“Capture button serial port unavailable; keyboard capture will be used.”
This common error message appears when starting your FinishLynx software. There are two scenarios which would cause this message to occur:
You’re using Auto Capture and do not use the Capture Button. In this case, no further action is required. Simply click Ok and proceed with running your meet. The Capture Button Serial Port doesn’t need to be assigned as no Capture Button is being used.
You are using the Capture Button (either alone or in conjunction with Auto-Capture) and either 1) the computer assigned your adapter a COM port number that FinishLynx is not looking for, 2) you opened FinishLynx prior to plugging in your USB to serial adapter, or 3) the Capture Button has not been assigned a COM port number by the computer.
Connect your USB to serial adapter to your computer prior to opening FinishLynx. In FinishLynx, go to File | Options and locate the Capture Button dropdown
If your Capture Button’s COM port is listed, choose that and click OK.
If no COM port is listed, proceed to Step 2.
Check that the USB-to-serial adapter is recognized by the computer in the Windows Device Manager with a COM port listed
In Device Manager, it will be listed under Ports
If the USB-to-serial device is not recognized by the computer, then you will need to install the appropriate drivers. If you are using an ATEN adapter supplied by Lynx, click here to download the driver from our website (must have internet access).
Once you have confirmed your computer recognizes the USB-to-serial adapter and has assigned it a COM port number, re-open FinishLynx and go back to Step 1 above.
Note: Also check that the camera is set to manual capture in the Camera I | Options | Capture tab | Capture Method
The RadioLynx Wireless Start unit is extremely popular with Lynx timers. While most won’t have issues, the goal of this post is to provide a quick way to troubleshoot the hardware if something does seem wrong. If your software settings are configured correctly, you can troubleshoot why your RadioLynx may be malfunctioning using just an unfolded paper clip. Follow along with the steps below to help pinpoint what exactly is going on with your system.
Step 1
With your FinishLynx system set up and turned on, remove the black and green plugs from the RadioLynx transmitter. Push the signal button in the top left corner to elicit a start.
If no start is received, review your software settings and check internal dip-switches.
If a start is received, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2
Insert an unfolded paperclip into the black and green plugs of the transmitter and squeeze to elicit a start.
If a start is received, the transmitter is working. Proceed to Step 3.
Step 3
Replace the cord by plugging in the black and green banana plugs. Remove the impact sensor. Insert the paperclip into the female XLR end numbered 1 and 3. Squeeze to elicit a start signal.
April 1, 2016 — As towns and school districts pass new legislation banning guns from campuses and public spaces, old fashioned starting pistols and shells are becoming a riskier and more controversial tool for timers. The benefit of starting guns is that the blanks produce an extremely loud gunshot noise—one that can be heard easily by athletes and spectators. But shells are also becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to find. New gun rules and fewer affordable shell options has led race timers to alternatives like the Lynx Electronic Start System. And today, we’re proud to announce an even better gun-free start option: UmbrellaLynx.
UmbrellaLynx Gunless & Noiseless Umbrella Start System
Do you own a track and field starter’s pistol? Are you tired of being hassled by parents, coaches, ADs, and TSA agents for transporting your pistol and ammo? Are you sick of ordering expensive blanks only to have them not work? We hear you. That’s why Lynx is introducing the most convenient, cost-effective, and family-friendly start system of all time.
UmbrellaLynx is a starting system for FinishLynx that is completely wireless, gunless, and noiseless. It combines features from the Electronic Start and RadioLynx Wireless Start systems, with a completely new twist. When you add UmbrellaLynx to your setup, there is literally nothing people can complain about anymore. Sure, the athletes may need some practice getting used to the visual cue of the umbrella opening. But the benefits are clear. Start your meets in style and never be hassled by ADs, parents, neighbors, or law enforcement again.
