GPS Lap timer

[REPTYL]

I've been thinking about getting a lap timer for a while now.
I have watched as GPS technology snuck in the door a few years back.
I'm just wondering whether any problems or bugs (if any) have been worked out in the time since it arrival on to the market.
Is this technology is now a good value alternative to the old inferred beacon technology?

Is there anyone in Cobra land utilising the model listed in this link?

starlane Athon_GPSR_chrono_GPS

[Krait]

I reckon if you only wanted a general indication of laptime then a gps based system would be ok.

The problem with gps is the accuracy can vary depending on a number of variables such as the ephemeris data (precise orbital data) from each of the satellites it detects, whether the gps has clear line of sight of sufficient satellites and whether the signal is bouncing of off objects before it gets to the gps receiver (anecdotal reports is that even a bald head can affect the signal).

Google 'gps accuracy' and you'll see what I mean

Using a ground station (DGPS) to transmit a fixed location greatly enhances accuracy but the equipment to receive is expensive and accuracy is reported to be about 3 metres. The US has a system called WAAS but it is unavailable in Australia.

I was involved in a community GPS mapping project in Malaysia. We would be happy if we had 6 metre (radius) accuracy when tracking roads and kept vehicle speeds to <60kph otherwise the track would overshoot on bends.

Hope this helps.

[Dimi]

Hi Guys
Log onto' Racer Industries' website.
They have a nice little performance logger.
Dimi

[acecob]

Here's a tip , most new phones now have gps and nav stuff on them,
you can download a little prog called sports tracker it utillises gps and maps ur circuit gives you speed and basically all the info you need, its pretty neat

[LoBelly]

Looks like a groovy bit of kit Jason

Do you know how much and where from?

ta
LB

[kayakjack]

Try this...

www.traqmate.com

I've used it. It will give you lots more data than simple lap times. Very accurate. Highly recommended!!

Jack

[kayakjack]

I googled them. Here's the link to the Australian distributor...

http://www.traqmate.com.au/

Jack