MD-300 User’s Manual Page 9
MD-300 User’s Manual Page 9 (Cont’d)
THE ELECTRIC EYES
The infrared light source (Transmitter) outputs an invisible
light beam that is detected by the infrared light detector
(Receiver). When the light beam between them is broken, the
timer is either started, stopped or both based on the type of
event currently selected on the MD-300 Timer Console.
When the timer is started by breaking the light beam, the
time automatically resets to zero before starting in the same
manner as when the
START/STOP
button is pressed.
Whenever the beam is broken to start or stop the timer, the
Timer Console "beeps" to alert you about the event. This is
useful for detecting accidental interruptions of the beam.
When the same pair of electric eyes is used to both start and
stop the timer (e.g., barrel racing), the beam is ignored for
about two seconds after it is broken. This provides time for
dust to settle after the rider passes through the electric
eyes. Note: If you have need for a longer or shorter period
that the eyes are ignored, you can change this delay. Con-
tact FarmTek for more information.
The Receiver is connected to the Timer Console via a 125
foot cable. This cable is used to signal the Timer Console
when the light beam is broken. The Transmitter needs no
connection to the Timer Console. A typical arena set-up for
barrel racing is shown below:
Transmitter
Receiver
Console in
Announcer's
Stand
Entry
Chute
125'
Cable
Arena
Infrared Light Source - Transmitter
The Transmitter is labeled "Transmitter" on its rear panel.
The Transmitter outputs the infrared light beam that is de-
tected by the Receiver. The infrared light is emitted through
the solid black front panel. The Transmitter has built in re-
chargeable batteries to allow operation in the arena without
A/C power. However, if by mistake the batteries were not
charged, the Transmitter can be operated by plugging it in.
The Transmitter must be switched on to operate. If an A/C
power adapter is plugged into the Transmitter, the unit runs
from A/C power. If an A/C adapter is not plugged in, the
unit runs from its internal batteries. When not in use, the
Transmitter must be switched off to prevent discharge of the
batteries.
Charging the Transmitter Batteries
The Transmitter is not charged when shipped. It should
be given a full charge, as outlined below, as soon as
possible. After a full battery charge, the Transmitter will op-
erate about twelve hours. Typically, this is enough time to
use the Transmitter on several occasions before recharging
is necessary. In fact, it is actually better for the batteries to
be used for ten to twelve total hours before recharging,
rather than just a few hours – as if recharged after each
use.
To recharge the Transmitter, plug it into a wall outlet using
either of the A/C power adapters for about 14 hours. Make
sure the unit is off when recharging. Do not leave the Trans-
mitter charging for a single period of more than about 14
hours.
If the condition of the battery is not known, or the Trans-
mitter has not been used for over a month, you can max-
imize performance of the battery by fully discharging and
then fully charging the battery. This should be done a day or
two before your event. To discharge the battery, leave the
Transmitter on until the red battery light stops flashing.
Then turn the Transmitter off and give the unit a full 14
hour charge. Do not store the Transmitter while it is fully
discharged – it should be charged within a day or so after
begin discharged.
