PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3

Never Miss Knock Again.

High-fidelity, professional knock detection system designed for data-driven tuners and engine calibrators. Helps you optimize engine performance and durability while safeguarding against destructive tuning.

SKUs: plex-pkm-v30-b | plex-pkm-v3-hd
Basic
HD
Clear

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THE ORIGINAL KNOCK MONITOR

PLEX KNOCK MONITOR®V3

INVEST IN EXCELLENCE.

“A revolutionary knock detection and analysis system that is more than just a tool—it’s an investment in precision, reliability, and superior results. Built for data-driven tuners who know that investing in the right tools pays dividends in performance and lasting excellence.”

With over 12 years of expertise behind it, the PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3 combines cutting-edge hi-fidelity audio filtering, superior knock event detection, and advanced PC-based cross-analysis tools. Our proprietary algorithm ensures faster, more accurate detonation analysis, empowering you to push the limits with confidence.

WHAT'S NEW? EVERYTHING.

POWERFUL PROCESSOR

A new high-speed multi-core processor handles sub-systems such as Comms, CAN bus decoding, math channels and sensor signals independently ensuring peak performance in any setup.

ADVANCED KNOCK
DETECTION SETTINGS

Level-up your detection by setting signal gain per cylinder and/or per sensor and configure signal windowing vs engine position.

DEDICATED MULTI-CORE DSP

Equipped with a new DSP core, the system delivers enhanced audio signal processing and enables advanced knock detection algorithms for greater precision.

ENHANCED PER CYLINDER DETECTION

Achieve significantly more accurate knock monitoring for each cylinder, leveraging the engine position signal input for precise analysis.

HIGH FIDELITY
AUDIO FILTERING

Steep high pass filters that isolate knock from background noise can be selected for different type of engines.

ENGINE POSITION
SIGNAL DECODING

Seamlessly integrates with existing crank and cam trigger signals to provide accurate engine speed and position inputs.

ENTIRELY CONFIGURABLE

Intuitive, yet in-depth configuration lets you customize the UI, CAN Bus, Comms, I/Os, and other functions to match your exact needs. Tailor every aspect to suit any vehicle setup for complete control and flexibility.

100Mbit ETHERNET

Enjoy ultra-fast, real-time data streaming to your PC with electrical isolation. Designed for engine dyno setups, it ensures reliable performance even when the system is located far from the PC.

INDUSTRIAL M8 CONNECTORS/
WIRING SYSTEM

Featuring a new and improved wire loom with robust industrial M8 connectors, this system enhances reliability and simplifies device setup for seamless operation.

POWERFUL PC ANALYSIS SW

Now compatible with our PDA-WIN Data Analysis & Visualization software, enabling high-level real-time or cross-analysis on your PC. Gain invaluable insights to enhance performance and fine-tune your setup.

FULLY CONFIGURABLE
RGB LED LIGHTS

Four customizable RGB LEDs provide clear visual warnings and status indicators for device health and knock alarms, ensuring you stay informed at a glance.

CAN BUS DATA LOGGING

Fully configurable datalogging with conditioned based logging. Log up to 256 data channels and 256 flag channels for post review and analysis on the PC.

INDUSTRIAL QUALITY
MEMBRANE KEYPAD

Featuring a membrane keypad with configurable functions, the new Knock Monitor delivers solid tactile feedback for a reliable user experience.

2.8” ULTRA BRIGHT IPS DISPLAY

High-brightness, high-contrast IPS screen lets one view critical real-time knock data and logged files on the spot.

BUILT TO LAST

Constructed with high-quality components, the new Knock Monitor offers frequent firmware and feature updates, backed by robust support to ensure longevity and reliability.
DOWNLOAD DATASHEET

KEY APPLICATION AREAS

Knock detection is a critical aspect of modern engine management and performance tuning. It involves identifying and analyzing abnormal combustion events, commonly known as “knock” or “detonation,” which occur when the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely or unevenly within the engine cylinder. Left unchecked, knock can lead to significant engine damage, reduced efficiency, and compromised performance.

Engine knock detection plays a critical role in various automotive and industrial applications and is essential for anyone involved in engine tuning, maintenance, and development, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.

PERFORMANCE TUNING
AND ENGINE CALIBRATION

Optimizing ignition timing and air-fuel ratios for enhanced performance and efficiency.
Ensuring durability and reliability in high-performance or modified engines.

AFTERMARKET PRODUCTS
& ENGINE CALIBRATION

- Equipping professional tuners with tools to safely and accurately adjust aftermarket parts.
- Supporting workshops in diagnosing engine issues and improving performance.

