Enymind Oy

Technology comparison

Active transponders

In active technology transponders are equipped with a rechargeable battery. Inside a transponders there is a small radio transmitter which sends radio signals to the receiving unit. Receiving unit is called a reader or a decoder and it does not send any radio waves, it just listens.

Antenna of the reader is usually buried underground. Transponder's radio signal is strong enough to penetrate the soil. Antenna is then connected to the reader unit which is again connected to the timekeeping computer.

Active
Active transponders

Passive tags

In passive technology tags or transponders are not rechargeable. In fact there is no battery at all in the tag. Tag gains it's power from the receiving unit which is called a reader. While the tag passes a reader field, it is powered up. After powering up it sends radio signal back to the reader.

Antenna of the reader needs to be overground, at top of, or at the side of a track. This is because radio signal from the passive tag is too weak to penetrate the soil. Antenna is then connected to the reader unit which is again connected to the timekeeping computer.

Passive

Passive tags

Speed and costs

Active transponderPassive tag
Maximum speed260 km/h160 km/h
Battery lifeSeveral daysForever
Cost per. tag$$$0.$
Cost per. reader$$$$$$$
Accuracy
(at max. speed)		0.001 sec0.05 sec

Which one is the best for us?

Keep in mind your needs. Is your sport fast or slow? Does a participant count rise over 200? Are conditions harsh, maybe wet and muddy?

For athletic sports like marathon, triathlon, or bicycling we would strongly recommend passive technology. For fast motorsports we would suggest active technology. Something between, the choice is yours.

Don't hesitate to contact our sales and ask for J2Chrono software!

Contact sales Supported reader devices

To order hardware please contact manufacturer resellers.
Enymind Oy does not resell hardware directly to end-customers.

SMARTRAC and DogBone are registered trademarks of ©SMARTRAC N.V.

J2Chrono environment

ChronoLive ChronoLive, a realtime Internet result platform
J2Chrono J2Chrono, a result service application server
Reporting Reporting, a result service management and publishing software
ChronoFly ChronoFly, a timeline software
LiveDisplay LiveDisplay, a realtime result screen on event site
Passive tag Passive transponder attached to a vehicle