Pre-Season Timing Checklist

As the season ramps up, many FinishLynx systems come out of storage after months of inactivity. Work through these twelve steps before your first meet and your results will be accurate and reliable from the start.

1. Inspect your equipment

   Gather every component: cameras, cables, connection boxes, tripods and accessories.

   • Check for visible damage, corrosion or worn connectors
   • Confirm all required cables and adapters are present
   • Keep spare network cables and connectors on hand
2. Update FinishLynx software

   Make sure every timing computer is running the latest version of FinishLynx.

   • Open Help | About to check your version
   • Download updates from Software
   • Update every computer used at meets
3. Verify plug-ins and licenses

   If you use plug-ins like LapTime or FieldLynx:

   • Confirm plug-ins are installed and activated
   • Check that serial numbers are recognized
   • Test each one before your first event
4. Connect and boot the camera

   Before launching FinishLynx:

   • Confirm network settings (static IP if required)
   • Temporarily disable the firewall if needed for setup
   • Connect the camera directly to your computer for the first test
   • Boot the camera and check the status lights (what the lights mean)
5. Test network connections

   Reliable connections are critical.

   • Test each cable individually
   • Reboot the camera on different connections
   • Replace any unreliable or damaged cables
   • Use a network switch, not a router, where possible
6. Check remote camera controls

   If your system has remote features:

   • Test zoom, focus and iris controls
   • Check the remote positioner (pan, tilt, swivel)
   • Avoid over-driving the motors: use controlled movements
7. Test start systems

   Check both wired and wireless starts.

   • Wired: connect and trigger a test start, and confirm FinishLynx receives it
   • RadioLynx: check pairing and channel settings
   • RadioLynx: confirm the signal transmits and is received
   • RadioLynx: verify camera and start are synchronized (RadioLynx troubleshooting)
8. Test USB ports and adapters

   Make sure every USB connection works.

   • Plug adapters into each port
   • Confirm new COM ports appear in FinishLynx (if they don’t)
   • Check for driver issues or warnings in Device Manager
9. Verify meet management integration

   Confirm the timing system talks to your meet management software.

   • Set up shared directories
   • Test importing event schedules
   • Test exporting results
   • On a single computer, confirm all directories line up (Databases)
10. Test external devices

    If you use scoreboards, wind gauges or other devices:

    • Verify serial or network connections
    • Send test data: time, results, wind readings (scoreboard scripts)
    • Confirm the display is correct and data comes back
11. Review training resources

    Take advantage of the support material.

    • Watch the setup and training videos
    • Review new features and workflows in the release notes
    • Make sure every operator is familiar with the system
12. Bookmark the online manual

    The FinishLynx online manual is a valuable resource.

    • Search it for setup instructions and troubleshooting (open the manual)
    • Review updated features and workflows
    • Keep it bookmarked for quick reference during meets

Common problems at the start of a season

• FinishLynx can’t find the camera (flashing amber BOOT light) — Often after a new laptop or a Windows update reset the network or firewall settings.
• Installing FinishLynx on a new computer — Many teams move to a Windows 11 laptop in spring. Install before meet week.
• Lost serial numbers — Have the FinishLynx and plug-in serials ready before you reinstall.
• RadioLynx transmitter doesn’t beep with the start — Charge the transmitter fully after storage, then test with the paperclip test.
• Capture button not working — A new computer gives the USB adapter a new COM port.
• Automatic capture not working
• IdentiLynx image blurry or won’t focus
• Can’t control the remote iris
• Two computers can’t share the meet

Camera connection issues

• Confirm correct IP settings
• Disable wireless network connections
• Temporarily disable firewall and antivirus
• Connect directly to the camera
• Try a different computer if needed

More help

Wireless start issues

• Verify matching settings on transmitter and receiver
• Check power levels and connections
• Confirm the configuration in FinishLynx
• Reapply the settings if necessary

More help