We've had false start problems in 2 out of the last 6 races we've run using time of day mode, and each race was from a different start location out of 4 that we use. We've run a race from each of those locations without problems as well so I'm a little frustrated in terms of troubleshooting. Our wiring system is completely interconnected, but we use bridges at our main junction to isolate starts which we did yesterday but had to switch to split mode because of so many false starts that we couldn't eliminate. I'd appreciate any suggestions as to where to look?

Did you still get false starts in Split Mode?

What did the printer record? Was it just going nuts printing SZs or did other channels go wild as well?

An S4 timer running in Program 3 with software uses all inputs equally. The inputs can be delayed only by using the DF setting. The normal is 2/10s of a second. In split mode the start delay is set for 1 second so you probably would not have seen as many false pulses.

Did the timer continue to give false pulses when running by itself? Did the false pulses return when the PC was plugged in?

Static buildup in timing lines is always possible and seems to vary by the humidity. Wires laid over granite and similar rock seem to be more liable to interference than others.

Often times new equipment installed for lifts or sound systems can create problems. Sound systems run over the same wire bundle can cause interference due to the fact that they use AC power as opposed to the DC that timing uses.

ALGE makes the OPTODATA to eliminate the physical connection between the timer and PC using an optocoupled connection. Also available is the OC-18 which is an optocoupled input box that physically removes the connection between each sensor and the timer. It also eliminates the ablility to use the headset through the timer/start gate. A seperate system of SV4 amps is needed. Both devices are stocked.

In general you try an OPTODATA first. If it solves the problem great. If not you move to an OC-18 or another similar device like a TAG 553.

The timer received false starts when running alone or connected to tne PC, and they weren't related to true starts at the gate. Our six pair wiring is used solely for race timing.

Do you get the impulses when the wand is disconnected?
Is the gate closed right after?
Sounds like a wire problem to me!

We had this same problem crop up out of the blue several years ago. The only solution we found was to start using the OC18, and have never had any more problems other than the occasional false impulse.

Do you still get the false starts with out the start gate hooked up?
Just set up the timer without any connections on the hill.
Do you have music in the same cable--anouncing?