Instructions for race organizers
As TestLogger Collectors gain popularity, more users are likely to use the system during events, leading to questions from organizers and drivers. This document provides recommendations and guidelines for integrating TestLogger Collector in events.
Beacons
The main concern will likely be about beacon positioning. TestLogger Collector uses trackside beacons to generate lap and sector times. While not mandatory, placing beacons around the track is highly appreciated by users. Here’s our advice:
- Organizers have full authority over beacon placement, but consulting users is recommended.
- A fully charged beacon should work all day without issues, so no need to touch it unless it gets moved.
- If a competitor is using their own beacon and the organizer perceives a risk of claims in case the beacon breaks down, we provide a form releasing the organizer from liability in case of damage.
TestLogger is happy provide Collector Beacon to race organisers free of charge. Please contact info@testlogger.com for requirements and ordering.
Instructions for beacon positioning
- Beacon positions should remain consistent throughout the event.
- Ideally, place beacons inside the track, but for safety reasons, it’s better to place them outside the track.
- Users may prefer placing beacons close to the track limit for maximum signal strength, but we recommend placing them 1-2 meters away from the track limit to minimize collision risks.
- Beacons can be placed on the ground with a tripod or fixed to a fence or pole.
- All beacons should be placed on the same side of the track limit, preferably outside the track limits.
- Define at least one beacon location to get lap times, with a maximum of three positions.
- Place one beacon on the official timing line if possible.
FAQ
Can the system be used as a driving assistance?
No, under no circumstances TestLogger Collector is possible to use for driving assistance. The only way to do driving assistance, would be to manipulate the signal from receiver to ESC or servo. This is impossible to with TestLogger Collector. Yes, we do have a receiver channel passthrough in the unit which means that signal from receiver is connected to Collector and then from Collector to ESC/servo. The incoming signal physically routed to the output and this can be checked very easily with multimeter. Collector just "steals" the receiver signal for logging purposes and there is no way to inject alternative signal from Collector.
In case this information is not sufficient for race organisers, TestLogger Mini can be used with y-split cables as well. In that case the signal is stolen from the y-split and only one receiver cable will be connected to TestLogger Collector.
Can Beacon interfere the official timing system?
Collector uses infrared signal for laptimes and split times. Typically official time keeping in RC car racing is done with Mylaps equipment which uses transponder and induction loop. TestLogger Beacon can't interfere official timing in anyway if it uses any other technology than infrared.
Does the system transmit any data in real time?
No, the system doesn't have any wireless transmitting capabilities. Data is only logged into the device and must be transferred to a computer either via USB or with a memory card.