Cheap single lane timer but not a kit?

[PWD]

I am looking for a cheap, single lane, timer. I don't want to build from a kit. I have the NewBold timer but have not been happy with it's durability. I see they have a new timer that looks interesting. But wonder if the build quality will be any better.

What other options are available? This is just for testing so don't care about:

- Flash photography issues
- Don't have a problem using a light over a sensor
- Don't need finish order
- Do need an accurate display of the time. Prefer not hooking up to
computer every time.

Looks for options.

Thanks!

-Stev-

[WarpSpeedINC]

What problems have you had with the Newbold?

[gpraceman]

But wonder if the build quality will be any better.

I know you mentioned having a problem with sensors shorting out, but have you had other issues? I have a NewBold DT8000 and have not had any problems with it and to me the build quality is good. With the sensors, a short problem seems to me to be an issue with how they are mounted to the track and with providing protection for the wires and photosensors. With some other commercial timers you will have the same issue since it is up to the customer to mount the sensors or sensor board under the track.

[MaxV]

The makers of "The Judge" have a single lane timer that works well. You can read about it at:

http://www.newdirections.ws/faq.htm#Q13

[PWD]

My problem with the NewBold is with wire breaking on the sensor at the finish line. It has happen a couple of times. My other concern is that where you connect the sensors to the metal terminals just seems flimsy. The board attached to the metal terminals is loose inside. It works but it worries me.

The NewBold is cheap and feature wise is exactly what I needed and still need. I worry it is going to break right before the Derby and I am going to be screwed.


I am considering.

1) Buy another DT1000 as a backup
2) Buy the new NewBold timer.
3) Try to find another single lane timer that displays actual time for under $150.

-Stev-

[mrvoltz]

Mine does need a computer but the whole thing, sensor system and software cost me less than $150, and it does 4 lanes to 4 decimal places.
I'm working on something simple for testing purposes.