Dress Up Your Finish Line for Improved FinishLynx Images
Having a crisp, white finish line is the quickest way to ensure clear FinishLynx captures. It doesn’t matter if your finish line is on a track, along the grass, or across a paved road. Depending on your situation, you can choose to use white gaffers tape (matte, non-glossy), chalk, or even paint (if allowed) to improve your finish line.
When re-painting the finish line is not an option, a very useful tool for timers to have with them is white gaffer tape which can be both a cheap and effective way to drastically improve the FinishLynx image. Even if the finish line at your meet isn’t the worst you’ve seen, making this minor enhancement still offers a big improvement in the quality of your photo-finish images (see example image below). The key thing to remember with gaffer tape is that it’s non-reflective, whereas something shiny like white duct tape may reflect TOO much light at the camera if it is sunny.
Some choose to go a step further and add black tape to the lane lines which is a great way to clearly identify the lanes in your image. If you don’t want to add black tape, another option is to leave a space without gaffer tape between each lane to help differentiate the lanes. Many users will also add a white post/board on the far end of their finish line. This vertical post extends the white finish line vertically to create more uniform image captures.
Since gaffers tape comes in various sizes, we recommend using the 2″ tape. Two options for gaffers tape can be found below:
First, replace the Ethernet cables one at a time to eliminate the possibility of a bad cable or a bad connection. If you’re using a multi-port switch, try different connection ports in case there is a loose connection or bad contact.
In FinishLynx, click Camera Settings | Input, set Gun Sensor to None. This turns off the wired start connection. The wired start and wireless start are two separate connections in the system and are independent of each other.
Check that the RadioLynx Wireless Start is configured correctly. Open the Camera Settings | RadioLynx tab and be sure the selected item matches the physical connection of the RadioLynx receiver (C-Box, camera back, radio port etc).
Error Aligning Camera
When the camera has not booted and the operator clicks on the Red Stop Sign in the upper left corner to access alignment mode, FinishLynx will display this error message. It signifies that there is no camera available. Make sure that the camera has booted and the camera information line appears across the top of the FinishLynx screen before attempting to open the Alignment Mode.
Spacebar Toggles Capture
If you see this message but are trying to use Automatic Capture Mode, check the following:
Go to the Camera Settings | Capture tab, check Automatic and uncheckManual.
Repeat for all cameras loaded.
Go to File | Options | General tab, and next to Capture Button: uncheck Allow button override.
If you are trying to use a manual capture button, check the following:
Go to File | Options | General tab, and set Capture Button: to the COM port that corresponds with your USB capture button.
Capture Button Serial Port Unavailable
“Capture button serial port unavailable; keyboard capture will be used.” This common error message can appear when starting your FinishLynx software. If you get this message and you’re using Auto Capture but notthe Capture Button, then no further action is required. You can proceed to running your meet as planned.
If youareusing the Capture Button and receive the message above, click here to learn what to do in that instance.
Error 129: Failed Contact Address
Disable Wireless
Open Network and Sharing Center and select Change Adapter Settings.
Right-click Wireless Network and click Disable.
Make sure you are running the correct version of FinishLynx.
To see what version you have, Open FinishLynx then click Help | About…
Some versions of windows require added permissions to enable the IdentiLynx camera. To correct the issue of an IdentiLynx not loading, simply close FinishLynx and run the program as administrator by right-clicking and selecting Run as administrator as seen to the right.
If this does not correct your issue, please check that there are no conflicting IP addresses on your network and contact Lynx technical support if needed.
Introducing the Vision PRO X: The Future of Photo-Finish Technology
We’re excited to announce the release of the EtherLynx Vision PRO X camera. The Vision PRO X combines the user-friendly features of the Vision camera with the speed and power of the Vision PRO, while bringing powerful new features to the world of high-speed sports timing. Capturing a remarkable 40,000 frames per second along with updated features makes the Vision PRO X the ideal photo-finish camera for high-speed applications such as horse racing, motorsports, cycling, and more.
The EtherLynx Vision PRO X is at the forefront of photo-finish technology, setting a new benchmark for precision and performance in sports timing. Engineered for professionals who accept nothing less than the best, this camera offers unparalleled accuracy and superior image quality, making it the ultimate choice for every sport.
[Upgrade] Battery pack allows the camera to withstand power loss.
Find Unmatched Precision & Flexibility with the Vision PRO X
The Vision PRO X camera is easily adaptable to a wide variety of optical perspectives. Whether you need to cover the whole width of a track from a steep angle or a far away narrow track from a lower angle, the Vision PRO X will produce outstanding high-resolution images.
