Zone4 Timing Chips
Zone4's all-new custom chip timing system is designed to be highly accurate, comfortable, reliable and low cost. Even though we are still in the testing & development phase, our chips have already earned a reputation for outstanding performance at both National and World Cup level events. The system is not yet ready for sale to the public, but if you're interested in more information please contact us.
Passive RFID
Passive chips are small, flexible and inexpensive, receiving their power from the radio communication signal instead of an internal battery. This simplicity allows passive chips to be priced an order of magnitude below battery powered 'active' chips. Passive chips are intended to be deployed in conjunction with other timing systems, such as Zone4 RapidCam, RapidID, and Summit timers to provide a high degree of both accuracy and reliability.
Completely Wireless
The Zone4 chip timing system is being developed with fast and secure deployment in mind. Battery powered timing points and communication over wireless means no running long stretches of cables from timing points back to the timing tent. Reader antennas are setup beside the race track with quick BNC 'twist' type cables and fast deployment tripods. Powering on the box is all that is required as the boxes automatically connect back to the central timing server where management of the devices can easily be controlled.
Antenna Options
Unlike the mats used by most passive chip timing systems, Zone4 uses sets of freestanding panel antennas on either side of the track or mounted overhead. This means there are no thick mats to be buried under the snow or on road surfaces. Different sports can have different mount positions which can be independently adjusted to provide the best read rates.
Inexpensive Chips
Whether it's running, cycling, skiing, or triathlons, different sports have different requirements for bibs, number plates, and optimum chip and antenna placement. Through Zone4's extensive R&D phase timing races across Canada, we have created the chip system to handle everything from the disposable bib-chip placement common at running races, to the frame plates seen in cycling, to the ankle bands used in ski and triathlon events. This flexible model means the same system can be used for a wide variety of sports and adapted to handle unique timing requirements.