A swim timing system is an electronic system that automatically records race times using touchpads, starting systems, and timing software. These systems eliminate human error and ensure accurate, competition-ready results for swim meets.

IST systems are used by:

• High schools and colleges
• Swim clubs and competitive teams
• Summer League swim teams
• YMCA and community pools
• Aquatic centers and recreation facilities

Automated swim timing systems provide:

• Precise race timing (touchpad accuracy)
• Faster meet results and reporting
• Integration with meet and team management software
• Improved experience for athletes, coaches, and spectators

IST swim timing systems are trusted by schools, clubs, and aquatic facilities because they combine accuracy, reliability, and affordability. Our systems are designed to deliver precise race timing with easy setup and user-friendly operation, helping you run meets efficiently without technical complexity.

With over 30 years of experience, IST offers customizable solutions that integrate with existing equipment, durable hardware built to last, and responsive customer support when it matters most. Whether you're upgrading or building a new system, IST provides dependable performance and long-term value.

The best swim timing system for schools or clubs depends on your facility size, budget, and level of competition. Most programs benefit from an automated timing system that includes touchpads, a starting system, and meet management software.

Teams with smaller budgets, or those just starting out, can benefit from a semi-automatic timing system that uses 2 buttons per lane instead of a touchpad. That system will grow with them.

IST systems are designed specifically for high schools, clubs, and aquatic facilities, offering reliable performance, easy setup, and compatibility with existing equipment—making them a practical choice for both new installations and upgrades.

Automatic swim timing systems are highly accurate and are considered the standard for competitive swimming. Touchpad-based systems record times the moment a swimmer touches the wall, eliminating human reaction error common with manual timing.

These systems can measure times to hundredths of a second, ensuring fair and precise results for meets at all levels, from local competitions to championship events.

Semi-automatic timing systems, using 2 buttons per lane instead of a touchpad, are less accurate, but still more accurate that timing using stopwatches only.

A complete swim timing system typically includes several key components that work together:

• Starting system – signals the beginning of each race
• Touchpads – record the finish time for each swimmer
• Timing Interface or Console – collects and processes timing data
• Software – manages races, results, and reporting
• Scoreboard (optional) – displays times and results in real time

IST offers fully integrated systems or individual components depending on your facility’s needs.

Yes, many swim timing systems can be upgraded without replacing the entire setup. IST systems are designed to integrate with a wide range of existing timing equipment, including scoreboards, cables, buttons, touchpads, starters and software.

This allows facilities to improve performance and add new features over time while maintaining their current investment, making upgrades more cost-effective and scalable.

You can reach our customer support team by email at support@istime.com or by phone at (800) 835-2611. We're available in the office Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM EST.

For emergency after-hours support, call (800) 835-2611 and leave a message for option 2, Technical Support. Someone will call you back within 20 minutes.

For online purchasing we accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay for your convenience.

We can also accept check and purchase order payments. Contact sales@istime.com or (800) 835-2611 to get a quote.

IST Hardware products are warrantied for 5 years covering parts and labor. Batteries, cables and touchpads are warrantied for 2 years covering parts and labor.