OEM DEVELOPMENT
AND TESTING

- Validating engine designs and combustion systems in new vehicle models.
- Ensuring compliance with emissions standards by minimizing detonation.

MOTORSPORTS

- Fine-tuning race engines to achieve maximum performance without risking damage
- Providing real-time knock monitoring during races for on-the-fly adjustments.

R&D

- Studying combustion phenomena
- Testing new fuels or alternative combustion technologies (e.g., hydrogen, biofuels).

INDUSTRIAL ENGINES

- Protecting large stationary engines, such as those in power generation or marine applications, from detonation-induced damage.

EDUCATION

- Teaching automotive engineers and technicians about combustion dynamics and engine management systems.

RUGGED. ROBUST. PRO.

A Future-proof, Cutting Edge Hardware.

We have literally built the new PLEX Knock Monitor from scratch, leveraging the latest advancements in electronics and signal processing to ensure unmatched performance and reliability. Designed with scalability and future updates in mind, the hardware is ready to adapt to evolving technologies and user needs. Whether you’re tuning engines today or preparing for the challenges of tomorrow, this is the tool that keeps you ahead of the curve.

2.8`` IPS TFT Display & Custom UI

View knock events clealy in real time via the new wide-angle IPS display. Configure display pages according to your preferences.

Industrial Quality Membrane Keypad

Highly-ergonomic membrane keypad let you control the device easily.

RGB LED Lights

Four configurable RGB LED lights can be programmed for device status and custom knock warnings/alerts.

Mounting Screw

1/4″ -20 threaded hole for effortless mounting with custom holders
or easily available suction cap holders.

High-quality Cables/Connectors

Industrial quality M8 connectors with new high-quality cables for the Knock Sensors, Trigger Input, IOs, Power and CAN Bus.

Cable Holder Bracket

Sturdy aluminum cable holder bracket prevents stress or damage to the device connectors.

USB Port

Convenient USB type C port for device configuration and short-range real-time data streaming.

Audio Output

3.6mm audio jack. Plug-in your headset and list to knock in raw or filtered format.

100Mbit Ethernet

Ultra-fast, long-distance streaming of device data via Ethernet. Ideal for engine Dynos.

USB Datalogging

32Mb micr0-SD card for seamless datalogging.

A Future-proof,
Cutting Edge Hardware.

We have literally built the new PLEX Knock Monitor from scratch, leveraging the latest advancements in electronics and signal processing to ensure unmatched performance and reliability. Designed with scalability and future updates in mind, the hardware is ready to adapt to evolving technologies and user needs. Whether you’re tuning engines today or preparing for the challenges of tomorrow, this is the tool that keeps you ahead of the curve.

RGB LED Lights

Four configurable RGB LED lights can be programmed for device status and custom knock warnings/alerts.

2.8`` IPS TFT Display & Custom UI

View knock events clealy in real time via the new wide-angle IPS display. Configure display pages according to your preferences.

USB Datalogging

32Mb micro-SD card for seamless and convenient datalogging.

Industrial Quality Membrane Keypad

Highly-ergonomic membrane keypad let you control the device easily.

Mounting Screw

1/4″ -20 threaded hole for effortless mounting with custom holders
or easily available suction cap holders.

High-quality Cables/Connectors

Industrial quality M8 connectors with new high-quality cables for the Knock Sensors, Trigger Input, IOs, Power and CAN Bus.

100Mbit Ethernet

Ultra-fast, long-distance streaming of device data via Ethernet. Ideal for engine Dynos.

Cable Holder Bracket

Sturdy aluminum cable holder bracket prevents stress or damage to the device connectors.

USB Port

Convenient USB type C port for device configuration and short-range real-time data streaming.

Audio Output

3.5mm audio jack. Plug-in your headset and list to knock in raw or filtered format.
EMBODIED KNOCK SCIENCE.

IDENTIFY, PINPOINT & ANALYSE
KNOCK BETTER THAN EVER BEFORE.

Experience next-level knock detection with our proprietary algorithm and high-fidelity audio system. Leveraging advanced frequency analysis, it ensures precise identification and analysis of knock events to optimize engine performance like never before.

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THE PLEX ALGORITHM

LEADING THE PROFESSIONAL KNOCK DETECTION MARKET SINCE 2010.

HI-FIDELITY FILTERING

ISOLATE KNOCK FROM MECHANICAL ENGINE NOISE FOR UNMATCHED CLARITY.

ENTIRELY FLEXIBLE

FULLY CONFIGURE YOUR KNOCK DETECTION TO SUIT ANY ENGINE OR FRAMEWORK.

