Event Organisers
Chip timing is a term used to describe the electronic system used to time events. The system uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) which involves parcipants wearing
a "chip" or tag. An RFID reader uses an antenna to recognise when each tag crosses the start/finish line and records a time.
There are two main types of timing chips - active and passive. Most people are familiar with disposable chips that are attached to race bibs or sometimes a shoe tag,
these are notionally disposable but actually can be used multiple times. We use timing tags that are laminated and attached to felcro straps which can be attached to
shoe laces and returned at the end of the race for re-use. We feel that this is a more sustainable and economical solution. There are also encased tags which are the
same thing simply encased in plastic offering an even more durable option, of course these also come with a greater price tag but are a great option for sports such as
triathlon or mountain bike races where tags are likely to get wet or muddy.
Disposable timing chips are typically "wet inlay dogbone RFID tags" which have many applications in industry as well as sports timing. For running events we typically see the
tags attached to race bibs or a tyvek shoe tag. Once the race is over they are discarded.
All our timing equipment can be powered by battery which can be charged via solar panels. However, if power is available, we may use it.
We use compact side antennae and an RFID reader with laptop so we ideally need either a couple of square metres for a table and chair or space to park our vehicle
(medium sized hatchback)directly beside the start/finish line.
This depends on the package you select. Live results are posted automatically and immediately to our website but, this requires a robust internet connection and a
significant amount of data so there is a cost. If this solution isn't for you, results will be uploaded at the end of the event within an agreed timescale. This doesn't
prevent you from knowing who your race and/or category winners are.
When a person crosses a timing point, our system captures that information and calculates a result. This is done in real time and can be posted to our website, a custom
website, emailed and event displayed on a TV!
We will provide you with a list of winners as the earliest opportunity either on paper or digitally. This will largely be determined by whatever we have previously agreed.
Absolutely! As soon as we confirm a booking it will be uploaded to our events page with the date clearly indicated. If there are no events listed with the date you are
wishing to hold your event on, we are more than likely available. Please make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.
Fill in our "Request a quote" form and we'll be in touch to confirm arrangements!
Participants
Gun time is the time between the start of the race and when you cross the finish line. This is the official time used to determine who won the race and who won any categories
within the race. If you are in a large race (as in with lots of participants), you might find you don't cross the start line immediately. You might be in waves or a seeded start
and cross the start line a couple of minutes after the people at the front. Chip timing allows us to record the time you crossed the start line as well as the time you crossed
the finish line. This means we are able to tell you how long it actually took for you to get round the course, many of us consider this your true time and would be counted by
UK Athletics if you acheived a personal best time.
This will be determined by the race organiser.
If you are unable to amend the details you wish to change via our online entry system please give us a call or pop us an email and we'll resolve any issues as quickly
as possible.
Please email us or you can send us a text. We will investigate the chip reads and cameras and resolve any queries as quickly as possible.
Related Projects
