MTX-L

Digital Air/Fuel Ratio Gauge

User Manual

Warning!

The Oxygen Sensor used in this device gets very hot in operation.
Do not touch a hot sensor. Do not let a hot sensor touch a combustible surface. Do not use the
sensor with or near flammable liquids or gases. Failure to heed these warnings may result in
severe burns, explosions, fires, or other dangerous events.

When installed in the exhaust, the oxygen sensor MUST be connected and operating with the
MTX-L whenever the car is running. An un-powered oxygen sensor can be quickly damaged
when exposed to hot exhaust gases.

1  MTX-L ...................................................................................................... 2 
2  Installation ................................................................................................ 3 
2.1  Wiring .............................................................................................. 3 
2.1.1  Single Innovate Device Relay Wiring Instructions....................... 4 
2.2  Mounting and Routing ..................................................................... 4 
2.3  Sensor Placement ........................................................................... 4 
2.4  Sensor Calibration ........................................................................... 6 
2.4.1  Calibration Schedule ................................................................... 7 
2.5  Changing the MTX-L’s gauge face and/or bezel ............................. 7 
3  Download the Logworks 3 software package .......................................... 7 
3.1  Installing software ............................................................................ 7 
3.2  Connecting to LM Programmer ....................................................... 8 
3.2.1  Analog Outputs ............................................................................ 8 
3.2.2  Advanced output programming ................................................. 10 
3.2.3  Updating the Firmware .............................................................. 10 
3.2.4  Changing Sensor Type.............................................................. 11 
3.2.5  Customizing your fuel type ........................................................ 11 
3.2.6  Customizing your display range ................................................ 12 
3.3  Logging data from your MTX-L with LogWorks ............................. 12 
3.3.1  Adding and Logging MTS channels .......................................... 13 
Appendix A: Limited Warranty ....................................................................... 14 
Appendix B: MTX-L Error Codes and Troubleshooting Tips ......................... 15 

11-0129B
1 MTX-L

The MTX-L is an integrated gauge and controller for wideband AFR (lambda)
measurements. Although it can be operated stand alone, it has digital I/O for
integration with other MTS compatible products and two configurable analog
outputs for integration with ECU’s and 3rd party data loggers. The following
views will help you get familiar with the unit.

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2 Installation

2.1 Wiring

The MTX-L has 5 stripped wire ends:

1 Connect the RED wire to an isolated switched 12V source in your

vehicle. A switched 12V source goes ON as soon as “key on” power is
active. The circuit to which you will pull power from should be able to
support a 3 amp draw. Make sure this connection is protected with a 5A
fuse.

Circuits that share power with the vehicle’s stereo, ignition system,
ECU, lighting, or fuel pump should not be used. When in doubt, create an
additional circuit using an automotive relay available at any automotive parts
supplier. See the next section for a relay installation diagram.

2 The BLACK wire should be grounded to a solid ground source. The

best possible ground source would be the battery ground (-) post.

If other Innovate Motorsports devices are going to be daisy-chained

along with the MTX-L, it is recommended that all devices be connected to a
single ground point, ideally the battery ground (-) post.

3 Connect the WHITE wire to a headlight power wire (a wire that supplies
current to the headlights). This enables the display to dim for better
nighttime viewing. DO NOT CONNECT THIS WIRE TO THE
HEADLIGHT DIMMING WIRE. Connection to this rheostat type of
switch will cause the gauge to malfunction. If you chose not to utilize the
dimming feature, connect the WHITE wire to ground.

4 Optionally, the YELLOW (Analog out 1) and/or BROWN (Analog out 2)

can be connected to the analog inputs of other devices such as data
loggers or ECUs. If either one or both of these wires are not being used
isolate and tape the wire(s) out of the way. The default analog outputs
are as follows: Analog output one (yellow) is 0V = 7.35 AFR and 5V =
22.39 AFR. Analog output two (brown) is 1.1V = 14 AFR and .1V = 15
AFR.

It is assumed that the MTX-L and the device the analog output is being
feed to are already sharing the same ‘ground’. In a vehicle, this is
generally true, but there can be small offsets in voltage when devices
are grounded to, say, the chassis at different points. You can minimize
these offsets by sharing a good, common ground point.

