What are the minimum computer requirements for a laptop to run the FinishLynx software?
Any Windows computer from the last ten years or so. Windows only, no Mac, iPad or Chromebook; more RAM and storage help with large events.
Windows operating system. All FinishLynx software and plug-ins are developed for Windows, so every computer used by a FinishLynx operator must be running some version of Windows. FinishLynx is not compatible with Apple, iOS, Android or Linux, and we don't recommend trying to port it to another operating system.
Using a Mac? See FinishLynx runs on Windows only in Known limitations.
FinishLynx is compatible with all modern versions of Windows, including Windows 11. If you plan to use it with Windows 11, review the Windows 11 compatibility information first.
Minimum computer specifications. Generally, any Windows-based computer purchased in the last 10+ years should be powerful enough to run FinishLynx, LynxPad and all other Lynx software. The more RAM and hard drive space it has, the easier it will be to capture large events.
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 98 or later | Windows 10 or later |
| Processor | 500 MHz | 2 GHz Core i7 or higher |
| RAM | 512 MB | 8 GB or higher |
| Storage | 16 GB HD | 512 GB SSD or higher |
| Screen resolution | 800 × 600 | 1920 × 1080 or higher |
| Network card | 10/100 Ethernet | 10/100/1000 Ethernet (RJ45 port) |
| USB ports | 1 | 2 or more |
| Nice to have | — | Number pad, matte screen |
What your IT department should set up on a timing computer is in the Computer and IT readiness checklist.
Goes deeper
- Computer and IT readiness checklist — Troubleshoot · Software · FinishLynx · Install and computer setup
Related questions
- We just got a new package. What do we need, and how long does setup take? — A Windows computer (two recommended), a couple of hours with the quick start guide, and meet management software such as LynxPad for events and start lists.
- How do I move FinishLynx and my plug-ins to a new computer? — Record every serial from Help | About on the old computer, install the current FinishLynx on the new one with the FinishLynx serial, then run each plug-in's own installer with its serial.
- Can I keep the firewall on? Which ports does FinishLynx need? — Yes. Allow Lynx.exe through Windows Defender Firewall for Private and Public networks, and open UDP ports 45780 (camera boot) and 41925 (camera communication).