New Limited Edition Vision Cameras
Do you ever feel like your Vision photo-finish camera is a bit too plain? Is there a wild side of you anxiously waiting to be liberated? We’ve got you covered. FinishLynx is proud to introduce the exclusive Lynx Safari Edition cameras, featuring three ferocious new models: Giraffe, Tiger, and Cheetah. With each edition comes enhanced frame rates plus the ability to add exciting backgrounds to those photo-finish images. Capture regular timestamped results and then overlay any number of filters or enhancements. Options include:
Replace the white finish line background with a Serengeti or Rainforest scene
Replace red evaluation lines with jungle vines
Replace slower athletes with trees or sloths
Imagine the unlimited fundraising possibilities!
April Fools! Please re-share on social media if you’ve enjoyed it :)
Every two years, the largest sports and humanitarian event in the world is held, giving athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to showcase their talents globally. Los Angeles, CA was the home to the most recent games held July 25 – August 2, 2015, hosting the largest event the city has seen since the 1984 Olympic Games.
Actors, Olympic athletes, musicians, and even the Princess of Monaco attended to show support for the games by performing at the Opening Ceremonies and presenting medals to athletes. Below is a glimpse at the size of this event:
25 Olympic-type sports
165 countries
2,000 coaches
6,500 athletes
30,000 volunteers
500,000 anticipated spectators
Moving Towards Unified Acceptance
The Special Olympics strives to change the perceptions of people with intellectual disabilities and create a worldwide discussion to move towards a unified acceptance. One particular segment was developed this past year under the theme #WhatsOneThing in which participants were interviewed and asked what’s one thing they were told they’d never be able to do growing up. Many of the athletes have been repeatedly told they can’t, it’s impossible, it’ll never happen, etc. Thanks to the Special Olympics, these athletes gain self-confidence by competing, plus they’re able to inspire the spectators by achieving their dreams while showing the highest levels of sportsmanship.
Timing kayak events at the Special Olympics World Games in California
FinishLynx At the World Games
Finished Results was chosen to time the 2015 World Games after showcasing their elite-level timing at the Special Olympics Trials in 2014. To many, the thought of timing such a large event may seem daunting. But with strategic planning (plus an arsenal of backup cameras), the timers were able to pull it off with ease.
In total, the team timed the following seven events:
Athletics
Cycling (road and time-trial)
Half Marathon
Kayaking
Open Water Swimming
Roller Skating
Triathlon
Preparing for the Big Event
What exactly goes into timing an event like this? The first step is planning.
“Taking on the project as a whole could be a very intimidating task. By putting a lead timer in charge of each venue, and with the additional help from Royal Results, we were able to divide the work into much smaller and more manageable projects.”
– Chris Drescher, Finished Results
Logistics and Venues
A Peek Inside the Timing Tent
In total, Finished Results had a group of seven Lynx operators plus 10-15 helpers who assisted with meet management, athletes, start assistants, etc. For equipment, they used two photo-finish cameras for each event (one primary plus a backup), IdentiLynx PROs, LED displays, FieldLynx, ResulTV for live results, IPICO multi-sport tags, and shared data with the Special Olympics proprietary scoring software.
The Finished Results team originally needed seven trailers to get all the equipment down to the venue. They were told they could bring just one, but they were able to negotiate up to three. Somehow they maneuvered all their equipment to make it fit into the three trailers.
Once down at the Games, the sheer scale of the event created some logistical issues to overcome which included a lot of: drive to one venue → drop off equipment → drive to the next venue → drop off equipment → go park off site, all the while trying to unload without being in a fire lane. Below is a list of each event and venue stretched across the 7-day period.
7/25/2015
Athletics
USC Campus
7/26/2015
Triathlon
Long Beach
7/26/2015
Roller Skating
LA Convention Center
7/26/2015
Open Water Swimming
Alamitos Beach
7/27/2015
Cycling
Shoreline Drive, Long Beach
7/28/2015
Kayaking
Marine Stadium, Long Beach
8/1/2015
Half Marathon
Long Beach
“Most events we time, there is one meet director that we are in communication with for everything that is needed. But events on a large scale such as the Special Olympics World Games have many layers of management. Add in the fact that we were timing not only Track & Field, but 6 other events at 4 other venues; we now have multiple people we are working with. The important thing to remember is that we are all trying to accomplish the same goal, which is making the event a tremendous success.”