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2.1.1 Single Innovate Device Relay Wiring Instructions

2.2 Mounting and Routing

The MTX-L gauge fits in any standard 2 1/16” (52mm) gauge pod. Mounting
of the gauge should be done in such a manner that the cables are not being
forcefully pulled and strained from the gauge itself. Route the sensor cable
avoiding contact with the exhaust pipe and other hot sources that could melt
the cable. Also avoid routing the sensor cable near ignition components or
other sources of RF (radio frequency) and EMI (Electromagnetic
interference) noise.

The MTX-L gauge is splash resistant (not water proof) and can be
mounted so that it is exposed to the outdoor elements. The MTX-L should
not be submerged and special consideration should be taken to protect the
gauge from direct water spray (water coming from a pressurized source.)
When replacing the bezel and/or gauge face verify that the o-ring is properly
seated.

2.3 Sensor Placement

Optimum bung placement will vary from application to application, but using
the guideline below will ensure the longest sensor life with the most accurate

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readings. Using a bung is the preferred method for mounting the oxygen
sensor in all applications.

 Weld the bung at least 24 inches downstream of the exhaust port

outlet (after the collector), or 24 inches after the turbocharger if so
equipped. The bung should be welded before the X or H pipe if so
equipped.

 Using a clock as reference, mount the bung between the 9:00

o’clock and 3:00 o’clock position. Welding the bung in the lower
section of the exhaust pipe can result in sensor damage caused by
condensation making contact with the sensor’s internal heating
element.

 A 1” bung (provided in the kit) will best protect the sensor. When
fully threaded, the sensor’s tip will sit flush with the exhaust pipe, this
does not adversely effect the readings.

 The bung should always be welded before the Catalytic Converter.

Welding the bung after the catalytic converter will skew the readings
toward lean. The skew in readings will vary with engine load and the
efficiency of the catalytic converter.

 Leaded fuel and two stroke applications will reduce the sensor’s life.
There are many other factors that dictate the sensor’s lifespan so it
is impossible to predict it’s total longevity.

 Exhaust leaks, camshaft overlap, and open (shorty) exhausts will

cause false lean readings at light engine loads. Typically, once the
engine is under load and the exhaust gas volume increases, you will
see accurate readings.

 When installed in the exhaust, the oxygen sensor must be connected

to a powered, functional MTX-L (no error codes) whenever the
engine is running. An un-powered sensor will be damaged in a short
period of time when exposed to exhaust gas.

 Do not pre-warm the sensor before starting the engine, simply start
the engine as normal. Allowing the sensor to pre-warm before
starting the engine will increase the possibility of damaging the
sensor from shock-cooling.

 The maximum temperature of the sensor at the bung (the sensor

mounting location) should not exceed 500 oC or 900 oF. If these
temperatures are exceeded in your application you should install the
Innovate Motorsports HBX-1 heat sink bung extender. (p/n 3729.)

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 As the O2 sensor measures the oxygen content of the exhaust
gas to provide an accurate O2 reading, even a small pin-hole
leak in a poorly welded sensor bung will effect the accuracy
and performance of your O2 sensor. Remember, any deviation from
the instructions provided for proper sensor installation will lead to
inaccurate O2 readings.

2.4 Sensor Calibration

Once the unit has been wired and a suitable location has been found for both
the gauge and the sensor it is time to do the sensor calibration. Innovate
Motorsports’ ‘Direct Digital’ wideband measurement principal allows you to
calibrate the sensor to compensate for sensor wear. This procedure takes
just a few moments and it will ensure the most accurate readings throughout
the oxygen sensor’s life. This procedure is required anytime a NEW oxygen
sensor is installed.

The calibration procedure requires that the oxygen sensor be in free air, this
means removed from the exhaust system completely.

1. With the sensor disconnected, apply power to the MTX-L.

When power is applied, all three digits will light up and the needle bar will
sweep once through all LEDs. Then the status light will turn red and the
numeric display will read “E2”. This is an error code, indicating that no
sensor is detected. Leave unit powered on for minimum 30 seconds.

2. Power down the MTX-L and attach the oxygen sensor using the
cable provided. When making these connections, make sure they
are fully seated and locked. Again, make sure that the sensor is in
free air (not in the exhaust).

3. Power up the MTX-L.

Again, the display should ‘sweep’, but instead of an error, the display will
display “Htr”. This indicates that the sensor is being heated up to
operating temperature. After 30-60 seconds, the display will switch from
“Htr” to “CAL”, indicating that the sensor is being calibrated. A few
seconds later, your MTX-L will begin displaying AFR. Since the sensor is
in free air, the gauge will default to the upper limit of 22.4.

