4 Types of Race Timing Systems
Introduction
When thinking about purchasing or building an RFID Race Timing system, one of the first things to consider is the software. Primarily, will you:
( a) write your own software
( b) purchase an out of the box software solution
The type of hardware and tags used with your system will depend greatly on the software option you choose. There are pros and cons to each method and, the more you know about each, the more of an informed decision you can make on either purchasing or building a RFID Race Timing System.
Below is a general comparison of the two basic types of RFID Race Timing Systems, Do-it-Yourself (DIY) and Out-of-the-Box Software. Out-of-the Box Software is further subdivided into three types: One-Time Fixed Cost, Pay-As-You-Go, and Contract Systems.
DIY or Out-of-The-Box?
Upfront Costs – The upfront costs in an RFID Race Timing System are generally defined by the costs of purchasing the initial system. Ongoing costs, like licensing fees and disposable RFID tag costs, are not included in the calculation. Some systems have high upfront costs, but low variable costs.
Variable Costs – Variable costs are defined as ongoing costs like licensing fees, disposable RFID tag costs, and replacement equipment. Some systems have low upfront costs, but high variable costs.
Upfront RFID Knowledge Needed – Upfront RFID Knowledge Needed is defined by the amount of RFID background and knowledge the buyer should have before purchasing the system. In DIY systems, for example, the buyer must either already have working knowledge of RFID or be willing to conquer a steep learning curve in order to set up and create the software and system. On the other hand, Contract Systems do not usually require a large amount of RFID knowledge before purchasing because they usually include training courses, videos, and other training aids.
Flexibility –The four outlined systems are ranked by overall flexibility which includes both software flexibility and hardware flexibility. The general level of flexibility of a Race Timing System is determined by the race timer’s ability to adjust his/her system in response to race changes, environmental changes, or preference changes. Systems with the highest level of flexibility are able to be altered over time into a custom system that fits you and your races. DIY systems are generally the most flexible because the race timer can build a custom software and custom hardware system that exactly fits their needs.
Ongoing Support – All systems generally have some variation of hardware support because most RFID readers include manufacturer support. Only Out-of-the-Box systems have software support because the software is a purchased product; however, Out-of-the-Box systems, depending on the type, having varying levels of ongoing support.
DIY
A Do-It-Yourself RFID Race Timing System is defined by the fact that the software is developed by the purchaser (or is contracted out to a software engineer). Creating custom race timing software can be rewarding because you have the ability to customize it to perform exactly how you see fit. DIY Race Timing Systems also allow the buyer the freedom to mix and match different pieces of hardware to create the “perfect system” for their needs.
The main issues that occur with a DIY system usually stem from the extensive knowledge of RFID and software the buyer should have in order to build and maintain the system. Because this is a system that is pieced together, there must be someone at each race with knowledge about each product and the software in case something goes wrong. DIY systems usually cost less than Out-of-the-Box-systems, but the ability to code and create software, or hiring a software engineer is needed in order to complete the system which adds to the cost.
An important strength in using a DIY system is the ability to change the system at will based on additional needs. If there is a change in read zone width or height brought on by environmental changes, DIY systems have the ability to add or subtract pieces of hardware in order to provide the exact amount of coverage for the new course. Such flexibility both with amount and type of hardware makes this type of system very popular.
Furthermore, although there can be significant fixed costs associated with designing your own software, this option can provide users with substantial functionality and flexibility to do things like incorporating cameras or building custom API integrations to other software systems. Most notably, in the long run, a DIY system can have very low variable (per runner) costs because you can purchase tags on the open market and avoid software licensing fees. Thus, in high volumes, a DIY Race Timing System can be economical.
To learn more about DIY race timing systems, check out our eBook A Guide to Building Your Own Timing System.
Out-of-the-Box System
Companies who make Out-of-the-Box Race Timing Systems are essentially software companies. They may provide a large range of services that help enable them to sell their systems, but a system’s unique qualities are usually derived from its software. Most companies that sell race timing systems have not developed their own RFID hardware (with a few exceptions). Instead, they repurpose general RFID readers, antennas, cables, and tags into branded, specialty race timing equipment.
One caveat is that the customized cases in which many companies house their RFID readers have been designed by them. These cases are customized to contain specific elements like batteries, wireless routers, or even cell receivers to enable networking. There are three main variations of Out-of-the-Box Race Timing Systems that are differentiated their pay structure – One-Time Fixed Cost Systems, Pay-As-You-Go Systems, and Contract Systems.
One-Time Fixed Cost System
One-Time Fixed Cost systems are frequently hardware agnostic, meaning that the buyer purchases software rights that can work with a variety of RFID hardware options. Specifically, the software communicates with the RFID reader using LLRP, or Low Level Reader Protocol, which enables them to work with most enterprise-level RFID readers.
Companies that sell these systems cater to a slightly more tech savvy customer who is capable of sourcing RFID hardware and tags and is willing to take ownership of the race timing process. Once these systems are purchased, there are no ongoing software costs or licensing fees. The only variable cost is likely to be the cost per tag (if disposable tags are used).
Pay-As-You-Go System
Pay-As-You-Go Systems may or may not be hardware agnostic. Some companies sell their software in a complete system that includes hardware, while others are content to only sell software and allow customers to choose their RFID hardware. These systems do not have an associated annual services contract or support fee, but they do charge a software licensing fee each time that the system is used.
One advantage that these systems have over a “One-Time Fixed Cost” system is that the software company has an incentive to support their products and continue to improve them. This is because a significant portion of their revenue comes from the customer’s continued satisfaction.
Contract System
This type of system is a full services contract between the race timer and the race timing company. This means that the system is associated with significant training and ongoing support while also frequently locking down the race timer to using tags and hardware purchased directly from the race timing company. Because you must use the company’s tags and hardware, both fixed and variable costs for this option may be high, but they are great options for “high-stakes” races where professional runners or significant cash prizes may be distributed.
Conclusion
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