PZRacing Start Next ST400 - User Manual

Start Next & Start Basic ST400
User Manual - v1.0 – 20/07/2022
Index
1 – Introduction......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 – GPS Technology.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 – Package content.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 – Technical features...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.4 – Important information for correct usage................................................................................................................................................................... 2
2 – Chronometer components.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 – Touch screen.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
3 – Installation.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
3.1 – Positioning................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
3.2 – Power......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
3.3 – Internal memory....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
4 – How to use Start................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
4.1 – Switch on/off............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
4.2 – Registering sessions.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
4.3 – Screens...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
4.4 – Menu and icons......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
4.5 – GPS Signal................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
5 – Configuration, SETUP menu............................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
6 – How to use and choose the finish line/circuit.................................................................................................................................................................... 8
6.1 – Closed circuit............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
6.2 – Point to point............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 8
6.3 – Acceleration............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
6.4 – Dyno Bench (solo Start Next).................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
7 – Storage of a new finish line/circuit..................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
8 – Session analysis.................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
8.1 – Viewing sessions and lap times................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
8.2 – Deleting a session...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
9 – Viewing values in real time................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
10 – PC connection (only Start Next)....................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
10.1 – USB data download.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
10.2 – Wi-Fi........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 9
11 – Gear indication (only Start Next with box expander)...................................................................................................................................................... 10
11.1 - Setting the gear using RPM/SPEED ratio (only Start Next).................................................................................................................................... 10
11.2 - Setting the gear using the analogue input (only Start Next)................................................................................................................................... 10
12 – Linear potentiometer calibration (only Start Next)........................................................................................................................................................ 10
13 – Accelerometer (only Start Next)...................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
14 – Self-diagnosis................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
15 – Firmware installed and date of first use........................................................................................................................................................................... 11
16 – Replace the startup image................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
1 – Introduction
Thank you for choosing a PZRacing product. Start is a state-of-the-art GPS chronometer. There are many advantages to this technology: you will no
longer need to place a bulky infra-red transmitter at the side of the track, you can even view split times on the display and thanks to specially designed
software, you can view all the trajectories covered on a given track. Start is the only chronometer in the world to use a 50Hz receiver and a touch screen
pad with "Gloves Sensitive" technology which makes it possible to use the device even when wearing gloves.
Start Next and Start Basic are two chronometers of the same product line and they function in the same way. However, Start Basic
does not allow data acquisition and box expansion connection.
Please note: PZRacing products are water resistant but not waterproof; do not wash the product with pressurised water and keep
the lateral tab closed at all times; failure to do so could cause permanent damage to the product.
1.1 – GPS Technology
The Global Positioning System (also known as GPS) is a satellite positioning and navigation system which, thanks to a network of artificial satellites in
orbit, sends information about geographic coordinates and the time to a GPS receiver, in any weather conditions and on any place on Earth. Its
functioning principle is based on a spherical positioning method which measures the time taken by a radio signal to cover the distance from a satellite to
a receiver. One of the main features of GPS receivers is the update frequency expressed in Hertz (Hz); this measurement unit indicates how many times
per second the satellite receiver is capable of updating its position. Start has a state-of-the-art GPS receiver with an updating frequency of 50Hz (50
times per second), which translates into higher precision in calculating the time and visualising trajectories.
1.2 – Package content
– Start Next / Start Basic
– USB cable type C
– Fixing Velcro strap
– No.4 screws for plastic adaptor
– Plastic adaptor for bolt
– M6x3cm bolt for fixing onto the bracket
– Self-locking M6 nut
– Metal washers
– No.1 anti-vibration PVC plane washers
– No.1 anti-vibration PVC conical washers
PZRacing Via de Gasperi 5 – 61032 Fano (PU) Italy - Tel: +39 0721 820434 – Email: tech@pzracing.it

Summary

Introduction

GPS Technology

Explanation of the Global Positioning System and its role in the device's functionality.

Package Content

Lists all items included in the product box for setup and operation.

Technical Features

Key specifications and capabilities of the Start Next and Start Basic chronometers.

Important Information for Correct Usage

Crucial guidelines for safe and effective operation of the device.

Chronometer Components

Touch Screen

Details the touch screen interface and its 'Gloves Sensitive' technology.

Installation

Positioning

Guidance on optimal placement of the chronometer for best GPS signal reception.

Power

Information on charging the device's internal battery using USB or optional cables.

How to Use Start

Switch On;Off

Instructions for turning the device on and off manually and its automatic shutdown.

