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Post by Ricerocket on Sept 8, 2006 11:02:07 GMT -6
I have a K3 timer from Microwizard, and love it. My concern, though, is getting the same results time after time. I have noticed in using the laser start gate that if the laser gets bumped and need to be re-aimed, times wil be considerably different (up to .2 difference on a 35 ft. Best Track!).
I went to the microswitch that Microwizard send as a 'back up' (I ordered the Grand Prix package, which basically includes all options). With the microswitch, my times seem to be much more consistent. Is there an advantage to the laser start gate? What are you using?
It looks like WIRL is using a microswitch, since I see no laser (I know they are using a different timer as well. It might not offer the laser option).
Just curious what those of you with tracks out there are using.
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Mr. Slick
Head in the Pine
www.PwdRacing.com
Posts: 151
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Post by Mr. Slick on Sept 8, 2006 12:20:04 GMT -6
The laser is used to avoid having to interface with the starting mechanism. I used the "laser" for testing and switched to the micro switches several years ago. At the time the alignment of the "laser" was very hard for me to do since back then I believe that it was an IR beam. :-) The switch is better. I think that there is a lengthy discussion of the differences on DerbyTalk. derbytalk.com/viewtopic.php?t=1515&highlight=laser+microswitchThe biggest factor in race time variances, IMHO, is the method of lowering the start gate. Manually is the most variable. Spring loaded is best as long as it is not too tight or bounces back. Solenoid gates are for the "rich" tracks and I have no experience with them. . . just read lots about them. . . someday I'll get a couple for my tracks. :-)
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Post by Ricerocket on Sept 8, 2006 20:08:42 GMT -6
Thanks Mr. Slick. That is what I thought, but wanted someone else's more experienced opinion. I noticed that every once in a while the microswitch would hang under the start gate when I went to put the start gate in the upright position. A few simple adjustments and it went away, but I am wondering if a microswitch with a roller on the end might work a little better: www.purewaterinc.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=135What do you think? I know I had a car with nitrous, and this was the type of switch that was sent with the system to start the nitrous flow. It seems like it would 'mesh' easier with the start gate because of the roller at the end. I have also seen these switches on ebay. I haven't looked yet, but I imagine Radio Shack would carry these, too.
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Mr. Slick
Head in the Pine
www.PwdRacing.com
Posts: 151
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Post by Mr. Slick on Sept 8, 2006 21:09:13 GMT -6
I like the low mass lever version. . . quicker release when the gate drops. I have gone to mounting the switch so it releases as the gate drops. I have it at about a 30 degree slant so the edge of the drop bar contacts the middle of the lever. My new K2 came with a switch that has a lever that is almost 2 inches long and has enough flexibility that I don't worry about the force of it being closed causing the switch to move from it's mount.
I have some diagrams/photos of them. I'll try to get them posted.
Duct tape is a wonderful way to attach switches to edges of tracks! :-)
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