Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer

The Garmin Catalyst is a robust driver data and video system aimed at making driver improvement easier than ever before. Garmin has been the leader in GPS based active sport recording for decades, and now crosses over into the automotive performance data field with the Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer.

Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer Details:

• Manufacturer: Garmin
• Manufacturer Part Number: 010-02345-00
• Dimensions: 7.8" x 4.8" x 0.9"
• Display Size: 6.0" x 3.5"
• Touch Screen: Yes
• Weight: 15 oz.
• Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
• Battery Life (Claimed): Up to 2 hours
• Internal Memory: 16GB
• Expandable Memory: Up to 256GB via dual SD card slots
• Includes one 32GB MicroSD card
• Includes Mount: Yes
• GPS: Yes
• GLONASS: Yes
• 10Hz Multi-GNSS Positioning: Yes
• Garmin Connect Compatible: Yes
• Includes Remote Camera: Yes
• Camera Resolution: 1080p
• Camera Field of View: 140º
• Camera Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Software & Track Database Updates Included
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

DISCOVER YOUR FULL TRACK DRIVING POTENTIAL

This device is an industry-first, providing virtual coaching in real time and showing a calculated optimal lap. Real time coaching tells you how to go faster in each corner, with audio instructions, so you can keep your eyes up at all times. This is a stark contrast to existing systems which only provide feedback after a corner or after your session. The Catalyst uses your measured optimal lap to guide you to your personal maximum performance, rather than the performance of a professional racing driver.

Overview

Garmin Catalyst uses accelerometers, GPS, video, and the most sophisticated algorithms to evaluate your driving performance and then suggest ways to improve (just like a human coach). Through the display and audio, Catalyst provides a real-time assessment of performance using both gentle suggestions and positive reinforcement. No, it won't clap when you get it right but it does use real-world phrases and encouragement - such as "brake less", "apex later", or "keep pushing". Catalyst is perpetually evaluating and assessing your performance so it can optimize your lap and get you in line. After your session, review track maps showing opportunities for improvement as well as "heat map" displays of deceleration, acceleration, apexes, and speeds.

Display & Audio

Catalyst uses a 6.95" super wide view LCD IPS screen with vivid TFT colors. The LCD is a touchscreen, able to control functions without the need for a remote control, app, or a laptop. Coaching or playback audio is available via 3.5mm headphone jack or Bluetooth(TM) to your headset or car stereo. The on-screen layout is not programmable.
Camera
This is more than just a camera - the remote pod includes the accelerometers. It records up to 30fps in 1080p HD in a 140 field-of-view. It must be mounted facing forward, high up, and centered on your windshield. An on-screen guide will help you align it. The camera contains the accelerometers and very powerful processing software integrates the video into Catalyst's coaching and data. Playback is available on the Catalyst screen with speed and lap times already in sync.

Coaching

To unlock all of the coaching features and data you will need to select the Advanced setting. There is also a Basic setting that does not provide as much feedback. During your session, the real-time display is referencing current session data only. However, post-session review can include data from multiple sessions. Catalyst is looking for patterns in your driving to map out where you were fast and opportunities to try a different line, brake less, or carry more speed. The only voice currently available is a Siri-like female voice. Lap time differential is displayed as either red (slower), green (faster), or black (no change). From a student/novice perspective you may want to have an advanced driver/instructor set baselines in your car first. Then overlay that data with your own driving. This way Catalyst can see the full potential and make recommendations. It's important not to "chase" a lap time but to know what is capable and make incremental improvements to get there. Catalyst will never make a recommendation that hasn't been previously successful.

Analysis & Review

Catalyst compiles all of its data to form a True Optimal Lap. This is your best possible lap using all of the data you provided in your sessions. True Optimal Lap is determined not just by lap and sector times but by analyzing your best lines through corners and sectors and using the camera feed to identify track limits. Catalyst retains your track data over a 4-day period so you can pack in a full weekend of driving with progressive coaching and analysis. Post-session data is reviewed through the screen or through the Garmin Connect(TM) smartphone app, including video. Export of data or video files to a laptop is not currently supported nor is it needed. Everything you need is self-contained in the tablet. Catalyst works best when used as a standalone tool to review performance and make adjustments while at the track.

Garmin Catalyst Performance Features

• Tracks Your Racing Line
• Real-Time Audio Cues/Coaching
• True Optimal Lap w/ Video
• Built-In Accelerometers
• Displays Best Lap Time
• Displays Adaptive Delta Time
• Displays Lap Count & Total Session Time
• Preloaded Global Track Database
• Session Comparisons
• Driving Performance Scores
• Automatically Identifies Areas of Biggest Time Gain
• Supports Multiple Users & Multiple Cars
• Stores History of On-Track Performance
• Current Weather Plus Forecast via Wi-Fi
• Segment Analysis (racing line, speed, & accel/decel)

In the Box:

• Garmin Catalyst
• 32GB microSD pre-installed in covered compartment (auxiliary card slot on the side of the Catalyst device is externally accessible for memory expansion)
• Remote Cam with polarized lens cover
• Remote Cam 3.5 meter cable
• Heavy-duty vehicle suction cup
• Powered magnetic mount
• Two 1” connecting arms
• 1” arm connector
• Cable clips
• 12V socket power cable
• Documentation

Included Accessories:

• One-inch ball adapter screw down mount
• USB data cable
• 12V bare wire vehicle power cable
• Additional Remote Cam adhesive

Continue reading to see how and why the Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer is unlike anything you've ever experienced. Heck... it's unlike anything you've ever even thought possible!