–Chris Drescher, Finished Results
Adjusting for Different Sports and Events
FinishLynx Cameras for Kayaking
For the SOWG, Finished Results had to carefully tailor their timing setups depending on the size, venue, or speed or the events. For example, they quickly discovered that a different lens was needed for timing the kayak races because the cameras were set up much farther away from the finish line.
For cycling, most would assume that RFID transponders would be the primary timing device. But instead, they opted to use FinishLynx cameras in Time Trial mode with IdentiLynx video for the results.
One other wrinkle was the character encoding for results and scoreboards. The events had athletes from all over the world, meaning that a variety of languages and characters would need to be supported for posting results in real time. The team quickly made adjustments behind the scenes to produce a seamless experience for athletes, fans, and officials.
LED Displays Add Wow-Factor
Finished Results owns dozens of LED display boards, many of which were used at the Special Olympics Trials in 2014 and the World Games in 2015. The combination of LEDs, ResulTV software, and FieldLynx allowed them to create a wow-factor with live scoring and results. The sheer number of displays used reinforces how essential scoreboards have become in the sports timing world. The team used a jumbotron, seven finish line displays, and up to 24 2-panel LEDs for results, ads, and event signage.
Just a few of the Finished Results Displays
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Insights
One obstacle they faced was that a large event like the SOWG has every detail planned out in advance. When there are so many athletes, spectators, and stakeholders, running a tight ship is essential to the success and security of events. But that also means the timing crew wasn’t able to enjoy the same autonomy provided by smaller races. Tent locations, event parking, visitor passes, lunch breaks, and event schedules left little room for error or adjustments. But after all was said and done, theFinished Results team was able to take away some great insights for timers looking to scale up their events:
Surround yourself with good people and befriend others at the event
Learn as much as you possibly can about the technology you’re using
Remember that timing is a service industry. You’re the expert and need to remain calm to help them through various situations.
Be adaptable to various situations and try to anticipate the problem before it happens.
Treat each meet with the same level of quality and service no matter the size.
“Our experience as a whole was amazing and humbling. Amazing in how many volunteers gave up countless hours of their time in support of the games. Humbling in seeing how much these athletes overcome on a daily basis. The courage and strength transcends through all sports.”
– Chris Drescher, Finished Results
Track and field finish line at the 2015 Special Olympics World Games
We’d like to thank Chris Drescher, Brian Sparacino, and Alex Lohman of Finished Results in Menifee, CA for taking the time to answer our questions and provide an inside look at timing this major event. Read more about the 2015 Special Olympics World Games here.
Want to learn more about how a FinishLynx system can help your event? Visit our fully automatic timing packages for more information.
Since the release of Windows 10 in July 2015, our tech support team has received many questions about its compatibility with FinishLynx. We’re pleased to announce that the FinishLynx timing software and its components are fully compatible with the Windows 10 operating system.
If you want to upgrade your primary capture computer from Windows 7/8 to Windows 10, there should be no problems using the FinishLynx software to time races. However, there are some settings that should be double-checked after upgrading your operating system to Windows 10+. This includes changing the Windows power management settings, checking the firewall exceptions, and updating drivers for 3rd party hardware like USB-to-Serial Adapters.
