Jumper cables available for FIS sync rule compliance

It is clear that the section on synchronization has been changed and the language of opening the start gate "at high speed as in the race" has been removed. The change in the maximum difference at the sync plus one has also been changed but this may be a typo and a member of the FIS timing working group has stated that .005 is still acceptable. This communication came via email after the Albany update. For USSA events, .005 is also still acceptable.

It is also clear that using a single source (ie. a contact switch) is an acceptable method for producing the sync and the plus one. This language has been in the Timing Booklet for several years.

A cursory examination of timing reports submitted from USSA events last season shows that traditional methods of using a start gate for the sync can achieve .001 resolution however not as often as using a single source.

Either method is acceptable and those who choose to use a start gate will be better served by opening it at speed for both samples as has been done in the past. Should you choose to utilize a contact switch for the TDTR procedures, you can still check the start gate for function before or after the sync, just like you do the photocells. Jumper at the start or in the timing cabin also can provide acceptable results and like unplugging finish cells, must be addressed before the start of racing.

The limit, whether it is .005 or .001, can be tracked with tapes that are showing precision to .0001, just consider the limit as .0050. Changing the precision on the clock is not needed.

The method that is used for syncing clocks has no effect on their ability to derive an accurate net time so please use the method that provides the best comfort level for your team.

This is yet another good reason to use 'Blinky Box' optical isolators. Simply flip the switch to link the two channels and hit the Blinky's 'test' button and you get a perfectly synchronized pulse into both timers. No need to get hold of the starter to do a sync, you can do the whole thing by yourself and at the time of your choice. The blinky also has additional outputs so you can plug in a sync harness for Hanharts.

Just remember to turn off the link after you're finished with sync, A and B systems should be separate for the race.