Telemetry can feel overwhelming because you can measure everything. The secret is to measure the few things that actually explain lap time.

This guide gives you a beginner-friendly telemetry workflow that works in any sim, whether you use built-in tools or external software. The goal is not to become an engineer — it’s to become consistent and repeatably fast.

The 5 telemetry channels that matter most

1. Speed trace (where you are slow)
2. Brake pressure (how you build and release)
3. Throttle (how early you commit)
4. Steering angle (how much you scrub the tyres)
5. Lap delta (where time is gained/lost)

Step 1: identify one corner, not the whole lap

Pick the corner where your delta changes the most. Focus on that corner until you fix it, then move on.

Step 2: compare “shapes”, not numbers

Beginners often compare peak brake values or top speed. Instead, compare the shape of the traces:

• Brake trace: smooth build, controlled release (trail braking).
• Throttle trace: clean commitment vs “on/off” stabs.
• Steering trace: one clean input vs constant corrections.

Step 3: link telemetry to a driving action

Telemetry only helps if it tells you what to do on track. Examples:

• If you are slower at corner exit: try earlier throttle but with less steering angle.
• If you overslow on entry: brake later only after you can release smoothly.
• If steering trace is noisy: you’re likely overdriving. Read: Stop overdriving: a beginner practice plan for faster lap times.

Hardware note: telemetry is useless if your inputs aren’t repeatable

Before you analyse traces, make sure your rig helps you be consistent:

• Seat position: stable hip position and pedal reach. dual locking slider set helps if multiple drivers share the rig.
• Brake stability: a stable pedal platform is essential for repeatable pressure traces.
• Rig rigidity: SIMGASM Club simulator or above prevents “mystery movement” that ruins consistency.

Recommended SIMGASM gear for this guide

• Entry level: SIMGASM Hobby simulator for a clean first rig foundation.
• Most universal: SIMGASM Club simulator with a stiffer 80x40 profile for almost any wheelbase/pedal set.
• Best for frequent tweaking and cable routing: SIMGASM Sport simulator with built-in pass-through routing for tidy builds.
• Flagship: SIMGASM Pro simulator for maximum rigidity and adjustability with high torque and heavy braking.
• Comfort option: SIMGASM Core Recline seat if you don’t want a fixed bucket.
• Bucket options: SIMGASM Atlas GT seat for GT-style driving, or SIMGASM Atlas Formula seat for a more laid-back formula/hypercar position.
• Adjustability: dual locking slider set for quick driver changes.
• Triples: Apex freestanding triple monitor stand for a stable screen reference, or Core integrated triple monitor stand if you prefer an integrated look.
• VESA alignment: VESA mounting bracket to make mounting cleaner across VESA sizes.

If you are unsure what fits your hardware, SIMGASM support can help you match mounts, bolt patterns and upgrade paths before you buy.

A simple 30-minute telemetry practice session

1. Warm up 5 laps.
2. Save your best clean lap.
3. Compare it to a lap where you felt “off”.
4. Pick one change (brake release, throttle timing, steering smoothness).
5. Do 10 laps focusing only on that.

Continue reading

• A weekly sim racing practice plan: get faster in iRacing and ACC without grinding
• iRacing rain driving guide: vision, braking and consistency in wet conditions
• Trail braking explained: technique, pedal setup and drills
• Racecraft fundamentals: overtaking, defending and driving in traffic
• How to learn a new track fast: reference points, braking markers and notes
• Sim racing USB stability guide: hubs, power and disconnect fixes