Timer Systems Overview
Timer Systems allow you to define timing rules for performances at your events. Use them to enforce minimum and maximum performance times, and automatically calculate time penalties when groups go under or over their allotted time.
What Are Timer Systems?
A Timer System is a collection of one or more timers that work together to track time during a performance. For example, a marching band performance might need:
- A Performance Timer to track the actual show time
- A Setup Timer to track equipment setup before the performance
- A Teardown Timer to track equipment removal after the performance
Each timer can have its own minimum and maximum time limits, and you can configure point penalties for violations.
Key Concepts
Group Types
Timer systems are organized by the group types your organization uses (e.g., Color Guard, Percussion, Winds). You can create different timer systems for each group type to accommodate varying performance requirements.
Primary Timer
Every timer system must have exactly one Primary Timer. This is the main performance timer that judges and timekeepers focus on. Other timers in the system can be configured to start automatically when the primary timer starts.
Time Penalties
When a performance runs under the minimum time or over the maximum time, CompetitionSuite can automatically calculate point deductions based on your penalty settings.
Accessing Timer Systems
- Navigate to your organization
- Click Settings in the top-right menu
- Select Timer Systems from the left sidebar
Common Use Cases
- Marching Arts: Track performance, setup, and teardown times separately
- Dance/Cheer: Enforce routine length requirements with automatic penalties
- Solo/Ensemble: Define different time limits for various performance categories
- Critique Sessions: Set maximum speaking times for feedback sessions
Next Steps
- Create a Timer System - Set up your first timer system
- Manage Timers - Add, edit, and configure individual timers