RealDash is a powerful application designed for vehicle enthusiasts, racers, and sim racers seeking a highly customizable digital dashboard experience. This tool transforms your mobile device or PC into a sophisticated display for real-time vehicle data and performance metrics.
What is RealDash?
RealDash is a digital instrumentation and vehicle data monitoring platform. Its primary purpose is to connect to a vehicle’s ECU or a racing simulator to display a vast array of real-time information on a customizable interface. The app is targeted at car owners, performance tuners, and sim racing enthusiasts who want to replace or supplement their physical gauges with a dynamic, digital solution. It functions by interpreting data from various supported sources and presenting it through user-designed or pre-made dashboards.
Why Should You Use RealDash?
Users choose RealDash for its exceptional flexibility and depth. It offers a professional-grade toolset that goes far beyond basic OBD2 readers, making it ideal for both real-world tuning and immersive sim racing. Key advantages include its extensive ECU and simulator support, the ability to create pixel-perfect custom dashboards, and advanced features like performance tracking and lap timing.
Key Features of RealDash
Connects to a wide range of real ECUs, including Megasquirt, Hondata, Link, and Ecumaster, via Bluetooth, WiFi, or USB.
Offers full compatibility with popular racing sims like Assetto Corsa, Project CARS, and BeamNG.drive.
Features a built-in dashboard editor with Pixel Perfect precision for creating completely custom layouts.
Includes a lap timer that automatically detects and times laps on numerous real-world race tracks.
Provides performance measurement tools for metrics like 0-60 mph times, horsepower, torque, and quarter-mile runs.
Additional Features
GPS Functionality: Operates in a standalone mode using the device’s GPS and internal sensors to provide speed, location, and basic performance tracking without an ECU connection.
Open Protocol Support: Allows integration with custom hardware and DIY projects through an open data protocol, appealing to advanced users and builders.
How to Download and Install RealDash
1. Open the app store on your device (Google Play for Android, App Store for iOS, or Microsoft Store for Windows).
2. Use the search bar to look for "RealDash."
3. Select the correct app from the search results and tap "Install" or "Get."
4. Wait for the download and installation process to complete.
5. Open RealDash and follow any initial setup prompts, such as selecting a language.
How to Use RealDash
1. Upon launching, navigate to the "Garage" section from the main menu.
2. Tap on the vehicle door, then the instrument cluster to manage connections.
3. Select "Add" to configure a new data source, choosing from the list of supported ECUs, OBD2 adapters, or simulators.
4. Once connected, you can choose a default dashboard or enter the editor to create your own from scratch.
5. Use the dashboard editor to add gauges, assign data inputs, and customize the look and feel of your display.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Unmatched customization depth for creating unique dashboards.
Incredibly wide support for both real ECUs and racing simulators.
The free version is feature-rich, offering substantial functionality without payment.
Generally stable and reliable once a connection is properly configured.
Cons
The initial learning curve can be steep for users new to ECU data or custom dashboards.
Setting up connections, especially for non-OBD2 ECUs, can require technical patience.
Some advanced features and premium dashboards require additional in-app purchases.
Is RealDash Safe to Use?
Yes, RealDash is safe to use. The app requires various permissions like location (for GPS and maps), Bluetooth, and network access to connect to data sources and download content. These permissions are standard for its functionality and are clearly explained during installation. It does not engage in malicious data collection practices.
Compatible Apps or Tools
RealDash commonly works alongside:
ECU tuning software specific to your vehicle's ECU (e.g., Megasquirt TunerStudio, Hondata software).
Racing simulator platforms like Assetto Corsa and BeamNG.drive.
OBD2 Bluetooth/WiFi adapters (e.g., from well-known brands like OBDLink).
Specialized hardware like the SPLeinonen DashBox for advanced sensor integration.
FAQs
Does RealDash work without an internet connection?
Basically, yes. However, features requiring internet access, like downloading maps or new dashboards, will not be available offline. The app may need to occasionally go online to verify purchases.
I have multiple devices; do I need to purchase the full version for each one?
No. Purchases are tied to your store account (Google, Apple, Microsoft). You can use your account on multiple devices simultaneously.
Why is my device listed as incompatible?
Compatibility depends on hardware capabilities and OS version. You can check detailed reasons on the RealDash store page via a web browser while logged into your account.
Can I request a new racetrack to be added for the lap timer?
Yes. You can send the GPS coordinates and approximate heading of the finish line to the developers for inclusion in a future update.
What OBD adapter do you recommend?
The developers do not endorse a specific brand but advise avoiding the cheapest "mini" adapters. Reliable adapters from well-known brands typically cost between $30 and $100.
Conclusion
RealDash stands out as an immensely powerful and versatile tool for anyone serious about vehicle data or sim racing. Its unparalleled customization and extensive compatibility make it a top-tier choice, despite a potentially daunting setup process for beginners. For enthusiasts looking to build a truly personalized digital dashboard, RealDash is an exceptional platform worth exploring.
