Page Comparison

Computers

Any Windows computer is suitable if you are running the Sqorz software.

Recommended spec is as follows

• Intel i5 processor
• 8GB RAM
• 250GB SSD hard disk

To ensure the computer is reliable regularly connect the computer to the internet to update Windows.

The following software is used:

Registration:    Sqorz

Scoring:           Mylaps Timing & Scoring and Sqorz

Training:          Mylaps Timing & Scoring and BEM Train (note BEM Train needs Excel 2010 or earlier to run)

For scoring Sqorz and Mylaps software can either be run on separate computers or on a single computer with a second monitor.  

Printer

Laser printers are preferred over Ink jet printers as they are generally faster, cheaper to run and more reliable.  Colour printing is not required.  Therefore a mono laser printer is recommended.  Options of network and wireless connectivity are handy but not compulsory.  Make sure you have a spare cartridge on hand.

The following printer is highly recommended - Brother HL-L5200DW  (cost is around $250 - $300 depending where you get it from)

It prints 40ppm and is extremely reliable.

You can also get toner cartridges for this printer that print 10,000 pages, this is by far the most economical way to do this.

Try ShopBot to find the best price https://www.shopbot.com.au/pp-brother-hl-l5200dw-price-532746.html

UPS

 An UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) is good to have as a backup as if the power fails to the Finish Decoder while a race is on the track you will not be able to score the race.  Plus the UPS provides protection to the equipment from power spikes.

The following UPS is currently being used by BMXNSW and seems to be very good - APC Back-UPS ES 550 UPS 300W

Mwave do a good price: https://www.mwave.com.au/product/apc-backups-es-550-ups-300w-550va-8-output-aa47980

Networking your System

At the very least you will have the following on your network

• 1 or more laptops
• Decoder
• Printer

You will either need a router or a switch to connect all the equipment. If you use a switch you'll need to assign IP addresses manually to your equipment which will need a basic level of technical knowledge to do.
It is recommended all equipment is connected by LAN cables as opposed to using wireless.

Decoders

Decoders take the transponder signal from the loops and assign a time to them. They then send the transponder number and the time to the MyLaps Timing & Scoring software.

It is possible to run a race with both the start and hill loops going into 1 decoder however, it s preferable for each loop to have its own decoder.

Transponders

Grey Interface Box

An interface box is required between the Start Controller and the Hill Decoder.

The interface box provides three functions.

• Interfaces between the 12v Start Controller to the 5v input of the Mylaps Decoder.
• Allows connection of the GPS as well as the start signal to the same input on the decoder.
• After a start signal is received the box blocks any further spurious start signals from being received by the Decoder for 5 seconds. Without this function spurious extra start signals are regularly received and interfere with the BEM program scoring correctly.

If a ProGate Controller is used then a second interface box is required due to the connector type used on the ProGate.

Marty Baker produces these interface boxes.  If more information please contact him at Martyb@bigpond.com or 0418875760.

GPS Unit

If more than 1 decoder is used then each Decoder requires a GPS unit to be connected to synchronise the times of the decoders.

i.e 2 decoders will required 2 GPS units.

Software

Mylaps software: Timing and Scoring.

• Timing and Scoring is the interface between the decoder and the scoring program Sqorz. 
• Any club wanting to download Timing & Scoring need to apply to Mylaps for a login before downloading from their website.

Eventsoft software: Sqorz

• Sqorz is event management software used for managing race events from end to end.
• Sqorz is available from Eventsoft for free, there is a marginal per rider charge to use the software.

Optional Extras

Wireless Hotspot

A wireless hotspot can be setup to cover the BMX track area.  This hotspot provides a connection back to the decoders.  This connection can then be used for:  Coaches at various locations.  A feed to Commentary to give them passing information.  Plus a connection to the checking station.  Here is an example of an access point for the hotspot.

Access Point example.  Example of where to buy from and expected cost Umart

Test loop

A test loop can be connected to a decoder and used for testing rider transponders.

If using the Sqorz software entry or registration can be made just by running the transponder past the checking station.