3 Beginner-Friendly Data Logging Books to Kickstart Your Skills

Drawing from over 25 years of motorsport competition and hands-on engineering, Simon McBeath offers a clear and approachable guide to data logging tailored to both amateurs and enthusiasts. The book walks you through designing and installing data logging systems, interpreting engine and chassis performance data, and applying these insights to improve lap times and driver skill. You’ll find chapters that demystify complex technical concepts with straightforward explanations and illustrations, such as how to analyze telemetry for chassis setup or driver behavior improvements. If you’re passionate about motorsport and eager to harness accessible technology without getting overwhelmed, this book matches your pace and ambition.

During decades immersed in motorsport, Graham Templeman developed a deep understanding of the challenges racers face with data logging systems. This manual bridges the gap between manufacturer instructions and real-world application, guiding you through selecting and operating equipment to extract meaningful insights. You'll learn how to calibrate sensors, interpret charts that reveal car and driver performance, and troubleshoot issues under race conditions. The final Field Guide chapter is especially useful for quick decision-making during events. If you're an amateur competitor seeking practical, hands-on knowledge without unnecessary jargon, this book aligns well with your needs.

This tailored book on foundational data logging principles offers a progressive introduction designed specifically for newcomers. It explores core concepts at a comfortable pace, carefully matching your background and learning goals to help you build confidence without overwhelm. The content focuses on essential techniques and practical understanding, ensuring foundational knowledge is clear and accessible. By addressing your specific interests and skill level, this personalized guide reveals how data logging works, demystifies common challenges, and supports steady advancement. Whether your focus is motorsport telemetry or drone tracking, the book's approach centers on your individual journey through the fundamental aspects of data logging.

Shamus Finn's extensive experience in drone operations led him to craft a log book tailored for both commercial and amateur pilots aiming to organize their flight data effectively. This book walks you through detailed recording of each flight with two pages per session, combining notes and checklists to streamline your process. It highlights the practical benefits of a paper log over digital alternatives, such as reliability and ample space for observations, which can sharpen your situational awareness over time. If you're a drone enthusiast or professional seeking a straightforward, tangible method to track your flying activity, this book offers a focused tool to build your confidence and maintain safety awareness in the evolving drone landscape.