Testing an activated detection loop Installation

Once the loop has been installed, it should be tested to ensure that it is functioning correctly. We also recommend repeating the same procedure at the start of each race event. You can determine if your loop is functioning correctly by doing the following tests:

Connect the activated detection loop to the decoder and computer running Track Timing software (also see paragraph 2.2 Installation of the TranX2 Single Loop Decoder). Check the background noise, which is updated every 5 seconds in the Track Timing software. The background noise level should be between 0 and 40. A higher value may indicate a bad loop installation. Try switching off the activator and check for a change in the background noise. A higher value may also indicate interference by other electrical equipment in the area. Try switching off any suspected equipment or removing nearby objects and check for improvements. Especially at night, short-wave radios may cause an increased background noise.

LEARNED BY EXPERIENCE

A metal timekeeping building can cause the system to pick up more interference via the coax cabling, which can result in an increased background noise
Check the signal strengths of the transponders as they are picked up by the system during a reality test (also see paragraph 2.3 Installation of the Transponder). A good loop will yield consistent transponder signal strengths of at least 80 with a hit rate of at least 20. The hit rate may vary depending on the speed of the transponder passings (slower passings yield higher hit counts), but the signal strength should be consistent (approximately 10 points variance) for the same kart.

Testing an activated detection loop Installation

LEARNED BY EXPERIENCE