A pretty bold statement as a heading. In this section you will get a basic guide to timing a event with a TM Reader
Once you have familiarised yourself with the topics above and the reader setup, you will be ready to start timing an event.
As with any wireless communication, WiFi or Radio (900MHz) can be liable to interference from local “noise” factors. Always test the area where you will be operating your reader prior to timing an event. This will save you unnecessary stress on the day. Remember, a direct Ethernet connection is always the most reliable way of communication between your timing computer and your reader. I.e the fastest and most reliable network communications is always through a cable. If for some reason, you lose communication with your reader, do not Panic. You can always download the raw data from your reader. See section 8.3 on how to do this.
The following steps are a general guide to setup your reader ready to time an event:
- Ensure the reader is fully charged prior to setting it up at the event.
- We recommend you delete all old log files from the reader prior to every event.
- Unroll and place your mat(s) according to your site and event requirements using one of the configurations in Timing Mats. Plug the required mat cables into the reader’s RX and TX sockets.
- Connect any optional accessories to the reader e.g. External Buzzer, External Trigger, Radio Antenna
- Power on the reader by holding down the power button for about 3 seconds. The battery voltage indicator and the Status Display will light up. The reader will perform its mat tuning procedure and emit two quick beeps when completed. You can also manually tune the antennas by pushing the Tune button on the reader.
- Ensure that the Data Mode Switch is in the “UP” position.
- Connect your timing computer to the reader via Ethernet or WiFi.
- Configure your timing software to communicate with the reader’s IP address and either the RAW or FILTERED TCP port. (If required, plug the optional 900MHz USB Radio into your computer and configure your timing software to communicate with the detected COM port, and at the reader’s serial baud rate).
- Set the TM Readers time
- Pass a test tag (use the tag type you are timing with) over the mat and look for an increase in the “Tags:” counter at the bottom of the reader’s screen. A audible beep from the reader will be heard.
- Check that your timing software has also recorded the tag read.
- Proceed to time the event, ensuring from time to time that the reader has sufficient battery charge remaining.
- During the event timing, you can view the tag read results directly in your timing software (if you connected to the reader using the Ethernet, WiFi or 900MHz Radio connection).
- If necessary, once you have finished timing the event, you can download the complete tag read results files the reader.
- Turn the reader off by holding down the power button for 3 seconds. All indicators on the reader’s front panel should go off.