Timing a race or training session is something that, although it may seem simple, hides many more details and complexities than we can imagine. Increasing complexity as we seek more precision in our measurements and data. This is where Photocells comes in, an app with which automatic timing is as easy as putting your iPhone on a tripod.
As easy as focusing the iPhone and letting the app take care of everything
In its conception, Photocells is very simple: we place our iPhone in a vertical position and, thanks to the camera, the app will count a lap, a start or an end of the race when something passes in front of it. This simplicity, which allows us to explain an app in a single sentence, permeates the entire design making, as we add complexity, ease of use is maintained.
Photocells is designed to time both circular and linear routes. In the first case, as we have already said, simply point the central indicator at the goal or reference line to be able to take measurements. In the second we will need two iPhones, one to measure the beginning of the race and the other to measure the end.
An app that simplifies and makes it cheaper to carry out precise measurements: from photocells to iPhones.
The good thing about the system is that we can use any iPhone with the app installed to perform measurements. Every time we start a measurement session, the app offers us a code that we can use to join and contribute our data. Alternatively we can use a single iPhone or iPad to view all data in real time without having to keep an eye on an iPhone in a specific location.
Finally the app offers us start the race with a countdown or by detecting the first pass by the first iPhone by measuring. A feature with which to accurately time a race in a comfortable way, avoiding having to be aware of when we start timing.
An app for a very specific purpose, one that fulfills perfectly
It is clear that Photocells is an app focused on a single purpose: timing. By its very nature it is also clear that we will only use this app in very specific circumstances, but what we can be sure of is that when we do we will get exactly what we are looking for.
It is in the details, in addition to the excellent timing and detection precision, that Photocells stands out compared to other alternatives. From the possibility of realigning the timing gate, to the export of the data in CSV format, to the possibility of pausing the record so as not to consume battery without losing any data, you can see that this is an app developed by someone who knows what to offer to the public of this application.
An application that, with a stroke of the pen, eliminates cables, distance limitations, difficult setup and, above all, it represents a significant saving compared to conventional photocells.
Joining our iPhone to a timing session is always free. To create it, after the first 15 days of free trial, we must opt for a monthly subscription of 8.99 euros, an annual subscription of 69.99 euros or a one-time purchase of 99 euros. All prices are currently at 50% as an introductory offer. We can buy Photocells in the App Store.
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