Preamble
From a technology perspective scoring with transponders can be tricky. The scoring software has limited information upon which to operate. In fact the only information received from the track is a transponder number along with a time and a gate drop along with a time. It is important therefore that information provided to the scoring software and team is timely and accurate.
Successful scoring
Successful scoring with transponders relies on a number of key items to be in place. Get these right and the event will be a success.
Before the race
The timing system must be checked before every event — see how to check the timing system here
Every rider must have a working transponder
All transponders must be correctly registered to the rider in the event
NOTE: a checking station is a great tool to manage transponders before an event
During the race
Effective race and track management is in place
All timing loops are protected from unintended stray transponder readings
There are no riders/transponders on the track who should not be on the track (this includes riders who finish a race then ride back on the track to check on a fallen comrade for example)
Staging must always ensure the correct riders are on the gate
All DNF and DNS must be provided to the scoring team in a timely fashion
Good communication with the scoring team is essential