

Also, it has been credited with reducing cheating as racers must cross all the checkpoints. Net time has been effective in reducing crowding at the chutes by being able to measure individual times in large crowds. Because this method tracks the actual time recorded at the starting line minus the time at the finish line, it is often referred to as net time. An RFID reader interprets and sends the information to a computer with the process repeating itself at each mat. Larger races will have mats at checkpoints throughout the race giving organizers the ability to measure split times.Īs you run across an RFID timing mat, the antenna within the mat emits an electromagnetic wave energizing the RFID chip, which then responds with a unique identification number associated with your race bib number. Your individual clock starts as soon as you pass over the mats located at the starting line, and likewise ends as you cross the mats at the finish line. The type of RFID tag varies on the system being used, but they range from shoelace tags, ankle bracelets, to the more common disposable race bibs with an affixed UHF RFID tag.Ĭhip timing is able to precisely measure your race results by registering your race chip as you run across RFID timing mats located throughout the race course. Race participants wear the RFID tags during the race.

Race chip timing systems use RFID transponder chips to precisely measure racers’ times. Counter-intuitive to what you may think, the least accurate of the two times, gun timing, is typically considered your official race time and is the basis for any awards given out to participants.
TIMING GUN MANUAL
They all serve the same purpose but offer different RPM ranges, ability to operate a multi-spark system and offer features such as timing manual advance, a dwell meter, and the possible option to work on four-cylinder, six-cylinder, or eight-cylinder engines.The two systems of measurement we’ll discuss are race chip timing and gun timing. What brand manufacturers offer automotive timing lights?Īutomotive timing lights come in three styles: inductive, digital, and self-powered. Not every timing light is compatible with MSD systems, so be sure to check that the one you want can meet these requirements before purchasing. To properly measure this sequence, the timing light must be able to show the beginning of the sequence.
TIMING GUN SERIES
Typically, the distributor only provides a single spark for an ignition sequence, but in MSD systems, there are a series of them disbursed at a specific timing. How do timing lights help multiple spark distribution systems (MSD)?

It should be able to read both two-cycle and four-cycle engines. The standard timing lights come with a xenon light tube that is able to read timing when the vehicle engine is at idle.Knowing this allows adjustments to be made via manipulation of the distributor cap to make the spark plugs fire before or after the piston has reached the top dead center, depending on the malfunction or issue that needs to be fixed. By aiming this strobe light in the proper place, usually the crankshaft pulley, you will be able to read the degree markings on it, which are indicative of where the crankshaft is in its rotation and the respective pistons. Inductive timing lights, when connected properly to the cars engine and battery, detect the electricity every time the plug fires, and every time the plug fires, the timing light shoots a beam of light. The light is powered by the vehicle it is being used to test. The light can be a stroboscope that may use a simple neon lamp or a xenon strobe lamp that provides brighter light and better use in daylight or in shop lighting. Timing lights are diagnostic tools used to observe ignition timing in vehicles with distributors and are available as self-contained units or as a part of a more comprehensive engine analytical tool. See Your Cars Diagnostics More Clearly With Automotive Timing Lights
