What do I need?
Start with
what you have.
An iPad, or a computer and a suitable camera. A stable position at the
line. A plan for power. Your visual backup can start there.
Two ways to get started.
Choose the setup that suits the way your team works. Confirm device
suitability with us before buying hardware.
One device at the line
The iPad setup
The camera and the app are on the same device. Use it
independently at a finish or split, or analyze a recording later.
Our recommendation
Choose an
iPad Air or iPad Pro with an M-series chip.
Check the chip in the exact model, particularly when buying used.
What to plan for
- A suitable iPad running Timing Eyes
- A secure tripod or mount
- Enough battery or external power for your session
- Free storage for your footage
- A license that covers the iPad
Uses the built-in camera or imported video. External live cameras
are a computer option.
A view from the timing desk
The computer setup
Run Timing Eyes on a Windows PC or Mac. Connect a suitable camera,
or import video you recorded at the line.
Our recommendations
Mac:
Choose a Mac with an Apple silicon processor.
Windows:
Choose a laptop with an AI processor (NPU), such as a Copilot+ PC,
or a suitable graphics processor (GPU).
What to plan for
- A suitable Windows computer or Mac
- A compatible USB or network camera, or recorded video
- A stable camera mount and the required cables
- Power and storage for the computer and camera
- A license that includes desktop use
A network camera needs a local connection to the computer. Camera
compatibility varies; check your model first.
Everyday cameras.
High-quality analysis.
Our goal is high-quality analysis using budget-friendly, commodity
cameras.
The analysis runs on your computer or tablet, so you can build
around common USB or compatible network cameras that fit your
budget.
Tell us which device and camera you have, how the finish is
arranged and the kind of field you expect. We can discuss whether
that setup is appropriate and what else to account for.
Budget for the software license separately from hardware. A mount,
cables, power and storage are part of the setup too. Starting with
one line gives you a practical way to learn what your race needs
before expanding.
Discuss the equipment I already own
→The essentials, whichever route you choose
A useful picture
starts with
a good position.
A clear view of runners and bibs
Position the camera where people, signs and equipment won’t block
the approach. Check the picture with someone crossing the line.
Cameras on both sides of the finish
We recommend a camera on each side of the finish line. A bib
hidden from one angle may be clear from another, giving your team
more evidence to review.
A stable mount and reliable power
Keep the camera still and plan power for the whole session. Allow
time to check the setup before the race starts.
Enough space to keep the recording
Plan storage around the recording length and quality. Keep your
footage available for review after race day.
Connection questions
At one line.
Or alongside
your computer.
Can I use it without venue Wi-Fi?
Yes. With a standard license, your computer or iPad can work
offline for up to 30 days after its last successful online
license check. Connect before your event to refresh the check.
Footage is processed locally. A network camera still needs a
local connection to your computer.
What if I want iPad results on my computer?
A connected iPad processes at the line and sends crossings and
images to the computer through the Timing Eyes service. That
connection needs internet and a desktop license with
connected-iPad seats. Uploads queue while disconnected.
For a disconnected field camera, you can record and export a
field camera file from the iPad, then import it on the computer
later.
Can I start with video I’ve already recorded?
Yes. The iPad and computer support imported video. It is a
useful way to get familiar with the app and see how your camera
view and bibs work before a live race.
Which iPad, computer or camera should I buy?
Use our processor recommendations as your starting point. Check
the exact device model, camera connections and expected race
workload with us before buying.
Let’s make a plan for your equipment.
Start with what you own. See the app, ask questions and work out
what your race needs.