From athletics to motorsports, the Vision PRO X is designed to handle any field condition and any speed. Its continuously variable pixel density ensures precise results regardless of the pace of competition, making it the ideal solution for every sport.
“Many thanks for the efforts you have put into the new 5L700 camera. This sensor is truly a purpose fit for Horse Racing. The image sells itself. The quality of image that can be achieved has never come before in Horse Racing.
For a lot of our clients upgrading to this camera will be a no brainer once we demo the camera to them. It’s only early days for us but I thought I would send the note of – Well done!” -Callan B.
Vision PRO X Image Gallery
5L700 vs 5L600Night racing under flood lights at 12,000 fps5L700 vs 5L30010,000 fps at 5120 pixels
Contact Us Today To Get a Quote on the Vision PRO X
Discover how the Vision PRO X can transform your photo-finish experience.
Haverhill, MA – Lynx Headquarters will be closing for the holiday season. After enjoying a delicious company holiday luncheon, we’re ready to enjoy some time off to spend with family and loved ones. Please reference the image below for our 2024 holiday hours. As always, we want to thank the Lynx community for a fantastic year and wish everyone safe and happy holidays!
Limited technical support will be available during our winter break by calling the office and following the prompts to leave a message: (978) 556-9780. You can also submit a tech support web form, but please be patient as a response may be delayed. We will be back open with regular hours on Tuesday, January 2, 2025.
We’re winning the race at Nevco-FinishLynx! We want every track and field event, skating rink and race track to utilize the latest in scoring and timing technology. The love of the game is at the forefront of everything we do. The FinishLynx product is arguably the most popular and powerful photo-finish results technology in the world. It is used at major sporting events across the globe, including the Olympic Trials, Kentucky Derby, NASCAR, and the Tour de France. Nevco-FinishLynx, is looking to bolster our manufacturing team with a Manufacturing Supervisor at its Haverhill, MA location. When you join Nevco-FinishLynx, you join a team. It’s what we do together that sets us apart.
This role reports to Director of Manufacturing and manages a small team focused on the production of race-timing and photo-finish technologies.
Scope of Responsibility:
Develop and document manufacturing processes
Advance quality assurance procedures and standards
Drive opportunities for product and process improvement
Manage and allocate production manpower resources
Resolve order specifications and details with sales department
Prioritize production schedules to accommodate customers’ needs
Coordinate material planning RMI, WIP, and FGI
Support shipping and receiving efforts; including material storage and cycle counting
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, business or engineering OR equivalent experience/certification.
3+ years prior production management experience preferred
Technical competencies in electronics manufacturing
Proficiency in reporting capacities and MS office suite
Strong background in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing
Strong communication and organizational skills
Excellent interpersonal and team-building abilities
Job Type: Full-time
Location: 179 Ward Hill Ave. Haverhill, MA. Haverhill is an industrial suburb about 25 miles north of Boston. Applicants must be willing to relocate to the Boston area.
Lynx System Developers is the maker of FinishLynx photo-finish technology and produces fully automatic timing systems and sports technology for markets across the world. The company is privately-owned and located in Haverhill, MA. It was founded in 1992 by President and CTO Doug DeAngelis after he developed the prototype for FinishLynx as a graduate student at MIT. As a long-time runner, DeAngelis saw an opportunity to use digital line-scan technology to produce more accurate photo-finish results for sports. Today, FinishLynx is the most popular (and powerful) photo-finish timing system in the world. It is trusted by thousands of customers, including major sporting events like the Olympic Trials, Kentucky Derby, NASCAR, and the Tour de France.
Nevco Sports, LLC is the largest private manufacturer and provider of display, scoring and audio solutions. For over 85 years, Nevco has provided athletic and recreational facilities of all sizes with the most innovative scoring and LED video display products in the industry. Nevco is known for its specialty in designing custom facility solutions, quality of products, and superior long term financial value. Today, Nevco scoring solutions are used to enhance the fan experience at events in more than 100,000 locations around the world.
Washington, DC (5/1/2024) – Together with the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation “Change Your Game / Cambia tu juego” exhibit, will be an evening with Doug DeAngelis. For those in the DC area, we invite you to attend the Innovative Lives event on May 1, 2024 from 6-8:30 PM for snacks, beverages, and an in-depth conversation with DeAngelis on the creation of the FinishLynx digital photo-finish timing camera. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from DeAngelis who, at 24 years old, conceptualized the idea to utilize digital line-scan technology to ensure accuracy and precision in track timing that had never been seen before.
Event Schedule:
6:00 P.M. – Doors open, reception begins (open bar and light fare)
7:00 P.M. – Last call
7:15 P.M. – Fireside chat with Doug DeAngelis, moderated by Eric Hintz
The National Museum of American History welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities. ASL interpreters are provided for in-person programs. Additional accommodations are available upon request; please email nmahprograms@si.edu.