Prevent Ethernet Issues by Disabling Windows 10 Power Saving Mode
Some users have reported issues with the ability of the Vision Power-over-Ethernet camera to load inside FinishLynx. Often, users will see the camera load within the software, only to have it red-line within moments. A simple fix to the power management settings of the Ethernet port can solve this issue. Please see the post below on how to disable power saving mode in Windows 10:
If you are upgrading from Windows 7 or an earlier version of Windows, we recommend that you update your computer’s USB drivers to ensure compatibility with the ATEN (UC232A), Prolific, Sabrent, and other USB-to-serial adapters. All FinishLynx systems ship with the ATEN UC232A USB-to-serial adapter. As of July 2018, the latest version of the ATEN Windows driver is 1.0.084. You may also visit the ATEN website to see if any newer drivers have been released since this posting. Read more on Windows 8 driver compatibility
KEYLOK USB Dongle Driver for Windows 10
Some customers running Windows 10 may need to update the drivers for their KEYLOK USB Dongle. An older version of the KEYLOK drivers is included with both the ResulTV and NetExchange software. If you are experiencing issues with either of those programs while running Windows 10, we recommend you install the latest version of the KEYLOK dongle software. As of this posting (02/02/2016), the latest drivers were released on January 16, 2016. You can check for newer versions directly on the KEYLOK website.
We work with partners and customers to ensure that FinishLynx is rigorously tested with new operating systems. But as with any software, updates and security patches may introduce new bugs. If you notice any issues while operating FinishLynx on a Windows 10 device, please contact tech support with details about your problem, settings, and device. Customer bug reports are invaluable in discovering and patching issues that could potentially affect thousands of Lynx users.
Haverhill, MA – A quick note to the FinishLynx community that our Headquarters will be closed for an extended winter break during the 2015-16 holiday season. While there may not be any snow here yet, we still believe the holidays are a time to spend relaxing with friends, family, and loved ones. And we hope you’re able to put down the capture button and do the same!
Our Haverhill office will close at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, December 23rd as we attend our annual employee holiday party. This year the Lynx team will visit Dave & Busters to enjoy some food, drinks, and arcade games. The office will reopen at 9:00 AM (Eastern Standard Time) on Monday, January 4th.
Limited technical support may be available by calling the office and following the prompts to leave a message: (978) 556-9780. You can also submit a tech support web form and may receive a response via email.
2015-16 Holiday Schedule
Close: Wednesday, December 23rd
Re-Open: Monday, January 4th
From everyone here at Lynx, we wish you and your family a very happy holiday and wonderful new year.
Generate Revenue By Selling FinishLynx & IdentiLynx Captures
Parents and coaches know that in youth sports, trophies and photos are a key aspect of remembering their athletes’ personal achievements. Luckily, anyone who owns a FinishLynx system already has the ability to preserve these memories while also bringing in some revenue for the sports program.
“When you go and time a meet, you’re 95% of the way to being able to sell pictures.” – Glendon Rand, Brewer Timing
Athletic programs across the country are always in need of additional funding. And with a combination of local sponsorships and/or selling photo-finish images to families, the additional revenue can really help a track program’s bottom line. Whether you’re a small high school or a local service provider, you could be generating hundreds or even thousands of dollars in revenue by selling your photo-finish and IdentiLynx images at meets.
Selling Photo-Finish Results Images
Race timers can easily print and sell race images on paper, laminated foam boards, or even heat-transfer them onto t-shirts. The process to print the images is simple, giving anyone the ability to create beautiful souvenirs. This simple printing process can generate some additional revenue at meets while also giving athletes and parents a unique keepsake from the event. Some race timers will give a script to the meet announcer to help them promote the images for sale. Posting sample photos in bathrooms and at the concession stand has proven to be another effective tactic.
“Really we train high school kids in 10 minutes how to print a picture — it’s crop, print.” – Glendon Rand, Brewer Timing
Local Sponsorships
Local sponsorships are a huge part of youth athletics. Business logos appear on team uniforms in many sports. There are many advantages offered by a donation to a non-profit sports organization and an increasing number of companies are willing to do so for these reasons. Some companies are even willing to underwrite the cost of producing prints in return for having their logo on every image, which can easily be done within the FinishLynx software.
Real World Examples
Below are two samples of how race timers can design and print images for sale. The first image is a traditional results image exported right from FinishLynx and laminated on a foam board. The second example shows how some custom design elements can be added to enhance the overall look and make excellent souvenirs for athletes and families at championship races. Look for ways to customize the images and create unique and desirable items for a specific event, sport, or audience.
