Crash Data Retrieval (CDR) System by Vetronix

What is the CDR Tool?
The so-called black-box technology is a very hot topic in the field currently. First off, the proper terminology for this science is CDR for Crash Data Retrieval system. The decoder hardware was created by Vetronix Corporation. These are the same people that make virtually all the vehicle computer test equipment that is used at the dealers and repair facilities around the world.

The CDR system retrieves data from the computer that runs the air bag system. Within this module is a small chip holding a very small amount of data in "Hex" format. When decoded, it can conceivably provide data as to the last five seconds pre-collision, and the first 300 milliseconds post-collision. It also can record an event that wasn't quite severe enough to cause the air bags to deploy. The type of data it may relate is for example, the speed of the vehicle, the throttle position, the brake pedal position, whether the air bag was deactivated, if the seat belts were buckled and engine RPM. It also can show the rate of speed reduction post-impact.

This type of information can be useful when combined with a complete reconstruction performed through regular means. The user must be properly trained by Vetronix to correctly interpret this data or very serious mistakes are likely to be made. Due to the fact that this data is kind of like the car's "dying declaration" it may be flawed, incomplete or completely unusable. Only somebody properly trained can make that determination. Currently, only 4 to 5 vehicle manufacturers have released the information necessary to decode this data. More are working with Vetronix at this time.

I am proud to announce that the experts at GR&A have completed this training and continue to do so as training becomes available.