CRANK SIG DECODING

DEFINE KNOCK DETECTION WINDOWS BY SYNCHRONISING WITH YOUR ENGINE's CRANK OR CAM SIGNALS.

PRECISION KNOCK THRESHOLD

EASY REAL-TIME KNOCK THRESHOLD CALIBRATION VS RPM.

    BEYOND KNOCK.

    A FULL-SCALE CAN BUS DATALOGGER

    The PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3 is more than a knock detection system—it’s a full CAN bus datalogger for pro tuners. Logging directly from your vehicle’s CAN bus, it syncs knock events with key performance data from OEM or aftermarket ECUs. This seamless integration provides deeper insights into combustion health, better diagnostics, and smarter tuning decisions—all in one compact system.

    This integration gives you a deeper, data-driven understanding of your engine, enabling better analysis, diagnostics, and smarter tuning—all in a compact system.

    • FULLY CUSTOM CAN BUS RECEIVE
    • FULLY CUSTOM CAN BUS TRANSMIT
    • UP TO 256 DIFFERENT DATA CHANNELS
    • UP TO 256 DIFFERENT FLAG CHANNELS
    • 2x ANALOG/DIGITAL INPUTS (0-5V)

    EASE OF USE

    ON-DEVICE SETUP, NEW UI
    AND EXAMPLE LAYOUTS

    Designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, the PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3 offers on-device setup with a brand-new, user-friendly interface. Quickly configure settings directly on the device and get started faster by loading example configuration files and page layouts tailored for common tuning scenarios.

    ON DEVICE CONFIGURATION OPTIONS

    • Trigger: source & pulses per rev
    • Knock Mode: frequency, signal gain & threshold mode
    • Audio: filter, channel mix & volume

    NEWLY IMPROVED GRAPHICS

    • Enhanced customisation
    • More graphical objects
    • More pre-designed page layouts
    ANALOG OR CAN BUS

    SEAMLESS DYNO
    INTEGRATION

    Effortlessly integrate the PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3 with your dynamometer setup using either the 0-5V analog outputs or the CAN Bus interface. This dual connectivity ensures compatibility with a wide range of dyno systems, offering precise, synchronized knock detection and data analysis during testing.

    KNOCK RELATED OUTPUT DATA

    • Signal Amplitude per sensor
    • Knock Signal per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Intensity per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Count per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Rate per sensor/cylinder
    LISTEN AND LEARN

    PODCAST: PROPERLY
    UNDERSTAND KNOCK

    “It’s something that can destroy your engine in seconds… but how much do you really know about pre-ignition, knock, and super-knock”? On this episode of the Tuned In podcast, Andre from the HP Academy has invited Ioannis Andrianakis (PLEX TUNING’s founder & CTO) to discuss through these terms, how his highly-regarded series of knock monitors work, and what one does and does not need to worry about when it comes to all things detonation.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights into the causes, solutions, and nuances of engine knock as Andre and Ioannis dive deep into this critical topic—a must-listen for performance tuners!

    PLEX DEVICE MANAGER 2.0

    YOUR KNOCK MONITOR. YOUR WAY.

    Advanced Configuration at Your Fingertips.

    ENGINE & SENSORS SETUP

    The engine and sensor configuration window enables seamless device adaptation to any engine type. From basic single-sensor setups to advanced dual-sensor configurations with individual cylinder assignments and independent sensitivity adjustments, it offers unmatched flexibility.

    CRANK TRIGGER SETUP

    The crank signal decoding configuration window supports a wide range of common OEM crank and camshaft signal patterns, ensuring seamless integration with various engine setups. Advanced signal processing allows precise synchronization for accurate knock detection, even in complex configurations.

    KNOCK THRESHOLD CALIBRATION

    In manual knock threshold mode, the dedicated calibration window provides a streamlined interface for setting threshold points. Live streaming of knock signal data from the engine ensures precise configuration and real-time feedback.

    EASY TO NAVIGATE
    SETUP TREE INTERFACE

    A hierarchical tree-list interface offers an intuitive and organized way to access all device configuration options. This logical flow simplifies complex setups, allowing users to navigate effortlessly through various configuration layers.

    COMMON USER INTERFACE
    FOR ALL PLEX DEVICES

    The PDMv2 provides a unified interface across all PLEX devices, from dashboards to tuning tools. This consistency ensures easy switching between devices and streamlines configuration with a shared layout and features.

    WYSIWYG DASH PAGE
    LAYOUT DESIGN

    Enjoy a ``What You See Is What You Get`` dash page layout, allowing for easy offline design with accurate page previews. Data simulation ensures users can see exactly how their dashboards will look and function, providing full confidence in the final setup.

