Display live results and personal family messages for each runner in real-time using GOcontroll free programmable controllers.

When every second counts, timing technology makes the difference. With the free programmable controllers, organizers can now display live results and supportive messages from loved ones. These information on multiple screens, accurately and in real-time.

In running events, accurate split and finish times are vital, not only for race officials but also for spectators and athletes. GOcontroll controllers could process inputs from timing gates or RFID systems and instantly trigger outputs to large LED or LCD screens. Thanks to built-in support for CAN, Ethernet, and wireless modules, GOcontroll hardware could integrate seamlessly with timing systems and display interfaces.

Through Node-RED, data from sensors is transformed into readable information and streamed live. Screens along the course can show each athlete’s time as they pass checkpoints, enhancing the experience for fans and adding professional-grade feedback for runners.

Imagine a runner passing the halfway point and seeing this on a screen:

“Keep going, Daddy! We love you – Isa & Noah 💖”

This level of personal motivation is now possible with GOcontroll. Each athlete can be associated with custom messages from friends or family. These messages, submitted in advance via an app or online portal, are stored and linked to the runner’s bib or RFID tag.

When the runner triggers a checkpoint, the GOcontroll controller reads the identifier and displays the preloaded message from their loved one on a nearby screen. This not only lifts morale but creates a deeply personal and memorable experience.

The system is free programmable and uses Simulink or Node-RED to manage the logic and timing, offering complete control over which message is displayed and when. Messages could be updated before the event and even customized based on split times or progress.

To make the experience even more interactive, event organizers can provide a supporter app built around the data collected and compiled by the controller. Using this app, family and friends can:

• Track live race progress of individual runners
• Submit or update motivational messages
• Receive alerts when their runner passes specific checkpoints
• Watch live split times and rankings
• Share photos and send encouragement during the race

GOcontroll’s free programmable controllers push timing data to the cloud, where the app securely fetches real-time updates. Supporters can personalize their dashboard to follow multiple runners and engage more closely with the event.

This setup enhances not only the experience for runners but also turns passive spectators into active participants, whether they are on-site or cheering from across the globe.

The backbone of the system includes for example:

• GOcontroll Moduline IV or Moduline Display
• Input modules for timing signal processing
• Output interfaces like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or wireless LTE/4G
• Cloud integration for backend data transfer

A typical setup may involve multiple controllers placed along the track, networked via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, each triggering outputs based on local inputs. Batch software updates and diagnostics can be done remotely using GOcontroll’s backend tools.

Below is a simplified system diagram:

GOcontroll’s controllers offer a cloud-based management interface that supports:

• Secure VPN login
• Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) updates
• Performance monitoring (CPU, memory, connection status)
• Event logging and diagnostics

This means one technician at HQ can monitor and update all timing stations during a marathon or track event, eliminating the need for multiple staff on-site.

With the Simulink integration and Node-RED pre-installed environments, developing your custom solution is faster than ever. You can:

• Define triggers based on RFID or GPS
• Set individual messages per athlete from submitted family content
• Integrate with screens at different course locations
• Connect cloud APIs for mobile app use and live feeds

With GOcontroll’s free programmable hardware, you only need the modules relevant for your application, minimizing cost and complexity.

Whether you’re timing a local 5K or organizing a city-wide marathon, the controllers could offers a powerful platform for live results, heartfelt messages from family, and dynamic supporter engagement through a custom app. It’s technology with a human touch—rugged, flexible, and ready for the field.

Explore the Moduline systems and development kits.