Information for organisers

To enable contactless punching in orienteering SPORTident offers the compatible extension “AIR+” to the existing classic punching system. The SPORTident AIR+ system configuration uses the same system solution as the classic one. SPORTident Config+ is used to prepare and setup the SPORTident stations for the event. SPORTident AIR+ meets the latest IOF specification for contactless punching in orienteering. The SPORTident stations to be used differ according to the discipline:

Foot-O: BSF7/8

Ski-O: BSF7/8 >>> BS11-BS blue should not be used for ski-o events!

MTBO: BS11-BS blue

System Solution

The SIAC is used for contactless punching in the AIR+ system configuration. SIAC contains a battery and it is important to supervise SIAC's battery performance before the event. A new working mode “SIAC Battery test” can be programmed for BSF7/8 using Config+.

The organiser should position a “SIAC Battery test” station in the event centre so that athletes can check out SIAC's battery performance some time before they start.

SIAC's AIR+ feature is not always active so that power consumption can be reduced and the battery can last longer. AIR+ functionality becomes active by the “CHECK” process after the chip has been cleared. In all AIR+ applications the CHECK process is mandatory and it is the responsibility of the organiser to ensure that the process takes place. The activation of the SIAC is shown by a flashing green LED. Please note: SI-Stations BS11 in AIR+ mode have a working range of up to 5 meters. Activated SIAC's inside this range register additional time stamps.

Usually additional records with code numbers that are not used in the competition are not included in the evaluation. Although there is a large storage in the SIAC, you should not store invalid or bad data. In a relay race you have to pay special attention to the changing area. It is important to avoid that a runner passes the finish area accidentally with an activated SIAC. You should note that mostly two “FINISH” Stations are used: One to record the split times or exchange times and one more to record the finish time of the last runner.

In sprint relays you also have to think about the way a runner has to go from the first card read out to the next changing area in order to avoid switching off the SIAC accidentally. SIAC's AIR+ feature is switched off by a “FINISH” Station. That's why it is important to avoid that runners passing the finish area accidentally while they are racing.

Please comply with the following points:

• Separate the finish area from the start
• In relay races separate the changing area from the finish
• Activate SIAC only immediately before the start
• Switch on the Control Stations at the checkpoint

Punching and Timing Mode

SPORTident Stations for contactless timekeeping can be programmed in Punching or Timing Mode

In orienteering Punching Mode is recommended for all controls. SIAC registers the time and station's code number when it enters the station's radio field. As long as SIAC is within the station's working range it continuously emits acoustic and visual feedback signals. The feedback signals from the SIAC confirm that the athlete has successfully recorded a visit to the control.

In Timing Mode the record is stored when the field is at its strongest. When passing a control SIAC confirms with acoustic and visual feedback signals. In addition to the stations for controls SPORTident offers special equipment for timekeeping at start and finish. Using SI-Station BS11-BL there is a working distance of more than 3 metres. Timekeeping accuracy can further be improved by a gate configuration.

Alternatively a loop antenna can be used for lanes with widths of up to 6 metres, e.g. in ski orienteering. The loop antenna is put directly under the finish line and burrowed in the snow.

BS11-BL Gate Mode

SPORTident Stations BS11-BL can be configured in a “gate” mode. This not only improves the timekeeping accuracy but also secures that SIAC registers records only when “inside” the gate. Using a gate for FINISH significantly reduces accidentally time recording while athletes are racing.

BSF8 Storage

It is also important to store BSF8 Stations in the recommended way to avoid unnecessary power consumption.