Modifying an Old Awana Timer

Commercial timing systems
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davem
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Modifying an Old Awana Timer

Post by davem »

Anyone ever modified an older version of the Awana timer to add a serial port interface?

We've got one of the older models with digital read-out over the track, and want to connect it via parallel or serial port to work with GP Race Manager.
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gpraceman
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Re: Modifying an Old Awana Timer

Post by gpraceman »

davem wrote:Anyone ever modified an older version of the Awana timer to add a serial port interface?

We've got one of the older models with digital read-out over the track, and want to connect it via parallel or serial port to work with GP Race Manager.
You will not be able to add a serial port interface. Well you could, but you'd be better off buying the Fast Track kit with serial port interface than trying to add all of the necessary electronics.

You may be able to modify it to interface on the parallel port, assuming it is a 5V system. Essentially you would just be using the sensors and the start switch. The timing would actually be done by the GrandPrix Race Manager software on your computer.

Personally, I think you are better off building one of the DITY timers listed at http://grandprix-race-central.com/modul ... page&pid=5 than trying to modify that old timer.
Randy Lisano
Romans 5:8

Awana Grand Prix and Pinewood Derby racing - Where a child, an adult and a small block of wood combine for a lot of fun and memories.
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