The calibration procedure has completed and the system is now ready
for use.

Important: You can disconnect and reconnect the sensor and sensor
cable for installation without losing your calibration. However, if you
power up the MTX-L without a sensor connected, your calibration will
be reset (see step #1 above).

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2.4.1 Calibration Schedule

Normally aspirated (daily driver)

- Calibrate before installation of new sensor
- Calibrate new sensor again after 3 month of use
- Thereafter calibrate once a year or every 20,000 miles, whichever comes
first

Turbo Application, daily driver (tuned rich)

- Calibrate before installation of new sensor
- Calibrate new sensor again after 3 month of use
- Thereafter calibrate twice a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes
first

Race Application
- Calibrate before first installation of new sensor
- Calibrate once per race weekend

2.5 Changing the MTX-L’s gauge face and/or bezel

1. Lay the MTX-L face down and remove the three #2 phillips screws
from the outside rim of the back plate.
2. Carefully lift out the bezel from the gauge cup.
3. Configure the gauge as desired by changing the gauge face and or
bezel.

*Be sure to remove protective film from the gauge face. This can be
done easily with a piece of scotch tape.

4. Make sure every piece is positioned correctly using the locating tab
and reassemble the gauge.
5. Reinstall the 3 #2 phillips screws.

3 Download the Logworks 3 software package

1. Open your web browser and go to:

http://www.innovatemotorsports.com/support.php
2. The LogWorks 3 software download will be the very first thing on the
page, click the link to download the software.

3.1 Installing software

1. Double click on the Logworks 3 installer previously downloaded.
2. The installer will start, follow the prompts to install the software.

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3. Once the software has been installed the LogWorks software, LM
Programmer and MTX-L manual can then be located by navigating
through Start->Programs->LogWorks3.

3.2 Connecting to LM Programmer

LM Programmer is used to update firmware, change fuel types, and program
the two analog outputs.

1. Connect the OUT port of the MTX-L to the provided serial

programming cable. Connect the other end of the serial
programming cable to your computer. If your computer does not
have a serial port, you can purchase a USB to Serial adapter from
Innovate Motorsports (P/N 3733) or use any USB to serial adaptor
that includes drivers. Make sure that nothing is connected to the IN
port of the MTX-L
2. Power up the MTX-L.
3. Launch LM Programmer. The LM Programmer application can be
launched from Start->Programs->LogWorks3->LM Programmer from
the Windows task bar.

3.2.1 Analog Outputs

1. Connect the MTX-L to the computer and launch LM Programmer.
2. Select one of the Analog output tabs. The Analog output tab looks
like this:

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This shows the analog output voltages versus Lambda for one of the two
analog outputs. The graph display is automatically scaled to the selected
voltages. For each output you can specify a minimum and maximum lambda
or A/F ratio value and the associated voltages. Below the minimum and
above the maximum values the output voltages stay constant at the
associated programmed voltage.

By selecting the ‘use Air-Fuel-Ratio’ button you can program the curve by
AFR instead of Lambda. This does not change the programming, only the
unit of measure displayed. When programming by AFR the LM Programmer
converts the number to Lambda before programming the MTX-L. So there
might be some small ‘rounding errors’ when you open LM Programmer and
review your settings in the future.

Click the ‘Program’ button to upload the new programming data into the
MTX-L. Once the unit is programmed the ‘Program’ button will grey out.

The analog outputs can be programmed from 0 to 5 volts and from 0.5 to 1.5
Lambda or 7.35 AFR to 22.39 AFR.

Factory Programmed Defaults:

Analog Output 1 is programmed to output between 0 V for an AFR of 7.35
(gasoline) and 5.0V for an AFR of 22.39. Analog Output 2 is 1.1 V for an
AFR of 14 and .1 V for an AFR of 15. Other settings, of course, are easily
programmable between the minimum and maximum range specified earlier.
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 Avoid connecting or disconnecting any of the ports labeled IN or
OUT while the unit is powered ON.

3.2.2 Advanced output programming

The ‘Advanced’ button allows the user to set the analog out update speed
and the voltage output during sensor Warm-up and Error Condition. The
factory defaults of the analog outputs update 1/12 of a second. The default
voltage output is set at 0 volts for both the Warm-up and Error Condition.

When setting the MTX-L to the slower response speed settings the
measured mixture data will be averaged over the response time setting
before being sent via the analog output.