Registering Sessions

Conditions required for the device to automatically start recording a new session.

Screens

Description of the various data screens displayed during operation and lap timing.

Menu and Icons

GPS Signal

Configuration, SETUP Menu

Language

Options for selecting the display language for the device.

Recording

Settings for automatic or manual recording of sessions.

Time Format

Configuration for 12-hour or 24-hour time display.

Data Format

Setting the preferred format for displaying dates (day/month/year or month/day/year).

Time Zone

Adjustment for the time difference from Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Freeze Time

Sets how long lap times are displayed after crossing the finish line.

Crono Mode

Options for visualizing lap times: rolling, predicted delta, or predicted total.

Best;Total

Choice between displaying best lap or total session time.

Speed Unit

Selection between kilometers per hour (Km/h) and miles per hour (mph).

Temperature (solo Start Next)

Setting temperature units (°C or °F) for the Start Next device.

Pulse RPM (solo Start Next)

Configures RPM reading parameters for the Start Next with Box Expander.

Led (solo Start Next)

Customization of LED behavior for best lap, RPM, or temperature alerts.

How to Use and Choose the Finish Line;Circuit

Closed Circuit

Standard lap timing for circuits where start and finish lines coincide.

Point to Point

Mode for events like rallies or uphill races where start and finish differ.

Acceleration

Mode for acceleration tests, measuring distance or speed to a finish line.

Dyno Bench (solo Start Next)

Usage mode for dyno bench testing without GPS signal.

Storage of a New Finish Line;Circuit

Session Analysis

Viewing Sessions and Lap Times

Accessing and reviewing stored sessions and individual lap times.

Deleting a Session

Procedure for removing recorded sessions from the device's memory.

Viewing Values in Real Time

PC Connection (Only Start Next)

USB Data Download

Transferring recorded session data to a PC via USB cable.

Wi-Fi

Wireless data download and settings management using Wi-Fi.

Gear Indication (Only Start Next with Box Expander)

Setting the Gear using RPM;SPEED ratio (only Start Next)

Calibrating gear indication using engine RPM and vehicle speed data.

Setting the Gear using the Analogue Input (only Start Next)

Calibrating gear indication via analogue input from a gear potentiometer.

Linear Potentiometer Calibration (only Start Next)

Accelerometer (only Start Next)

Self-diagnosis

Firmware Installed and Date of First Use

Replace the Startup Image

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The PZRacing Start Next & Start Basic ST400 is a state-of-the-art GPS chronometer designed for use in open spaces, offering advanced features for lap timing and data acquisition. This device eliminates the need for bulky infra-red transmitters, providing a more convenient and precise experience.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Start Next & Start Basic ST400 is to act as a GPS chronometer, accurately measuring lap times and providing various data visualizations. It leverages Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track geographic coordinates and time, allowing for precise calculations of lap times and trajectory visualization. The device is equipped with a 50Hz GPS receiver, which updates its position 50 times per second, ensuring high precision.

The chronometer supports different modes of use:

• Closed Circuit: Standard mode for racetracks and kartdromes, where start and finish lines coincide. It records lap times each time the finish line is crossed.
• Point to Point: For rallies or up-hill races where start and finish lines do not coincide. It uses an internal accelerometer to retrieve the starting point and GPS coordinates for the finish line.
• Acceleration: For acceleration races, where the finish line corresponds to reaching a certain distance or speed (e.g., 0-100 km/h, 1/4 mile). The device retrieves the starting point via an internal accelerometer.
• Dyno Bench (Start Next only): Allows recording data without a GPS signal, ideal for performance testing on a dyno bench.

The device also offers session analysis, allowing users to view recorded sessions and lap times, and delete unwanted sessions. Real-time values can be viewed, including GPS measurements and, for Start Next, analogue and digital measurements from the Box Expander.

Important Technical Specifications:

