This lap counter is a simple and reliable item, but we are experiencing a bit too much missed laps... it is not its fault, our track is too large and we do not use the mandatory reflecting pad shown in the picture.
So we are moving to a computer based lap counter with photo resistor triggered by passing car; it will use home made sensors wired to parallel port and the software is a very good and simple to use win-based free program made by Gregory Braun for slotcar timing (more info on his website hoslotcarracing.com).
Meanwhile I made a last chance mod to Tomy lap counter... I opened it and soldered an external battery case to boost power feed from 3,0 V (2 x AAA) to 4,5 V (3 x AA).
Well, it simply doesn't work... with higher power the lcd screen flickers a lot and triggering distance is REDUCED and not enhanced !!!
Epic fail this time, mr Icandoit !!
So I unsoldered the battery pack and restored it to its original status... everything is fine now, lcd screen doesn't flicker and triggering distance is back to almost 10 cm... I'll try a small mirror to enhance triggering distance, stay tuned !!
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Edit
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I solved the problem with a small cd piece, it reflects IR light very well and now it doesn't miss a lap !!
Everything is fine but I'll work on pc based lap counter ;)
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