Create a Timer System
This guide walks you through creating a new timer system for your organization.
Before You Begin
Make sure you have:
- Administrator access to your organization
- At least one group type configured (timer systems are organized by group type)
Steps to Create a Timer System
Step 1: Navigate to Timer Systems
- Go to your organization's page
- Click Settings in the top-right corner
- Select Timer Systems from the left sidebar
Step 2: Choose a Group Type
The Timer Systems page displays your group types as panels. Each group type (e.g., Color Guard, Percussion, Winds) can have its own timer systems.
Find the group type you want to create a timer system for.
Step 3: Create the Timer System
- Click the Create a Timer System button in the group type panel
- Enter a Name for your timer system (e.g., "Standard Performance", "Extended Show", "Finals Format")
- The timer system is created, but you'll need to add at least one timer before saving
Step 4: Add Timers
A timer system requires at least one timer, and one timer must be designated as the Primary Timer.
- Click Add a Timer to create your first timer
- Configure the timer settings (see Manage Timers for details)
- Add additional timers as needed
Step 5: Save Your Timer System
- Review your timer configuration
- Click Save to create the timer system
Example: Basic Performance Timer System
Here's a common setup for marching band competitions:
| Timer | Primary | Min Time | Max Time | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | Yes | 5:00 | 11:00 | 0.1 pts per 1 second |
| Setup | No | 0:00 | 4:00 | 0.5 pts per 10 seconds |
| Teardown | No | 0:00 | 4:00 | 0.5 pts per 10 seconds |
Tips
- Name clearly: Use descriptive names like "Standard Show Format" or "Finals Extended Time" so it's easy to identify timer systems when setting up events
- Start simple: Begin with just a primary performance timer; you can add setup/teardown timers later
- Test first: Create timer systems before your first event to ensure they work as expected
What's Next?
- Manage Timers - Learn how to configure individual timer settings
- Return to Timer Systems Overview