RFID scoring in the MHSC

We have been using RFID scoring for motorcycles since 2003.

RFID stands for Radio Frequency IDentification. The tags are the size of a credit card and we program them with the rider's number. The tags are taped to the under-side of the racer's helmet visor so you need to bring your helmet with you when you sign up. If the racer has a chrome visor then we have to place the transponder tag inside the helmet liner, or change to a larger tag with better read range. The moral of the story is that chrome visors and helmets block the radio signal coming from the tag. Even though the chrome visors and helmets look really cool, get a regular helmet and visor to make everyone's life easier.

We set up scoring lanes to run all the racers through a single file line. The RFID system reads the rider's numbers as they come through the scoring lanes using a radio antenna. We also place a number on the left jaw of the rider's helmet. This number is used for our manual backup. The main reason a rider has to slow down through the scoring lanes is so us humans can read the number on the rider's helmet. As the rider passes under the antenna the computer records the number and sends it to the display so the rider can see they were scored.

Keep in mind that ignition noise from either one will interfere with reading the tag. Move slowly and steadily through the scoring lanes. Don't rev your engine and look straight ahead to see the display and so the scoring crew can read your back-up helmet number. When you see your number on the display pop-up, then go! If it doesn't come up, the scoring crew will write down your number and tell you when it's okay for you to go. If your number doesn't pop-up and you go before they tell you, then you may not get scored for that lap.