Products - RC Cars - RC20 Lap Counter

RC20:
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Overview

RC20 Specifications:
Maximum # of Transponders 14
Start / Finish Lane Width 2' - 14'
Time accuracy .01 sec
Transponder weight 5 grams
Transponder Dimensions 1" x 1"
Transponder Power 4 - 10 cells
 
RC20 Timing System Includes:
3 - Transponders ID 1-3
6 - Overhead IR Modules
5 - 14" interconnect cables
1 - Interface board
1 - Serial Cable
1 - 6’ Interconnect cable
1 - 9vdc Adaptor
1 - TrackMate Software
 

The TrakMate RC20 timing system is a low cost timing solution for Radio Controlled Cars. Why pay thousands of dollars when $450 will get you what you need. Time up to 14 cars at a time. Works with any scale. Super easy to use software is included. Works indoors and outdoors. 

Theory of Operation

The RC20 System is a complete timing system for Radio Controlled Cars. The transponders use infrared technology, An overhead bar is placed at the start/finish line approximately 24 inches above the track with sensor modules placed every 14 inches. When a transponder passes underneath it will be detected and its ID will be sent to the PC. All 14 transponders can pass through simultaneously and all of them will be detected and counted.

Installation

The overhead sensor units are interconnected with the 14 inch cables supplied. Use as many sensor units as required for the width of your track. As few as one or eight sensor units can be used. The orientation or which jack is used on the sensor unit does not matter. At either end of all the sensor units the 6 foot cable will be used to connect the sensors to the jack marked I on the interface board (the other 4 connectors are not used). The interface board is connected to the PC via serial cable supplied. The PC should have a serial port available which is a 9pin male connector. Some newer PCs do not have one so one must be installed or a USB to serial converter may be used.

Transponders

Transponders are powered by the R/C receiver battery. The Transponder should be mounted as flat as possible. It may be mounted in the windshield area or by having a clear area in the front hood of the car it would be possible to mount the transponder there.

Testing

The Interface boards yellow LED will be on when a transponder is detected. The Transponders small LEDs will be on when the overhead sensors are detected.