    TRULY FAST CONFIGURATION

    Speed up the configuration process with easy filtering of selection lists, keyboard shortcuts, and copy-paste functionality. These tools help streamline & accelerate setup, minimizing time spent on repetitive tasks.

    REAL-TIME CAN MSG STREAMING

    Transform your device into a powerful CAN bus diagnostic tool with real-time streaming of incoming raw CAN messages. View all incoming data instantly, and transmit user-defined CAN messages on demand for advanced troubleshooting and system testing.

    BUILT-IN TEMPLATES

    The software comes preloaded with a comprehensive library of CAN protocol templates for seamless connection to most aftermarket ECUs. It also includes sensor templates for common engine sensors, allowing for quick and easy setup without manual configuration.
    DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE

    PLEX PDA-WIN®
    KNOCK ANALYSIS
    & VISUALISATION SW

    See. Listen. Understand.

    WAVEFORM GRAPH

    The Knock Waveform Graph displays unprocessed knock sensor signals, trigger signals, and the calculated cylinder number, providing a comprehensive visual tool for verification and troubleshooting. This ensures accuracy and simplifies diagnostics in complex setups.

    FREQUENCY SPECTOGRAM

    The Knock Frequency Spectrogram offers a graphical representation of signal frequency content, enabling users to detect knock events and identify primary and harmonic knock frequencies. This helps in selecting the frequency that delivers the best signal-to-noise ratio for precise monitoring.

    KNOCK vs RPM

    The Knock vs RPM Graph presents a clear visualization of knock data during a dyno sweep, offering insights into engine performance. Users can easily adjust the knock threshold line manually or automatically, leveraging collected data for optimal calibration.

    CUSTOMIZABLE UI

    User defined layout of tabs and panels with handy docking similar to latest Windows SW suite and also light & dark modes.

    FAST KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

    Main menu and panel functions shortcuts speed up the set-up time and the dynamic real-time analysis considerably.

    MULTIPLE GRAPHS & PANELS

    A wide array of chart types lets you visualise large amounts of data into an easy to understand formats and bring out insights at a glance.

    EASY FILE COMPARISON

    Seamlessly switch between single and comparison view even for completely different file types such as a dyno run with a track lap.

    LIVE DATA UPDATING

    Zoom levels & cursors are synchronized across all analysis panels and graphs, enabling auto rescaling and seamless cross-referencing of data.

    SMART TUNING MAPS

    Configurable cell graphs with information directly transferable to the ECU calibration maps that help you optimise your fuel and ignition maps.
    DOWNLOAD SOFTWARE

    KNOCK MONITOR VERSION COMPARISON

    KNOCK MONITOR V2 KNOCK MONITOR V3 PLEX KNOCK MONITOR V3
    (Discontinued) Basic Version HD Version
    Custom CAN BUS --
    Knock Sensor Inputs 1-2 2 2
    Detection per Cylinder up to 8 Up to 16 Up to 16
    Knock Threshold 2D 2D 2D + Advanced
    USB Datalogging --
    Ethernet -- --
    # Data Channels Only Knock 64 256
    Engine Position Inputs -- RPM only
    Gain per Cylinder -- --
    Gain per Sensor -- --
    Knock Windowing -- --
    Real-time FFT -- --
    Configuration SW Own (limited) PLEX Device Manager V2 PLEX Device Manager V2
    Analysis SW -- PLEX PDA-WIN V2 PLEX PDA-WIN V2
    Connectors JWPF M8/DTM/JWPF M8/DTM/JWPF

    DETAILED SPEC

    Physical
    Dimensions (mm) w 132 x h 76 x d 126
    Weight 250g
    Connector(s) M8 Power/CAN
    M8 Knock Signals
    M8 Trigger/In-Out/5V-sgnd
    Material CNC machined aluminum
    Sealing/Ingress Protection IP5x
    Electrical Data / Operating Conditions
    Supply Voltage Range 9-30V DC
    Current Consumption max. 2A at 12V
    Temperature Range -20 to +60 degC
    Screen
    Type RGB TFT IPS Wide-Temp
    Size (px) 240 x 320
    Brightness 900cd
    Refresh Rate 50Hz
    Communications
    CAN Bus 1x
    USB-C 2 (for configuration/streaming & logging)
    Ethernet 100Mbit (HD version only)
    Inputs/Outputs
    Knock/Vibration Sensor 2x
    Analog Inputs 0-5V 2x (shared)
    Digital Inputs 0-5V 2x (shared)
    Engine Position/Trigger VR/hall Inputs 2x (HD version only)
    Analog Outputs 0-5V 2x (shared)
    LEDs 4x RGB (configurable)
    Internal Sensors
    Real Time Clock with battery backup
    Device/Sensor Voltage Monitor +12V supply/+15V sensor supply
    Device Temperature Sensor Yes
    Ambient Light Sensor —
    Data Logging
    Memory USB flash drive or PC Logging
    Max. Log Rate
    • 44κHz knock/vibration
    • 100Hz other data
    Data Channels
    Max. Data Channels 64 (Basic), 256 (HD)
    Max. Flag Channels 64 (Basic), 256 (HD)
    User Interface
    # of Pages 24
    Custom Page Design yes
    Custom Themes yes
    Pre-loaded Templates/Pages yes
    Internal Calculations
    Knock Metrics
    • Signal Amplitude per sensor
    • Knock Signal per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Intensity per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Count per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Rate per sensor/cylinder
    Knock Frequency Analysis Real-time/cylinder (HD version only)
    Math Channels 4 (Basic) , 8 (HD)

