The system is complete and includes everything (hardware and software) for tracks with 2 to 4 lanes. It is completely adjustable in both the hardware and software.
The hardware includes a working start gate and a finish line with four finish line sensors. The sensors respond to visible light and are easy to install under each track lane. The race clock is in the computer software and is automatically started when you open the start gate. A Pinewood Derby race usually takes less than three seconds.An installed start gate is
shown in the pictures. This particular track has
three lanes. The levers protruding from
the track drop down when the gate opens and race starts.
The start gate is held
closed with a wooden dowel. Pull the
dowel out and the gate opens. There is
a switch that tells the computer that the gate has opened and this action will
start the race timer clock.
Wooden pieces are included
to construct a bridge at the finish line.
The sensors mount below the track in the picture above.
The finish line has an
overhead bridge and two end supports. All the pieces are made from
pinewood.
TIMER
RESOLUTION
Most Pinewood Derby timers
are accurate to 1 millisecond (3 decimal places). Our timer is far more accurate and gives time measurements with 6
decimal places.
The picture shows
the software program. The large digits
are only an indicator to show the clock running. The actual time measurements
will have 6 to 7 decimal places.
You could argue the
accuracy of the 6 to 7 decimal digits.
After all the time measurements are actually millions of a second. But the times are measured relative to each
other.
The software can be
configured so on a 4-lane track each racer would race his car in every lane. It can also be configured to have one heat
where each racer would race once on the track.
In large groups this could save time.
You can also decide if his four times would be averaged together or just
his fastest time would be used for his best time.
The software is written
for Microsoft Windows computers running Windows XP, 7, 8 and 10. Our timer system connects to the computer
with a USB connection.
NOTE - The timer will not work with Windows 11.
SYSTEM
PACKAGE
|
Electronics Control
Board Module |
|
4 Finish Line Sensors |
|
USB Adapter |
|
Working Start Gate with
Wooden Pieces for 4 Lanes |
|
Wooden Pieces for Finish
Line |
|
All Cables and Wiring |
|
All Screws and Necessary
Metal Hardware |
|
Installation and
Operation Manual |
|
Software Installation
Program on CD |
SOUNDS
Our main program window
shows two sound buttons that you can click on and use during your race
event. The sounds are configurable and
you can use any sound files you may have or use our default ones.
PROJECTION
SCREEN
If you are using a laptop,
a projection screen (or large TV monitor) can be connected and the ranking and
winners of each race can be displayed there.
The projection screen will show different information than the laptop
screen.
COSTS
This system includes all
the hardware and software necessary for you to run a Pinewood Derby race. The system will work on
tracks with 2 to 4 lanes. The software
runs on Windows XP, 7, 8 and 10. A USB
port is needed on your computer. An
installation and operation manual is included.
This system costs $199
and includes everything just mentioned.
The shipping costs are $20.
Please allow two weeks
for delivery. We ship using USPS
Priority Mail.
Your questions are always welcome.