FAQ – International Sports Timing

I already have a timing system, but I'd like to replace the scoreboard. Are your products compatible?

Yes — IST’s timing systems are compatible with “all major brands of touch-pads and electronic starts,” so you can keep those parts of your system if they’re still working. You would only need to purchase the IST scoreboard, the appropriate software (TIMEWARE or MEETWARE), and possibly a deck cable.

Can I use my current timing console with your scoreboard?

No — IST’s scoreboards require a PC (Windows 2000 or later) running TIMEWARE or MEETWARE to drive them. Your old hardware timing console doesn’t have the intelligence/PC interface to handle the scoreboard.

I'm interested in your DECKLIGHT product, but I already have a timing system. Will it work with my equipment?

It depends. The product (Decklight) requires IST’s Computer Timing Interface (CTI), which is controlled via their TIMEWARE or MEETWARE software. So if you already have a different timing system, you’ll need to replace the timing console, start cable, and backup buttons to use it. Touchpads: IST & Colorado touchpads can be converted; Daktronics must be replaced. For more information call 800-835-2611

I have a fairly new scoreboard, but need a new timing console. Can you help me?

Yes — if your scoreboard is from Colorado, Daktronics (multi-line version) or Kyrotech numeric (one-line or multi-lane) or a Fair-Play board, you can connect an IST timing system via the PC/software and keep the display as is.

We don't have any timing equipment and can't afford to buy it all at once. Can we start with the basics and add more later?

Yes — IST offers a basic “semi-automatic timing” system: includes TIMEWARE software, deck cable, backup buttons for each lane, and the start system. Then as budget permits you can add a one-line scoreboard, touchpads, or upgrade to multi-lane display later. Financing and fundraising is also offered.

Can I trade in my old timing equipment for a new IST Timing System?

IST cannot accept trade-ins of other vendors’ equipment. However, we will market your IST used timing equipment and help you list your old gear on our website.

So, what's all this going to cost?

The cost is a lot less than you’d think. Our numeric scoreboards are cost competitive; alphanumeric boards offer more information for less money than full graphics boards. We also offer BOARDWARE software (projectable scoreboard) at about one-tenth the cost of a full graphics board. Call for more information 800-835-2611 or request a quote.

I'm already using a meet and team management program. Do I have to re-enter all that data in TIMEWARE3?

No — TIMEWARE can interface with most popular meet-management packages. You simply link the computers on a network and you can use the data as is (import event lists, etc).

Why do I have to use two computers if I'm running TIMEWARE and a meet management package? Couldn't I just run them on the same computer?

Technically you could, but with warning that it will slow your meet down significantly because you’d be either timing or managing, but not both at the same time. Using separate computers allows timing on one and meet-management on the other (e.g., marshalling, results input) simultaneously.

If I put TIMEWARE or MEETWARE Software on my computer, can I still use it for other stuff?

Yes — the software takes up very little disk space (about ~20 MB) and you can still use the computer for other purposes. However, if you use the same computer for meet management and timing, you risk performance bottlenecks during the meet.

How can you time with a computer clock? Don’t they vary from machine to machine?

IST doesn’t rely on the computer’s clock. Instead the system uses the Computer Timing Interface (CTI) hardware unit that has an extremely accurate clock circuit. The CTI connects via USB to your computer, handles the incoming deck cable signal and scoreboard interface, and includes a backup button input.

I suppose I need a really fast computer to make this work.

Not at all. The system requirements are modest: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7, a computer with as little as 32 MB of RAM (64 MB recommended), CD or flash drive, a USB or COM port and an external mouse. Laptops are commonly used.

Where is the timing console?

In the IST system there isn’t a traditional timing console. The software (TIMEWARE or MEETWARE) running on your PC handles the timing functions of the old console and more. It also links to the scoreboard, handles message functionality, and can interface to meet-management packages.

Do you have a graphics or matrix scoreboard?

Yes, IST offers video scoreboards, but we also offer BOARDWARE software (projectable scoreboard). A preferred cost-effective alternative to full graphics. BOARDWARE runs on the same computer as the timing software and projects onto a screen or wall. For very bright pools where projection doesn’t work, they still offer full-color video (graphics) scoreboards.

If I buy a one-line board, won’t I lose a lot of information?

You will miss seeing all swimmers’ splits in real-time on the board. A one-line alphanumeric board connected to TIMEWARE (and linked to a meet management system) will display event name/number, heat number, swimmer lane, team code, first initial + last name; during the race a running clock and leader’s splits; then after each finish the board shows lane (“L”), place (“P”) and time. Full splits are still recorded for result reports, just not displayed on the one-line board.

How well will an electronic scoreboard hold up in the humidity?

Very well. IST uses solid-state circuitry, applies a conformal coating to circuit boards to protect against pool-room humidity and chlorine; they use Plexiglas lenses to protect LEDs from flying water-polo balls and kickboards. We've even tested with water-polo balls. The scoreboards are warrantied for five years.

This November 2025 marks 34 years since our very first scoreboard was installed and it’s still going strong!