    DEVICE COMPATIBILITY

    DYNAMOMETERS

    The PLEX KNOCK MONITOR® V3 seamlessly integrates with dynamometers for enhanced testing and analysis.

    • Real-time Knock Data Output: Transmit calculated knock data to a dynamometer in real time using either the two analog outputs or the configurable CAN bus transmit functions.
    • Dynamometer Data Input: Receive torque, power, and other available channels via CAN from compatible dynamometers that support this functionality.

    This two-way communication enables precise correlation between knock events and engine performance metrics, optimizing tuning accuracy.

    Knock Related Output Data

    • Signal Amplitude per sensor
    • Knock Signal per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Intensity per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Count per sensor/cylinder
    • Knock Rate per sensor/cylinder
    ECUs - Aftermarket
    Adaptronic
    AEM
    • Infinity
    • Series 2
    Bosch Motorsport
    • MS3
    • MS40
    Carrot
    DTA
    • S Series
    • T Series
    ECUMASTER
    • EMU Black
    • Classic
    • Pro
    EFI
    • EFR18
    • Euro1
    • Euro4
    • Euro6
    • Euro8
    Electromotive TEC
    Emerald
    • K3
    • K6
    Emtron
    E-Race Black
    GEMS
    Haltech
    Hondata
    • Kpro
    • S300
    KMS
    • MD35
    Life Racing
    LINK
    • G3
    • G4
    • G4X
    MAXX
    MARELLI
    Mectronic
    • MKE1
    • MKE4
    • MKE6
    • MKE7
    Megasquirt
    Microtech
    • v2.0
    MMe
    • ECU481
    MOTEC
    • M400
    • M600
    • M800
    • M1 Series
    Pectel
    • EQ10
    • SQ6
    Specialist
    Components
    SYVECS
    • S6
    • S7
    • S8
    Triject
    ECUs - OEM
    BMW M2/M4
    MItsubishi Evo X
    Toyot GT86
    ECUs - Generic OBDII/UDS
    OBD – CAN ISO15765
    OBD – MODE 22 MANUFACTURER SPECIFIC PIDS
    OBD – UDS
    J1939
    NMEA2000
    PDUs
    PDU Ecumaster
    PDU HP Elektronic
    PDU Life Racing
    PDU Motec
    PDU Syvecs
    PDU Tremondi
    PDU MSEL Master Relay
    Auxiliary Devices
    ABS Bosch Motorsport M4/M5
    DCU Motec MDC/MDC2
    KEYPAD Blink Marine
    KEYPAD Tremondi
    LAMBDA AEM
    LAMBDA Ecumaster
    LAMDA Haltech
    LAMBDA Link
    LAMBDA Motec
    SENSOR AEM Thermocouple Amplifier
    SENSOR KMS Thermocouple Amplifier
    SENSOR KMS Flex Fuel
    SENSOR KMS Speed Sensor
    SENSOR Motec E888
    SENSOR Syvecs Thermocouple Amplifier
    SENSOR TEXENSE IRN4C/IRN8C/THN4X
    SENSOR AIM TPMS
    SENSOR IZZE TPMS
    TCU XAP ESHIFT2

    QUESTIONS? ANSWERS.

    Documentation
    Datasheet download
    Pin-out Diagram pending
    Mounting Diagram pending
    User Manual access
    Software
    PLEX Device Manager 2.0 download
    PLEX Data Analysis 2.0 (PDA-WIN) download
    What's In the Box?
    1. Device
    2. USB-C to USB Cable
    3. 4m dual Knock Cable
    4. 2m Trigger/IOs Cable
    5. 2m Power/CAN Cable
    6. Bosch Knock Sensors
    & Sensor Connectors
    7. Connectors & Pins
    8. USB Stick Kit

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