Transponder system

[slack11]

Can anyone give me a link or a company name of a transponder system that is used for racing.  Our track seems to have difficulty keeping track of the lineup, and was wondering what the costs are of a system like this.  If it isn't real expensive, it may be something to look at for next year.  Any "economical" system would be best.

Thanks for any help.

[racintaz99]

The transponders we use are Westhold.....and I have heard of AMB as well. You might have to do a search for the actual systems. They are very nice to use ...... but they still make mistakes as I had an issue this year and the track went back to look at the hand written score sheets and found out that I was correct and credited me with the proper finish and points.

Good Luck,

Scott

[svtmatt]

I asked our promoter about this a few weeks ago because he uses a complete AMB transponder system with 128 transpoders (enough to support all divisions).  He mentioned to me that the cost in 2002 for that type of system was ~50K.   The transponders alone are around ~$300-$400 each from what I've seen online.

A transponder system is quite the investment for the local short track, but its also a very useful and powerful tool in today's age of wireless communications.  Lots of good info can be transmitted to racers and fans real time which is a good opportunity to engage the fans in the stands and in the pits.  This is on top of the basic functions of keeping up with who's in what place and when. 

MT

[VMS Motorsports]

Westhold is less expensive, and you dont have to have a personal account to check your lap times.
If seriously interested, let me know, and I can work up a quote for you

[legends13]

Nate, I would recommend AMB ( mylaps) mainly because many more racers have this transponder than the westhold one. Around here, I know Bethel and Lake Erie both use the AMB system. (as well as most of the DIRT sanctioned tracks) As for cost, I am not sure, but Joe Graf would be a good one to talk to as they installed the system at Bethel a few years ago. The transponders are expensive, but the tracks make a lot off of the rentals if they do it right. Much better deal for racers to buy their own. The mylaps website is also very cool as you can see not only your lap times, but all of the competitors.