3.2.3 Updating the Firmware

Do not update the firmware if the versions are the same. A

firmware update should only be necessary if there has been a new
release that specifically fixes a problem that you are experiencing with
the controller.

1. Connect the MTX-L to the computer and launch LM Programmer.

2. Once connected, LM Programmer will display the current version of
the firmware that is installed in the MTX-L. Do not update the
firmware if the versions are the same. A firmware update should
only be necessary if there has been a new release.
3. On the very first tab of LM Programmer you will see a button labeled
“Update Firmware,” click this button.

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 4. Select the firmware file with the dld extension. If there have been
revisions to the firmware, you will find them available for download
from the Support section of the Innovate Motorsports web site.
5. The software will now prompt you to confirm that you wish to
overwrite the firmware currently on your MTX-L.
6. Click OK, DO NOT power off or disconnect the MTX-L from the
computer until the firmware progress screen completely disappears.
Once finished, you may disconnect the unit from the computer and
exit out of the software.

3.2.4 Changing Sensor Type

Note: The MTX-L must be running firmware version 1.04
or later with LM Programmer 4.0 or later to access the
sensor type menu.

The MTX-L is multi sensor compatible with the Bosch LSU 4.2 and 4.9
sensors. In order to go from one sensor type to another the MTX-L must be
connected to the LM Programmer software and the appropriate sensor type
must be selected. The “Sensor Type to use” setting can be found in the ‘Info’
tab when LM Programmer connects to the MTX-L. Once the sensor type is
changed a sensor calibration must be performed with the sensor outside of
the exhaust (see Sensor Calibration chapter.)

Sensor Cable P/N 3ft 8ft 18ft Sensor P/N   

LSU 4.2 3843 3810 3828 LSU 4.2 3737
LSU 4.9 3890 3887 3889 LSU 4.9 3888

Note: All sensor cables for the LSU 4.9 are easily identified by a ‘4.9’
marking molded on the sensor connector side.

Use the appropriate sensor cable for the sensor type as each
sensor has a different style connector. Spliced cable can not only affect
the wideband’s performance but in worst cases it can damage the
sensor and/or controller.

Selecting the wrong sensor type to the sensor being used will
not only give you erroneous readings and/or errors. It can also
permanently damage the sensor.

3.2.5 Customizing your fuel type

The MTX-L gauge comes pre-programmed to display AFR in the gasoline

scale. By connecting the gauge to LM Programmer, fuel type settings for
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different fuels can be setup. This setting can be found on the lower right
hand corner of the Info tab in LM Programmer.

3.2.6 Customizing your display range

The MTX-L gauge can be setup to display different ranges from both the
Needle Bar and the Numeric Display. There is also an option to display
lambda or AFR. Lastly, the gauge can be setup to display percentage of
Oxygen once the readings go beyond 7 lambda.

3.3 Logging data from your MTX-L with LogWorks

1. Connect the OUT port of the MTX-L to the provided serial

programming cable. Connect the other end of the serial
programming cable to your computer. If your computer does not
have a serial port, you can purchase a USB to Serial adapter from
Innovate Motorsports (P/N 3733) or use any USB to serial adaptor
that includes drivers. Make sure that nothing is connected to the IN
port of the MTX-L. Power up the MTX-L
2. Launch LogWorks. The LogWorks application can be launched from
Start->Programs->LogWorks3->Logworks3 from the Windows task
bar.
3. Once LogWorks launches go to File->Connect. You will be prompted
to connect to the serial COM port. Select the comport the device is
connected to and then click Connect.

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 4. To start recording go to File->New Realtime Log or, in the Toolbar,
click on the Tool.

3.3.1 Adding and Logging MTS channels

The Innovate Motorsports’ MTS (Modular Tuning System) allows you to
daisy chain multiple devices together via the serial IN and OUT connectors to
form one single synchronous log. MTS log chains can consist of a single unit
connected directly to a laptop (connect your MTX-L directly to a computer,)
two units, or multiple devices connected together, up to 32 channels. Below
are some MTS logging examples using a PL-1 to record the information on a
SD memory log:

Innovate Motorsports’ MTS devices have two types of serial interface

connectors, the legacy 2.5mm stereo and the 4 pin Molex. The following
patch cables are available to interface your devices together:

4 Pin Molex to 4 Pin Molex - 4ft p/n 3846

2.5mm to 2.5mm Stereo - 4ft p/n 3760
2.5mm to 2.5mm Stereo - 6in p/n 3789
4 Pin Molex to 2.5mm Stereo - 4ft p/n 3812

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Appendix A: Limited Warranty

LIMITED WARRANTY
Innovate stands behind the quality of its products. Innovate makes the following
warranty to purchasers of its products: All new Innovate products carry a one year
warranty from the date of purchase. If proof of purchase cannot be provided, warranty
will be determined by date of manufacture.

