SEMA 2011: Racepak and MSD Unite, Racepak SmartWire

One of the coolest electronics we have seen at the SEMA show has to be Racepak’s SmartWire. Originally debuted at last year’s SEMA, a few set backs have pushed production of the SmartWire to an October 2011 launch, and we had our first chance to see some of the menu functions. There are still less than 20 shipped SmartWire units in the country, but we have to tell you, this is a stout piece of hardware.

SmartWire's toggle switch panel connects with one wire, or if you have your own switch panel already, Racepak sells a wiring block adapter.

RacePak’s solid state distribution center has the ability to handle up to 125 amps of current draw.  This comes via a total of 30 channels, with 8 at 20 amps and 22 at 10 amps.  If you need more amperage to run a fuel pump, simply tie two of the 20 amp outputs together.  This means that unless you have an exorbitant amount of electronics to power, SmartWire gives you the ability to completely eliminate the need for any relays.

SmartWire’s technology can even control the vehicle’s chassis harness, all the way down to brake and headlights. The toggle switch panel connects with one wire, or if you have your own switch panel already, Racepak sells a wiring block adapter.

The programing capability of the SmartWire is virtually limitless. Set conditions on anything it is wired to and determine perimaters off of the Racepak's sensor inputs as well.

But the SmartWire doesn’t even need a switch panel to work; a fully programmable interface integrated into the SmartWire allows for infinite adjustment over the engine’s perimeters, and the conditions are unlimited.  This means you could set a condition for fans to activate at 170 degrees, another condition to activate only above 800 rpm (engine idle speed), and another to disactivate the fans once the transbrake has been released.  The options are virtually limitless.

Capacity:
125 Amps

Channels:
30 total channel outputs
8 channels at 20 amp maximum
22 channels at 10 amp maximum
12 hardwired switch inputs

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About the author

Mark Gearhart

In 1995 Mark started photographing drag races at his once local track, Bradenton Motorsports Park. He became hooked and shot virtually every series at the track until 2007 until he moved to California and began working as a writer for Power Automedia. He was the founding editor for its first online magazines, and transitioned into the role of editorial director role in 2014. Retiring from the company in 2016, Mark continues to expand his career as a car builder, automotive enthusiast, and freelance journalist to provide featured content and technical expertise.
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