Video Assisted Timer

THIS_HELP_ARTICLE_URL: https://raceapp.nethelp/vat

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Our Video Assisted Timer (VAT) is a step in between a manual hand timer and a Fully Automated (FAT) system. It is a great option for distance races where you do not need FAT-level precision.

Equipment Options

Recommended: iPad on a tripod - Best screen size for seeing the finish line and controls - Works right in your web browser - no app to install - Position it perpendicular to the finish line for the best camera angle

Also works: Laptop with external webcam - Good option if you prefer a larger screen or keyboard - Webcam should be positioned at the finish line

In a pinch: Phone (handheld) - Will still work and give great results - Harder to hold steady for long races

Pro Tip: USB Number Pad

When using an iPad, plug in a USB number pad. This gives you a physical button to press, which is much more comfortable and reliable than tapping the screen - especially for fast finishes where runners are close together and you need to press quickly.

How It Works

1. Navigate to your race and tap “Camera Timer” (VAT)
2. Grant camera access when prompted
3. Position your device so the camera shows the finish line
4. As each person crosses the finish line, press the Mark button (or hit a key on your number pad)
5. A series of images are captured both before and after each button press
   • This gives you a visual record of each finisher without scrolling through long videos
   • Saved images are imprinted with the timestamp
6. Times are auto-saved to your race results and immediately published to the public results page along with the images
   • Athletes, families, and spectators can see times and finish line photos before the race even finishes!

Remote Starts

If your start and finish are in different locations (common for cross country), you can start the race using the Hand Timer on your phone at the start line, then switch to the VAT on your iPad at the finish line. They share the same clock, so your times will be accurate.

Matching Athletes to Times

After capturing times, you’ll need to match athletes to their times. Options:

• Scan QR codes - fastest and most reliable
• Enter assigned numbers
• Scan handwritten results

For the smoothest results, we recommend scanning QR codes.

When to Use VAT vs Other Methods

Use VAT When	Use Something Else When
Distance races (800m+)	Sprints needing precision → FAT Timer
Cross country meets	You need frame-by-frame accuracy but don’t have the FAT microphone setup → Video Timer
You want finish photos for spectators

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Next: Built-in Hand Timer Previous: FAT Timer App