When Warranty Void

This warranty shall terminate and Innovate shall have no obligation pursuant to it if (i)
your Innovate product has been modified or repaired in a manner not previously
authorized by Innovate in writing, (ii) the identification markings on your Innovate
product have been removed, defaced, or altered; (iii) your Innovate product was
subjected to accident, abuse, shipping damage, or improper use; (iv) your Innovate
product was not used or configured as specified in the product manual; or (v) your
Innovate product was subjected to operating conditions more severe than those
specified in the product manual.

Exclusions From This Warranty

Oxygen Sensors are excluded from this warranty.

Repairs Under This Warranty

In the unlikely event that your Innovate hardware product should prove defective
during the warranty period, contact Innovate Customer Support at
www.innovatemotorsports.com for a return material authorization (RMA). Products
returned for service must be securely packed to prevent damage and shipped
charges pre paid, along with proof of purchase and the return material authorization
number, to the Innovate repair location as instructed by Customer Service. Innovate
within a reasonable amount of time from its receipt of your product so shipped, will
ship to you, at its option, the repaired product or a new or reconditioned product of
comparable or greater specified functionality. All repaired or replacement products
shall be warranted for the remainder of the original product warranty.

Disclaimer
INNOVATE MAKES NO OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY WITH RESPECT TO
YOUR INNOVATE PRODUCT OTHER THAN THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH
ABOVE. No Innovate dealer, agent, or employee is authorized to make any modification,
extension, or addition to this warranty, unless enforceable or unlawful under applicable law,
INNOVATE DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, NONINFRINGEMENT, AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND THE LIABILITY OF INNOVATE, IF ANY, FOR DAMAGES
RELATING TO ANY ALLEGEDLY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT SHALL UNDER ANY TORT,
CONTRACT, OR OTHER LEGAL THEORY BE LIMITED TO THE ACTUAL PRICE PAID FOR
SUCH PRODUCT AND SHALL IN NO EVENT INCLUDE INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
SPECIAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES OF ANY KIND EVEN IF INNOVATE IS AWARE OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.

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Appendix B: MTX-L Error Codes and Troubleshooting Tips

Error Error Likely Root Cause Fix

Code Message
Error 1 Heater circuit Short in sensor Replace sensor.
shorted
Error 2 Heater circuit 1. Damaged sensor 1. Verify that all sensor
open cable or sensor. connectors are fully seated and
2. Sensor connector not locked into position.
fully seated and locked 2. Replace sensor
into position. 3. Replace sensor cable.
Error 3 Pump cell 1. Short in sensor 1. Replace sensor cable.
circuit shorted cable 2. Replace sensor.
2. Short in sensor 3. Perform sensor recalibration.
3. Sensor calibration
incorrect
Error 4 Pump cell 1. Damaged sensor 1. Verify that all sensor
circuit open cable or sensor. connectors are fully seated and
2. Connectors not fully locked into position.
seated 2. Perform sensor calibration
3. Sensor calibration 3. Replace sensor cable.
incorrect 4. Replace sensor.
Error 5 Reference cell 1. Short in sensor 1. Replace sensor cable.
circuit shorted cable 2. Replace sensor.
2. Short in sensor
Error 6 Reference cell 1. Damaged sensor 1. Verify that all sensor
circuit open cable or sensor. connectors are fully seated and
locked into position.
2. Connectors not fully 2. Replace sensor.
seated 3. Replace sensor cable.
Error 7 System error System error Reboot MTX-L by cycling
power.
Error 8 Sensor 1. Sensor over-heating 1. Perform sensor calibration.
Timing error or over-cooling (error 2. Move sensor bung as far
(typically a condition only occurs downstream as possible.
damaged at wide open throttle ) 3. Add an HBX-1 (p/n 3729) to
sensor). isolate the sensor from the
2. Sensor is damaged pipe.
4. Replace sensor.
Error 9 Supply Supply voltage too low 1. Verify you have 12V at your
Voltage too for sensor regulation power source and the circuit
low can support a 3 amp draw.

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