Race Timer

User Manual

2. Connection Instructions – Solenoid Starting Module

These instructions apply to the solenoid option where solenoids are at the start of the racing track and infrared beams at the end.

Please refer to the installation diagram named “Race Timer – Solenoid Starting.” The number on the diagram refer to the numbered points below.

Follow these steps for before operating the units and the PC software when the optional starting module and associated solenoids are deployed.

Mount both solenoids so that they launch the race as required (M4 screws are provided). For example when launching CO2 racing cars the following considerations are vital:
1. The solenoid plunger must be directly against or fixed to the CO2 firing pin. If not then the gap will significantly reduce the force applied to the pin.
2. The impact of the pin and the CO2 cylinder should be around 3mm (1/8”) from the end of the 12mm (1/2”) travel of the solenoid. This will maximise the impact and puncture force.
Warnings:
1. Solenoid damage will occur if the mounting screws penetrate the solenoid body beyond the internal plastic shield.
2. When triggered, a lot of power is discharged into a solenoid which closes with considerable force. Ensure appropriate safety precautions are employed in mounting and using the solenoids.
Plug the solenoid for each lane into the starting module matching the red and black plugs to the correct lanes.
Connect 3.5mm leads from the starting module control inputs to the associated outputs on the main controller module for both lanes 1 and 2. Note that any leads should be physically secured (e.g. taped down) in order to keep them clear of any moving components/vehicles and secure them against trip hazards.
Connect 3.5mm leads from the main controller module inputs to the two trigger switches for both lanes 1 and 2. Note that the lead can go either way around.
Plug in the power pack to the mains and the power input of the starting module. Make sure that the power LED illuminates.
Mount two (2) IR receiver modules on either side at the finish line, clear of the end of the track so that the IR beam will not be blocked. Make sure that the IR beam module entrance holes point across the track, so there is no interruption of the line-of-sight path of the beam. Double sided tape or glue can be used to fix the IR receiver and transmitter modules in their correct locations. Note that the receiver and transmitter modules can be placed either way up so that IR light beam is aligned and the connections are conveniently placed to ensure the signal lead is kept clear of the moving car.
Mount a single finish IR dual transmitter between tracks and point directly to each of the IR receivers from the IR beam holes on each side.
Connect 3.5mm leads from the IR receiver modules to the correct receiver inputs on the main controller unit for both lanes 1 and 2.
Connect a 3.5mm lead from the IR dual transmitter module to the main controller unit on either transmitter output.
Connect the network lead between the remote and main controller units, linking them together. Note that the lead can go either way around.
Connect the USB B plug (square) to the main controller and the USB A end (rectangular) to the computer and switch on the computer.
Optionally connect a projector to the computer for viewing the racing on a large screen. This adds to the racing experience.
Switch on the computer and check all the connections:
1. Check that both the main controller and remote modules have lit power lights.
2. The lights where the IR transmitter units are connected should be lit on both the main controller and the remote modules.
3. The lights where the IR receiver units are connected on the remote controller and remote modules will be lit when IR beams are aligned: this is essential for correct operation.
4. Check that the inputs of the main controller module light when the associated trigger button is pressed.

Notes:

The IR (Infrared) light is invisible to the naked eye and also harmless.
Optionally two single transmitter modules can replace the single dual transmitter module when a central dual transmitter is physically possible to mount. In this case mount each single transmitter module as required and point it at its counterpart receiver. The leads for each transmitter connect to either transmitter output of the controller module.
For testing purposes a trigger switch can be temporarily connected directly into an input of the solenoid starting module. When powered up the switch will close the associated solenoid attached to the starting module. This allows the solenoid mounting and firing mechanism to be tested.

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