The Computing Power Behind the BMW WilliamsF1 Team
Compaq

Monday, April 9
Finding a needle in a data shack

compaq in the field
The biggest area of advance in F1 racing has been information technology and computers.

Every time the FW24 hits the track, it's different. Different aerodynamic package, different gear points, different ride height, new bits all over. Not to mention that today is sunny and dry, while yesterday was foggy and wet.

There's unlimited variables that can determine the setup and performance of the car - today, this second, on this circuit. The drivers can explain a lot of the feel behind the wheel, telling the team there's too much understeer on turn one, etc. in an effort to match the car to the conditions.

But to refine the characteristics of the car on the microscopic level that F1 demands, the car is completely wired, constantly transmitting and recording it's vital statistics to Compaq computers. This data is key to understanding what's running smooth, and what needs a swift kick to bring it into line.  Full story


 
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