The newest in timing systems

[Cannon]

I just got an e-mail with information about the chip-in-bib system from MyLaps (who just acquired Champion Chip). They say it won't be available until late in Q1, 2010. For the "whitepaper" on the system, use the following link: http://newsletter.mylaps.com/Newsfla...Whitepaper.pdf

[Trailrunnerdude]

that's interesting, thanks. I have heard that you can now get disposable chips for the ChampionChip system. This makes it a lot more attractive.

[Finish_Line]

Still depends very much on the per chip cost. I think MyLaps is definitely playing catch-up in the industry. They only get interest from me if they undercut the established chip-makers.

[elfscore]

I got an email from RFIDTiming.com about their new chip timing system (ULTRA) that puts the chip in the bib. I think their mat system is innovative and lightweight, and they have a way to attach the chip to the seatpost of a bicycle to enable timing of bike races. They claim to have designs for overhead antennae on gantries, but I have not reviewed these.

For the MyLaps system, the PDF notes that the backup mat has to be at least 3 METERS away from the primary mat. That pretty much rules it out for me; I expect a backup system to be able to coexist with the primary system.

[ricksey]

This is not a road racing timing question, but: Do any of you know a good timing system that would not require mats? I run a cross country ski race and burying mats in the snow is a pain, ruins my finish line if the weather doesn't cooperate, etc.

Anyone heard of or used Jaguar? RFID and uses antennas instead of mats?

[JimG]

I believe the AMB system uses two small wires that are duct taped to the road for running events, and could be easily buried in the snow for XC ski races.

[Finish_Line]

Jaguar uses no mats.

I did some extensive investigation with them. It turns out that I'm not prepared to proceed to purchase their system at this time, but their web-site staff was REALLY responsive and eager to be as helpful as possible, even after I told them that I was probably not going to be their client in the short term. Several back and forth conversations, all questions answered quickly, very aware of the needs of race management.

[fltimer]

I also got an email from RFID timing systems, and best I can tell what they have come out with is what Chronotrack has been trying to achieve. I am going to get a closer look at the system in January.

[ricksey]

Originally Posted by Finish_Line

Jaguar uses no mats.

I did some extensive investigation with them. It turns out that I'm not prepared to proceed to purchase their system at this time, but their web-site staff was REALLY responsive and eager to be as helpful as possible, even after I told them that I was probably not going to be their client in the short term. Several back and forth conversations, all questions answered quickly, very aware of the needs of race management.

I've talked to them as well. They really seem on top of things. I'm mostly interested because they don't use mats. We do several different types of races, not just running, and their system seems to work with a lot of them. In your discussions, did you come across anything that made you shy away? Cost is an obvious consideration.

[stuey]

Hi Guys,

I got a google alert from this site as it mentioned the RFID Timing Ultra System. Although I am the UK rep I am happy to answer any questions that you might have regarding the product.

I have been reading with some interest some of the previous posts on the subject (esp chronotrack vs jag). Our goal is to provide a great working system with good ROI for commercial timers. Any US enquiries I pass on to my US colleague but fire away with any questions.

If you are curious the press release is http://www.rfidtiming.com/doc/UltraPressRelease.pdf