After reading Gary O's transmission tale I'm thinkin' I need the Silverleaf system for our new 99. Anyhow, I'm a Mac user and it looks like the Silverleaf software is only written for Windows. If that's the case I'll buy an inexpensive laptop or netbook or something and dedicate it to system monitoring. So, what kind of hardware are you VMSers using? What's the best setup?
For you Mac guys: I've got an old MacBook that I don't use anymore. Anyone running a Windows on a Mac with Parallels or another virtual Windows application?
Thanks.
jor
jor,
I, too, bought the VMSpc because I thought it would be a fun thing to own. I would not drive without it.
We have an older IBM Think Pad. Bought it used from a friend. Every time I've been in a mom and pop computer store, they have lots of older pc notebooks for sale. You can look there.
Call SilverLeaf tomorrow. This is as essential as a seat belt.
George Stoltz
Jon, I just bought a VMSPC because I was tired of guessing exactly what's going on in the engine compartment. I also purchased a little Acer Net Book from Walmart online for $200. It appears to be ideal for this use. It is very small and will set up nicely on the dash.
I can't wait to get it hooked up. There is some question as to what the DDEC will give the VMSPC. It all depends on what version DDEC I have on my 93. As soon as my back heals I'll post the outcome.
We have an in-dash netbox that Steve installed. The touchscreen monitor replaced our double-DIN radio, but he installed radio/CD/DVD capability. A bit of overkill if you just want system monitoring. Now that Silverleaf has a USB JIB your options are greater.
BTW, we bought our VMSpc from RV Upgrade Store RV Motorhome Parts and Camper Supplies : RV Water Pump : RV Accessories Parts : (http://www.rvupgradestore.com/default.asp) . No affiliation with them other than they had the best price at the time (currently $306.25) and it was actually drop-shipped direct from Silverleaf. Silverleaf VMSPC Engine Monitoring on Your Laptop (http://www.rvupgradestore.com/SilverLeaf-VMSPC-p/vmspc.htm)
Michelle
You don't need much to run vmspc. The interface is avail via serial port or USB. Google silverleaf vmspc. They have a forum.
I use Parallels Desktop on a MacBook. I have been pleased with it. I run Windows 95 Pro using Parallels when I need to do Windows stuff and have only the Mac.
I use VMware Fusion on my mac book pro when I need to run my only Windows program MS Streets & Trips. I have been pleased with it. They just came out with a new version to run on LION OS
Ditto re vm fusion
e mail Martin (the owner) at Silverleaf by---lori@simply-smarter.com (this is their e-mail. He will help with your install and possible up grade of program etc to suit your particular engine etc.
John
Anybody know offhand which plug (9 pin or 6 pin) is used in the 99' ISC 8.3 Cummins? Also, does the current model come with USB?
Thanks!
Don
Don,
Ours has the 9-pin, and the current model does come with USB interface.
Thanks to all. I'll post when it's up and running. I still haven't picked up the 99. Maybe next week. We must really like Foretravels in that we now have two of them!
jor
jim@rvsafteysystems.com
Is a good man to check for the VMSpc.
Will walk you through installation and set-up.
Have the same setup as Kent. It works very well and you can use the Net Book as another computer if you wish.
Keith
Thanks Dave,
That is helpful as usual!
Don
this is how I set up my Netbook so I can see it clearly without causing any visibility issues.
VMSPC Netbook Bracket (http://www.beamalarm.com/Documents/vmspc_netbook_bracket.html)
John
Thanks JohnH. That was going to be my next question: photos of the laptops/net books mounted on the dash (except S&M with the dash mount).
jor
Jon, Jim Sheppard is in Colorado. He seems very helpful at getting you set up but he offered me no price discount. I think the benefit of buying from him is the service after the sale.
Kent,
I have been wondering if the VMSpc works well with the Detroit DDEC and the Allison ATEC transmission. Always been wondering how that works out, hope it does all the goodies.
Thanks
Dave M
Kent, Over on WOG (Wanderlodge Owners Group) we have plenty of folks running VMSpc on two stroke DD's of your vintage (I believe DDEC II). They typically display the following:
Engine Water Temp
RPM
Speed
Cruise Set Speed
MaxTemp (last 20 minutes)
Fuel Rate (instant)
Accelerator Percent
Rolling MPG (last minute or so)
Oil Pressure
Battery Volts as seen by the computer
Engine Load as HP percentage
Turbo Boost
Tank minder
Thanks for the input. I am hoping I can also get turbo boost and intake temp. As soon as I can get back to tinkering, I will post what I find out regarding what the VMSPC will do with the DDEC II.
Jor,
Here is a photo my VMSpc laptop on the dash for reference.
Holy criminey, Barry! You've got a lot of great stuff going on up there! that is a fine setup. Thanks.
jor
Barry - This is a bit off topic, but your picture peeked my interest in what you have going on with your back-up camera setup. Could you send a close-up? I'm particularly interested in how you incorporated your levels display and what the ports and switch below the unit are utilized.
Thanx!
Ron
My tank monitors are the same as yours and is on the monitor with the rear view camera, I can toggle them back and forth on the new flip up monitor touch screen on the right.
I am not getting the video from the tank monitors now and I think the output from the Javalina has failed. Looks like I may have to install a Sealand or something like it. If I recall Javalina wants a 1st born to work on it. >:(
As far as the toggle switches, they are working with the Voltage and amperage displays below.
I wanted more accurate information so I ran new wires directly from the batteries and alternator.
I can monitor voltage, amperage from house battery, engine battery and alternator output.
I can remove the house battery from being charged when it needs no additional charging by the alternator and run the coach needs directly from the alternator.
I added a light to monitor when the dash A/C compressor is working so I can tell when it fails.
(Another idea I borrowed from Barry Leavitt)
Thanks Barry. Great setup! You give me something to strive for.
Steve may want to break my question and your reply out under a new topic "Rear camera display/ Tank Monitor".