🕒 TrackMate Analog Timing System – 4 Lane Kit Precision Timing for Competitive Analog Racing While we love the Carrera App Connect and SmartRace app for digital timing, when it comes to analog racing, TrackMate is our top choice. This system is the gold standard for analog slot car timing—offering robust performance, intuitive software, and rock-solid reliability. 💡 Why Choose TrackMate? Vibrant on-screen race displays Real-time lap tracking with high accuracy Sound effects and flexible race formats Power and clock functions controlled by high-quality relays Trusted by racers for over a decade 🧰 What’s Included: TrackMate SCL3 USB Interface 10-foot USB cable Sensor cable 16" Overhead bridge with high-intensity IR LEDs (Wide enough for 4 lanes of 1/24 Carrera or any narrower track) Track power relay module Jumbo pause/restart button Mini relay panel (no soldering required) USB thumb drive with the current version of TrackMate software 🚫 Not Included: Windows PC (required for operation) A few feet of 16-gauge wire (to connect relay and call button) Support for light bar. We intentionally do not supply a bridge or gantry for the TrackMate light bar. In our experience, the standard TrackMate bridge is not a great solution, and—more importantly—there is no single “right” bridge for all tracks. Bridge choice is highly personal and depends on two key factors: Appearance – scenic realism vs. purely functional Durability – how crash-resistant the structure needs to be 🛠️ Ultra-Robust / Damage-Resistant Option The most bulletproof solution we’ve used is a simple, shop-built design made from: Two solid wood uprights Two strips of aluminum L-channel supporting the light bar It’s not fancy, but it’s nearly indestructible and ideal for clubs, rentals, or tracks where cars will fly. I’ve attached a photo of this style so you can see how straightforward and effective it is. 🌄 Scenic Bridges & Gantries If you’re after a more realistic or decorative look, we strongly recommend Slot Car Scenics. They offer dozens of bridge and gantry designs, ranging from modern race gantries to classic scenic bridges—plenty of options to match your track’s theme. You can browse their bridge and gantry selection here: https://www.racetrackscenics.com/#/ This system is compatible with any modern Windows PC via USB. The software runs in demo mode without the hardware, making it easy to explore before installation. 📘 Installation Guide : View the TrackMate Manual (insert your actual link) 🏁 Built for Hybrid Tracks We offer a custom-configured version ideal for Digital/Analog hybrid tracks—delivering flawless lap detection and precise control. 🔧 Tech Support & Community Need help installing or optimizing your setup? Reach out! We’re here to help. You're also welcome to visit us at the SlotCarClubhouse in Sherwood, Arkansas—home to pro-grade racing, tech demos, and track design services. Let’s race! ~ Jim Cunningham Founder of OmniSlotBox & SlotCarClubhouse