Read the full history of Lynx System Developers here.
We understand that FinishLynx operators come from various backgrounds and levels of timing experience, so we have created resources for users to become more familiar with their equipment. Pre-season is the best time to get started so you’re as prepared as possible come meet-time.
1. Takeyour camera out of hibernation.
We understand this is an obvious step, but we feel it needs to be said! It’s very important to perform a visual check of all equipment first to ensure nothing is missing or broken ahead of the upcoming season. If you do need to request a repair, you can submit an RMA in our online RMA portal.
2. Download the latest version of FinishLynx.
The FinishLynx software is updated periodically and we recommend you download the latest version. Software updates are always free to download. You can find the latest version (currently 12.21) on our FinishLynx Software page along with any supporting documentation.
To check what version you’re currently running, open FinishLynx and click Help | About. While you’re here, take note of the FinishLynx serial number. You will need this when installing a new version of the software.
3. Take a look through our online resources.
Quick Start Guides – We include a QSG for every product that we ship, but if you misplace yours, they can all be found on our website. These documents are essential for learning how to use FinishLynx systems. We provide step-by-step instructions on how to set up the technology and get it up and running. Go one impressive step further and print/laminate your QSG.
Online Help Manual – Another go-to resource for becoming a FinishLynx master is our online, searchable, mobile-friendly software manual. You can begin with the “Getting Started” section, or look up more specific topics if you’re having trouble with a particular piece of equipment or system. This manual is updated each time the FinishLynx software is updated.
YouTube Tutorial Videos – More of a visual learner? Not a problem! Our YouTube channel has plenty of technical support videos from the basic hardware setup to more advanced functions within the FinishLynx software. We even have a playlist called “New User FinishLynx Timing System Setup“ which will get you started with all the basics. Be sure to subscribe to our channel to receive updates each time we add a new video.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Since we have quite a bit of experience providing technical support for FinishLynx products and accessories, we put together some of the more common questions that our tech support team has run into over the years. This list includes topics about purchasing FinishLynx, Camera Setup, FinishLynx Software & Networking, and more. Fore more detailed information on how to set up your timing system, you should refer back to our Quick Start Guides, or, as always, our technical support team is just one phone call or email away.
Keyboard Shortcuts – FinishLynx is a powerful software application that interfaces with many database programs and supports a variety of plug-ins and third-party hardware. As a result, the software menus/interface can be intimidating for some new users which is why we’ve created keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts allow users to quickly perform some of the most common commands found during event captures, such as arming or saving an event. The software also allows users to program their own custom shortcuts called “hot-keys.” A list of pre-programmed commands can be found on our Keyboard Shortcuts page.
Tips & Tricks – No matter how many cameras or upgrades you have, FinishLynx is only as powerful as the person behind the timing system. We asked a group of expert Lynx service providers what knowledge they think is essential for any new timer to know. We compiled this list on our Tips & Tricks webpage and know their advice is invaluable.
4. Get to know the Lynx technical support team.
Call or Email – We pride ourselves on our ability to help customers in unlocking the full potential of FinishLynx technology. You can reach our knowledgeable tech support team via our main line: (978) 556-9780 or by emailing support@finishlynx.com.
Technical Support Training – Still stumped? Lynx offers remote training for FinishLynx users at an additional cost. We are also happy to connect you with a local FinishLynx operator in your area who can provide in-person training. Please submit a form here and a member of the Lynx training staff will be in touch shortly.
5. Get Social!
Over the many years that Lynx has been around, we’ve watched as the community of timers and operators has grown. On Facebook, we have a FinishLynx Sports Timers group where members can post technical questions or brag about their latest race (we love the photos- please keep them coming!).
In addition to Facebook, you can also connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. On Instagram, we love re-posting our customers’ content, so once you figure out your system and are ready to show off a little bit, be sure to tag us or use the #FinishLynx hashtag.
VeriLight brings technology recently showcased at the highest level of competition and makes it available for all. This Ethernet (PoE) device can be managed from VeriLynx, FinishLynx or FieldLynx and serves as a multi-purpose, remote-controlled, indicator light. Are you struggling to find all the officials needed to run an event? Use it with VeriLynx or FieldLynx to flag foot fouls in the Long or Triple Jump. Is communication between the timer and the starter a challenge? Use VeriLight with FinishLynx to inform the starter that the next race is armed and ready for a start.
Pre-defined and customizable scoreboard scripts (LSS files) are provided to quickly become operational. Simply connect VeriLight to your network via PoE and you are ready to go.
