Start switch type Micro wizard Fast Track K3 timer?

[PWD]

I was curious what type of start switch does the Micro wizard Fast Track K3 timer come with by default? Is it a mechanical switch? Magnetic? etc

Thanks!

[gpraceman]

Mechanical

[PWD]

We have two timers. One timer is a NewBold timer and it uses a spring loaded mechanical switch. The other timer is triggered by a piece of metal within the vicinity and then moving away. I really don't know how it works.

I was surprised to find that cars are .0150 faster with the mechanical switch. Basically it takes .0150 seconds for the mechanical switch to trigger. The start peg is spring loaded and the two switches are placed at the same location. I find this significant.

[gpraceman]

We have two timers. One timer is a NewBold timer and it uses a spring loaded mechanical switch. The other timer is triggered by a piece of metal within the vicinity and then moving away. I really don't know how it works.

I was surprised to find that cars are .0150 faster with the mechanical switch. Basically it takes .0150 seconds for the mechanical switch to trigger. The start peg is spring loaded and the two switches are placed at the same location. I find this significant.

Your second switch sounds like a magnetic one. With magnetic switches, I believe that there is a certain distance that the two switch parts need to be from each other before the start is recognized. This may account for the time difference that you see between the two types of switches.

[tmbnorm]

Our Microwizard K2 uses a microswitch that is mounted to the side of the track. The Piantedosi start gate is spring loaded. I think this is the best way to get consistent times.

The track that was used at our district used a laser gate that was about 5 inches in front of the cars. The start gate was not spring loaded, so the start was dependant upon the person flipping the pegs over.

[BigDozer66]

The K3 Grand Prix Kit that I just received has a Laser Start Gate and the mechanical switch (I think?) with it.

My Piantedosi Freedom hasn't arrived yet so I don't know what all is there. When I get to assembling it I will find some answers and I am sure I will have many questions!

Lynn