When considering whether you should kit out your vehicle setup to include a Solo 2 DL as well as a PDM32, you have to consider elements like what extra benefits you can get by adding a PDM32, what you want to achieve and cost-effectiveness. In this blog, we will discuss all of this to help you decide whether adding a PDM32 alongside a Solo 2 DL is beneficial for your setup.
What Each Product Does
Individually, the Solo 2 DL and the PDM32 provide unique information and function differently.
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Aim Solo 2 DL: The Aim Solo 2 DL is a data-logging lap timer with ECU connection.
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Aim PDM32: The Aim PDM32 is a 32-channel power distribution module (sometimes referred to as a power distribution unit PDU) with added logging.
Feature Comparison
|
Feature |
Solo 2 DL |
PDM32 |
|
Data Logging & Lap Timing |
Built-in GPS lap timer, predictive lap times, 4,000+ track database — standalone, no other hardware needed. |
Data logger included, but lap timing requires the optional GPS module — not standalone out of the box. |
|
Power Distribution & Wiring |
None — has no power distribution function. |
32 configurable outputs replace traditional fuse boxes and relays entirely, simplifying the wiring harness and enhancing reliability. |
|
Display & Dash Integration |
Built-in customisable display and LED shift lights. Is a standalone display option. |
Requires an additional TFT dash display to show information. |
|
Data Analysis Software |
Race Studio 3 (RS3) allows you to review lap times, compare laps and analyse racing lines from the session, |
RS3 allows you to configure and monitor every output channel, flags voltage or current drops and makes complex electrical setups easy to adjust without touching the wiring itself. |
|
GPS & Expansions |
Built-in GPS. Can also be connected to SmartyCam cameras, sensors and more to expand on data analysis. |
Connects to an optional GPS, as well as its own inputs, outputs and internal sensors. Can also be connected to SmartyCam cameras, sensors and more to expand on data analysis. |
|
Connection |
Connects via the ECU for engine/sensor data. |
Connects to the ECU plus its own inputs/outputs and internal sensors. |
|
Size |
Compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount anywhere or move between vehicles. |
Weighs more and is significantly larger as it’s replacing an entire fuse box and relay setup, saving space and weight overall. |
|
Cost |
Starting at £640, the Solo 2 DL is one of the most affordable data logging lap timers with ECU connection in a single unit. |
Starting at £1,460, the Aim PDM32 offers up to 32 channels in a single unit. Requires additional add-ons to reach parity with Solo 2 DL features. |
Benefits Of Using The PDM32 With A Solo 2 DL
Overall, the Solo 2 DL is an advanced data logger that connects directly to your vehicle’s ECU to show and log lap times, RPM, throttle position, speed, gear and more. The Aim PDM32 also contains a built-in data logger that logs all your vehicle’s ECU data, as well as all of the current and status from every channel.
Using both devices lets you combine PDM32 channel/power data with the Solo 2 DL’s dedicated timing data into a single comprehensive data pool via CAN bus. This simplifies your wiring harness, giving you professional-grade control over power distribution, telemetry and logging. The built-in GPS in the Solo 2 DL also delivers accurate position and speed data up to 25Hz, without having to purchase or connect additional accessories.
Which Device Should You Choose?
The best device setup ultimately depends on what you want to achieve. As a general guide:
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Choose the Solo 2 DL only if your wiring and fuse box are already sorted, and you just want lap timing, data logging and a basic display without rewiring the vehicle. It’s the most cost-effective way to get detailed information from the session, without overhauling the vehicle’s electrical system.
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Choose the PDM32 only if you want to replace your wiring/fuse box with programmable circuit control. The PDM can still log data and offers optional GPS/lap timing, which can be displayed in the vehicle directly in real time on an additional PDM dash display.
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Kit out your setup with the Solo 2 DL and the PDM32 if you want the benefits of power distribution and wiring simplification and a dedicated, purpose-built lap timing data display, without having to purchase additional displays or GPS modules. Opting for a Solo 2 DL with a built-in GPS is more cost-effective than purchasing all of the individual components required separately for the PDM.
Ultimately, the choice between whether you can just use the Aim Solo 2 DL or whether you should upgrade your setup to include the Aim Solo 2 DL and Power Distribution Module PDM32 depends on your specific needs, budget and technical requirements.



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