Equipment required to run a BMX race with transponders
- Martin Ward
Computers
Any Windows computer is suitable if you are running the Sqorz software.
Recommended spec is as follows
Intel i5 processor or equivalent
8GB RAM
To ensure the computer is reliable regularly connect the computer to the internet to update Windows.
The following software is used: Sqorz
Sqorz can be downloaded from here: www.app.sqorz.com/downloads
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 ihas been found to work well - Brother HL-L5200DW
It prints 40ppm and is extremely reliable.
Toner cartridges are available for this printer that print 8,000 pages, this is by far the most economical way to do this.
UPS
An UPS (Uninteruptable 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
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.
MyLaps Decoder  |
Transponders
The ProChip Flex type are sold on a subscription basis for 1, 3 or 5 years  |
Start Pulse Interface Box
An interface box is required between the Start Controller and the Decoder.
The start pulse interface box provides three functions.
Interfaces between the 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.
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 directly 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
Eventsoft software: Sqorz
Sqorz is event management software used for managing race events from end to end.
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.
Test loop (highly recommended)
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.