID, allowing the system to recognize the module and the data it is transmitting.

WHY USE XBUS?

Scalability
Build your data acquisition system around the needs of your race program. XBus supports up to 72 XBus channels, allowing you to start with the measurements that matter most and expand your system as your data requirements grow.

Simplicity
XBus uses pre-configured modules that can be connected to the network in any order and positioned in virtually any location in the vehicle. Easy-to-connect extension cables make it possible to place modules close to the sensors they monitor while simplifying installation.

Racing-Focused Reliability
XBus is designed for the demanding environment of drag racing and pulling applications. Robust connectors and cables are designed to keep data moving through the extreme acceleration, heat, vibration, and forces encountered in competition.

XBUS FOR DRAG RACING AND PULLING APPLICATIONS.

Race vehicles operate in environments where data acquisition equipment must withstand extreme conditions. XBus provides a modular way to expand sensor capability while maintaining a dedicated network between the vehicle's sensor modules and the PDS data logger.

For drag racing and pulling applications, this means racers can continue adding the measurements they need without redesigning the entire data acquisition system.

XBus changes the way additional data channels are added to a race vehicle. Instead of treating the data logger as a fixed collection of inputs, XBus makes the system expandable. Start with the channels you need today, then add additional XBus modules as your vehicle, tuning program, and data requirements evolve.

FAQ

What is PDS XBus?

PDS XBus is a proprietary CAN bus-based network designed to expand the sensor and data channel capabilities of PDS X1 and X2 data loggers.

How many XBus channels can I use?

An XBus system can support up to 72 XBus channels, allowing racers to expand their data acquisition capabilities as needed.

What sensors can connect to XBus?

PDS XBus modules are designed to monitor measurements including temperature, pressure, voltage, and RPM.

Can XBus modules be installed anywhere in the vehicle?

XBus modules can be positioned throughout the vehicle and connected using XBus extension cables, providing flexibility when designing the system installation.

Do XBus modules need to be connected in a specific order?

XBus modules are pre-configured and can be connected to the network in any order.

Does XBus work with the PDS X1 Data Logger?

Yes. XBus is designed to expand the sensor and data channel capabilities of the PDS X1 Data Logger.

Does XBus work with the PDS X2 Data Logger?

Yes. XBus is designed to expand the sensor and data channel capabilities of the PDS X2 Data Logger.

Why use XBus instead of wiring every sensor directly to the data logger?

XBus provides a modular network architecture that allows sensor modules to be distributed throughout the vehicle and connected through the XBus network. This can simplify installation and make it easier to expand the system as additional measurements are required.