Features
Multi-color (5-tier) signal tower
Ethernet connection with PoE support
Free-standing platform
Seamless Integration with VeriLynx, FinishLynx and FieldLynx
Customizable lights and sound via scoreboard script (LSS)
TIP: To preserve your current settings, do not uninstall the old version.
VeriLight Support
VeriLight, an Ethernet (PoE) device, can be managed from VeriLynx, FinishLynx (or FieldLynx) and serves as a multi-purpose, remote-controlled, indicator light. Use it with VeriLynx to show foul/valid attempts or with FinishLynx to show when a race is armed and ready for the next start.
TIP: VeriLight defaults to 192.168.0.99 and listening on port 10000.
To use VeriLight with VeriLynx:
Alt-F (VeriLight | Foul) will toggle VeriLight red/off to indicate a foul.
Alt-V (VeriLight | Valid) will toggle VeriLight green/off.
To use VeriLight with FinishLynx.
To use VeriLight with FinishLynx:
Create a new scoreboard object.
Select VeriLight_Ready.lss
Set the IP Address and Port to 192.168.0.99 and 10000.
Set Running time = Auto
Simply arm the next event for VeriLight to light up green. It will turn off after a start signal is received.
Scoreboard Scripts
VeriLight.lss is added.
VeriLight_Ready.lss is added.
ResulTV_VeriLynx.lss can show valid/foul on ResulTV standard layouts when using the VeriLynx profile.
ResulTV_Video_VeriLynx.lss can show valid/foul on ResulTV video layouts when using the VeriLynx profile.
ResulTV_Video_1line.lss is updated to display the wind in the header row when applicable.
ResulTV_Video_3lines.lss is updated to display the wind in the header row when applicable.
ResulTV_Video_1line-360.lss is a customized ResulTV video layout for the Lynx 360 display.
ResulTV_AutoSwitch.lss simplifies setting up layout switching.
VDMPlaceNameTime.lss is updated to display the wind in the header row when applicable.
Nevco_123.lss is updated.
Nevco_Matrix.lss is added.
Nevco_x6xx.lss is added.
Additional Updates
Language (LNG) File Updates
de_DE.lng
en_VL.lng
White Balance Defaults
When a Vision-Series camera is initially booted it will use updated white balance default values:
Vision (5L500): RGB = 90,0,120
Vision PRO (5L600): RGB = 90,0,60
User Interface Improvements
Internal RadioLynx Frequency selecetion box(Camera Settings | RadioLynx tab) displays the corresponding HiLink value between brackets (e.g. 0001(47) where 47 is the HiLink equivalent of 0001).
Installer Updates
The en_US.lng is no longer overwritten when a new version is installed.
NOTE: Run FinishLynx as Administrator (right-click shortcut + Run As Administrator) for best performance.
Advanced – Other Settings
Additional Other (hidden) settings are included:
Event\LargeFile now defaults to 15000 (240mb).
Event\WarnCropped now defaults to 0 (disabled).
Scoreboard#\TCPEchoBytes determines if data received from a device are echoed back (legacy/default) or not (value = 0)
Haverhill, MA – Lynx Headquarters will be closing for the holiday season. After enjoying a delicious company holiday luncheon, we’re ready to take some needed time off to spend with family and loved ones. Please reference the image below for our holiday hours. As always, we thank the Lynx community for a fantastic year and wish everyone safe and happy holidays!
Limited technical support will be available during our winter break by calling the office and following the prompts to leave a message: (978) 556-9780. You can also submit a tech support web form but please be patient as a response may be delayed. We will be back open with regular hours on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
Cologne, Germany – We’re just about three weeks away from the 2023 FSB Trade Show in Cologne, Germany. FSB is a global trade exhibition for architects, engineers, and manufacturers in the sports and recreation industries and is held every other year at the Cologne Exhibition Center. This year 28,000 visitors hailing from 119 countries are expected to turn up, including Lynx System Developers. In addition to our usual showing of various FinishLynx photo-finish and front-facing cameras, we’ll also be featuring our new Lynx 360 Display.
We’ve been working hard to prep for this major event. We will be shipping three photo-finish cameras, one IdentiLynx video camera, one Lynx 360 Display, marketing brochures, and dozens of display materials. Special thanks to our German partner ProTime for their continued help coordinating the shipping for this event.
There’s no doubt FSB is a great chance to generate new partnerships and business opportunities. But the reason we love this show is because we get to spend time speaking with our existing partners and customers. We’re expecting to see dozens of our international resellers this year, 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: 10.1 – Stand: G019
Dates: Tuesday October 24th – Friday October 27th
To see the full schedule for attendees, please visit the FSB website here.
We look forward to seeing you in Cologne! Send an email to International Sales and we would love to meet up.
