Today, vehicle on-board electronics monitor multiple sensors hundreds of times per second. Today's cars use some of the latest technology and hardware. In some vehicles, you can even find fiber-optic technology and multiple on-board computers. With technological advancements in on-board electronics, engine vitals are constantly being monitored by the vehicle's ECU. Unfortunately the majority of information never gets relayed to the driver. The factory gauge cluster will generally only inform the driver if there is no oil pressure or if the vehicle is overheating. In the June '08 issue of DSPORT, the Speed Shop section featured a high-performance gauge buyer's guide. While high-performance gauges are a great way to relay some of this vital information, not everyone likes the appearance of multiple gauges mounted in the driver's compartment. For those seeking a stealthy appearance, multi-function displays offer an alternative.

Thin Like A Supermodel

ARK DESIGN has released its Multi Function Dash (MFD) unit for enthusiasts that want valuable and accurate engine vitals but don't like the cluttered look of multiple gauges. The MFD display unit is extremely compact, making it very easy to conceal. The face of the MFD unit is smaller than the average size business card (85mm x 50mm). The ARK unit is also very thin, measuring only 10mm thick. Although small in size, the MFD still features a highly-visible 2.4-inch wide Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) display. The TFT color display can be tailored specifically to the driver's preference. The unit can either be displayed with the navigation buttons on the right or left side of the screen.

Have It Your Way

Customization is the key to self-expression. Realizing the need for self-expression, ARK has designed the MFD unit to display engine vitals in six different modes (two in Analog and four in Digital). Within each of the six modes the user can choose from 10 different parameters (RPM, Boost, Water Temp, Temp #1, Temp #2, Speed, Throttle Position, O2, Injector Duty and Pressure). This allows the user to select from hundreds of different display combinations. All parameters can also be displayed in a peak-hold mode. This allows the review of the highest value that each sensor reached. This can be especially useful during racing where the driver needs to keep his eyes on the road. The user-selectable preset-warning feature can be crucial to preventing catastrophic engine failure. If a sensor exceeds the user-defined warning setting, the display on the meter will flash red repeatedly until the sensor comes back within range. The MFD unit incorporates an output signal to trigger a shift light, intercooler spray bar, VTEC solenoid, etc. The user is able to preset the output signal by RPM, Vehicle Speed and Pressure. When all three set values are reached, the output signal is triggered.

More Options

Currently the MFD unit is capable of displaying up to three optional sensors (two temperature sensors and one pressure). In the future ARK may be offering a wide-band O2 option. With the addition of the optional oxygen sensor the MFD unit can be also used as an air-fuel monitor. The MFD also incorporates a USB connector for future program revisions. Updated software can be downloaded from the ARK DESIGN homepage and then uploaded into the MFD unit through the USB connector.

More Bang For The Buck

Good accurate information is a valuable commodity. The ARK DESIGN MFD unit uses the latest technology to gather valuable engine data and displays it for the driver. The MFD combines all the capabilities of individual electronic gauges into one compact unit. Having the right information at the right time can be the difference between an engine making big power puking its guts out.