• GPS Receiver: Integrated 50Hz GPS receiver, providing 1/100s precision.
• Display: Touch screen with "Gloves Sensitive" technology, enabling operation even with gloves.
• Memory: Internal memory stores sessions, data, system configurations, and track finish line coordinates. It includes folders for SYSTEM, TRACKS, SESSIONS, MANUALS, and IMAGE files.
• Battery: Fitted with a 2000mA lithium battery.
• Connectivity (Start Next only):
  • USB: USB Type-C for data download to a PC.
  • Wi-Fi: Integrated Wi-Fi module for data download and settings related to storage. It activates on the main screen and during charging, deactivating when the motorcycle exceeds 30Km/h.
  • Analogue/Digital Channels: Retrieval of up to 9 analogue channels and 3 digital channels with 50Hz sampling (Start Next only).
• Sensors (Start Next only):
  • Internal Triaxial Accelerometer: Used for detecting the start and storing values in the recorded file.
  • Gear Indicator: Optional, can be inserted.
  • Linear Potentiometer Calibration: Direct calibration from the instrument.
• Physical Characteristics:
  • Size: 85.6x70.5x27.6mm.
  • Container: Anti-impact.
  • Resistance: Water resistant (but not waterproof).
• Software: Compatible with RacePro software for data analysis, circuit setup, and configuration.
• Data Storage: Stores values per lap and absolute best, trajectories (Start Next only), "Best Lap & Split Time," Maximum RPM, and Temperature warning LED.
• Meters: Includes 2 engine meters and 2 odometers.
• Circuit Recognition: Automatic circuit recognition and a global circuits database.
• Power Management: Automatic shut down after 20 minutes of inactivity.
• Firmware: Displays firmware version and date of first use.
• Startup Image: Customizable bitmap image (128x64px, monochrome).

Usage Features:

• User Interface: Intuitive touch screen with icons for easy navigation.
• Switch On/Off: Keep the ON/OFF button pressed.
• Session Registration: Automatically registers a new session when GPS signal is acquired and the chronometer is activated (triggered by internal accelerometer detecting vehicle departure).
• Display Screens: Multiple visualization screens (5 for Start Next) showing lap time, best lap, speed, RPMs (Start Next only), temperature (Start Next only), analogue inputs (Start Next only), and inserted gear (Start Next only).
• Menu Navigation: Access the menu by touching any part of the display. Icons are categorized for LAPS, DATA, TRACK, SETUP, GEAR (Start Next only), SUSPENSIONS (Start Next only), and INFO.
• Configuration (SETUP Menu):
  • Language: English (default), Italian, German, French.
  • Recording Mode: "ALWAYS" (default, always activated) or "MANUAL" (manual save prompt).
  • Time Format: 12h or 24h.
  • Data Format: Day/month/year or month/day/year.
  • Time Zone: Set difference from Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
  • Freeze Time: Sets visualization duration of lap time upon reaching the finish line (10-60 seconds, 30 seconds default).
  • Crono Mode: "ROLLING" (classic time rolling), "PRED. DELTA" (predicted difference from best lap), "PRED.TOTAL" (predicted total time).
  • Best/Total: Display best lap or total session time.
  • Speed Unit: Km/h (metric, default) or mph (imperial).
  • Temperature (Start Next only): °C (default) or °F.
  • Pulse RPM (Start Next only): Configurable parameters for RPM reading (1, 2, 4, or 1/2 pulses per drive shaft rotation).
  • LED (Start Next only): Configurable LED use for best lap, maximum RPM exceeded, or temperature alarm.
• GPS Signal Acquisition: Requires waiting for satellite reception; may take 4-5 minutes after long inactivity, but only a few seconds during regular track use. Signal status indicated by GPS icon.
• New Circuit Storage: Create new circuits by saving split time and finish line coordinates on the track.
• Sensor Calibration (Start Next only): Calibrate gear using RPM/SPEED ratio or analogue input, and linear potentiometers.
• Self-diagnosis: Verifies product features and internal components, signaling OK or ERROR.

Maintenance Features:

• Charging: Charge the lithium battery via USB cable connected to a power source or PC. Optional SS12V100 or SS12CAR cables for direct vehicle charging (Start Next only).
• Data Management: Download session files (in *.SES format) from the SESSION folder to a PC via USB (Start Next only) or Wi-Fi (Start Next only). Do not rename session files.
• Memory Clearing: Delete files within the SESSION folder to clear memory content.
• Software Updates: Firmware updates are managed through the RacePro software.
• Care: The product is water resistant but not waterproof. Do not wash with pressurized water and keep the lateral tab closed at all times to prevent damage.
• Installation: Proper installation is crucial. Avoid placing metal, carbon, or electronic items near the GPS receiver (upper side of the product) to prevent signal degradation. Use anti-vibration washers during installation to prevent damage from vehicle vibrations, as such damage is not covered by warranty.
• Configuration File: The CONFIG.CFG file can be modified using RacePro software to change analogue input names and other settings.

PZRacing Start Next ST400 Specifications

General

Brand	PZRacing
Model	Start Next ST400
Category	GPS
Language	English