While Swimcloud makes running a meet a snap, we rely on meet hosts setting up and operating their timing equipment correctly. If you're new to setting up a swim meet, don't worry—you’re not alone! This guide will help walk you through what you need to know to set up the CTS and get your meet running smoothly.
For a deeper dive you might check out these external resources:
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Colorado Timing Support Manuals
- CTS-6 User's Guide
- CTS-6 Training Videos
- CTS Gen7 Quick Start Guide
- Potomac Valley System Operator Training
Setting up the Colorado Timing System (CTS)
Components:
- CTS Console: Colorado Time Systems Sports Timer (e.g., System 6 or 7).
- Deck Cable: This is the cable that connects the touchpads and backup buttons to the CTS.
- Touchpads: Used for automatic timing when the swimmer touches the pad at the finish.
- Backup Buttons (Plungers): Manual backup timing buttons pressed by timers.
- Starting System: Starter system triggers the start of the race.
Hardware Setup:
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Place the console in a central location near the pool, often at the officials' table.
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Install the Deck Cable.
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The deck cable typically runs along the pool deck and has multiple sets of connectors (usually 6-8) corresponding to each lane.
- The touchpads and backup buttons connect to the deck cable. Specifically:
- The touchpad for each lane is plugged into the “prime” connector for that lane.
- The backup button for each lane is plugged into the “backup” connector for that lane.
- Once all lanes are connected, the deck cable connects to the “near end” port on the back of the CTS console.
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Set Up the Starter:
- Connect the starter system to the “start” connection on the CTS console or deck cable.
- Test the starter to ensure the CTS registers the start signal.
Testing the System:
- Start a Test Race: After everything is connected, use the starter to trigger a test race. Verify the following:
- The CTS console displays a running time when the race starts.
- The touchpads register finish times when pressed.
- The backup buttons register times when pressed.
Common Setup Issues:
- Touchpad Not Registering: Ensure the touchpad is securely connected to the “prime” port on the deck cable. If the pad fails multiple times, check the harness or pad connection.
- Backup Button Not Registering: Check the “backup” port connection on the deck cable. If it persists, test the button using a CTS tester, if available.
Running The CTS
Once your timing system is set up and ready, running the meet is straightforward, but there are a few key actions to keep in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here's a guide to help you manage the race timing and handle any issues that might arise.
Start the Race
- The race begins with the starter system—you don't need to press anything on the Colorado Timing System (CTS) console unless the starter system fails to trigger the race.
- If for some reason the timer doesn’t start, press the Start key on the CTS console to begin manually.
During the Race
- Turn off any lanes that are not being used during the race.
- The touchpads will register times as swimmers hit the wall at the end of each lap. Keep an eye for any missed or extra touches.
- If there’s a missed touch, press the +Touch key on console, enter the lane number and press Enter.
- If there’s an extra touch, press the -Touch key on console, enter the lane number and press Enter.
Finish the Race
- When all swimmers have finished press Store/Print to save the race results in the CTS.
- Press Reset. If you if you forget to press Store/Print, pressing Reset will automatically store the race results before resetting the system for the next heat.
Advance to the Next Heat or Event
- To move to the next heat, press Next Heat on the CTS console.
- To change to the next event, press Next Event. If you need to manually adjust the event or heat number, press Edit Event/Heat, enter the new number using the keypad, and press Enter.
Key Reminders:
- Always confirm the race is finished by pressing Store/Print.
- Make sure to hit Reset before the next race starts.
- Don’t panic! If something goes wrong, most issues can be fixed before the next heat.