Want learn more about how timers from Brewer High School started generating thousands of dollars for their track program? Watch the 4-part video below. The presentation was recorded back in 2009 but the tips and insights are still relevant to timers today. The fact is, athletes and their families will always love seeing beautiful images of them crossing the finish line. How you provide them is up to you.
Cologne, Germany – We’re just a week away from the 2015 FSB Trade Show in Cologne, Germany. The event is also known as the IAKS Congress, sponsored by the (International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities). If you’re not familiar, FSB is a global trade exhibition for architects, engineers, and manufacturers in the sports and recreation industries. FSB is held every two years at the Cologne Exhibition Center and this year’s show features 650+ brands from 45 countries, including Lynx System Developers. This year we’ll be showing off our updated sports timing systems and the EtherLynx Vision camera, which has been integrated into our packages over the past year.
We’ve been working hard the past few months the prep for this major event. Last week we shipped 3 photo-finish cameras, 700+ marketing brochures, dozens of display materials, and plenty of branded “schwag” to share with our visitors. Special thanks to our German partner ProTime for their help coordinating the shipping.
There’s no doubt FSB is a great chance the generate new partnerships and business opportunities. But the reason we love the show is because we get to spend time talking with our existing partners and customers. This year we’re expecting dozens of our international resellers to be in attendance, as well as old colleagues from across the sports timing community. Is your company planning to attend this year’s FSB show? If so, stop by the FinishLynx booth:
Booth: Hall: 07 – Aisle: F – Booth: 50
Dates: Tuesday October 27th – Friday October 30th
We’ve heard good things about the German food and drink, so maybe we can meet up after hours too. Look forward to seeing you in Cologne. Send an email to intlsales and we would love to meet up.
Please join us in welcoming three new members to the Lynx community. Paul and Mackenzie have joined Tech Support and Lauren has joined the marketing team.
Paul Holyoke
Paul Holyoke, Tech Support
Paul Holyoke began using FinishLynx to time meets and sell photos as a freshman at Brewer High School in Maine and has continued to do so ever since. Now he has taken his FinishLynx expertise one step further and is fielding support calls for us here at Lynx. He’s thrilled that he has a chance to work at the place that helped make his track experience so much better. He loves watching meets and believes the finish line is the best seat in the house. He’s ecstatic that his knowledge gained throughout the years timing meets is now being used to answer questions and help customers learn how to use their systems.
Paul says, “I’ve learned from the best, I’m still learning more all the time, and I hope to give that knowledge back to you. Feel free to call support with any questions you have. I would love to hear from you.”
Fun fact: In high school, Paul had a serious case of the pre-race yawns. If you are a distance runner, you know what he’s talking about.
Mackenzie Gray
Mackenzie Gray, Tech Support
Mackenzie Gray comes to Finishlynx with a background in track and field as a USATF official, race director and coach at Minnechaug Regional HS. He has worked for years timing road races, cross country meets, and track meets at every level from youth to international competition.
In May 2015, Mackenzie graduated from Springfield College with a master’s degree in sport management. He also completed his undergrad at Springfield in exercise sciences.
Fun Fact: When not at the office, Mackenzie can be found running the streets of Newburyport or trying new recipes in the kitchen. He claims to be undefeated at Kan-Jam and an excellent parallel parker, but neither have been verified at Lynx headquarters.
Lauren Greenwood
Lauren Greenwood, Marketing Coordinator
Lauren Greenwood joined Lynx this past July after spending 10 months living abroad in Dublin, Ireland. She graduated from Endicott College in May 2014 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Marketing. Lauren has been welcomed into the marketing department at Lynx and already enjoys contributing to writing blog posts and constantly learning more about the timing systems each day.
Fun Fact: Lauren’s favorite hobby is traveling, both locally and internationally, but is currently in search of an additional, more affordable, hobby.
Remove the impact sensor. Insert the paperclip into the female XLR end numbered 1 and 3. Squeeze to elicit a start signal.
If a start is received, all of your settings and hardware are working properly.
