We use the O-Lynx software for all PAPO events. While O-Lynx can be used without radios, we make every effort to have radio links to at least the Start and Finish. At a pre-entry event the Start radio is often the only indication we have that an entrant has actually turned up. Occasionally, a finisher will forget to download. A Finish radio can avoid an unnecessary search.
The Controller must ensure that there are radio paths to the start and finish. This includes selecting repeater sites. Radios are available to check paths
We use intermediate radio controls wherever possible. For longer courses, night events and those with Juniors, intermediate controls can add a safety factor and spectator interest.
Intermediate control sites need to be considered when designing courses, not added later. For an OY, try to include at least one about mid-point on each orange and red course. Possibly need 2 common controls to cover the four courses. As it takes more screen space to display intermediate times, avoid having more than two per course. Two or more TV screens are needed at major events with many classes.
On a narrow map with the event centre near the middle, it should be easy to place a radio control near the half-way point. Not so easy if the event centre is at one end of the map. It may not be worth including intermediate radio controls in a sprint course. Run times are short and runners are unlikely to get lost. An intermediate control may not be possible on an MTBO course as distances are greater. There is little benefit from including an intermediate control in a score course.
The SI operator must be advised of any Intermediate radio control numbers when sending XML coursedata form Condes.
Sportident helpers can often set up the radios for the Start and Finish but should not go onto the course to set up intermediate controls. The Planner/Controller should allow time to place the intermediate radios.
Mark repeater locations on a map so that control collectors can find them.
It is best to mount the SRR box within 4 metres of the radio. The two will often share a stake but the radio can be on a separate stake if the control is in a pit or small gully. At the start location the radio can be mounted on a mast or tripod. A crowd of people can reduce the range of the radio. It is important that the Start team do not move the start punch away from the radio.
Do not remove the antenna from the radio.
Keep the SRR boxes separate when collecting controls. When checking off collected controls, make sure that both the main set and any SRR boxes have been accounted for.
Make sure that all repeaters have been collected.
There is information about placing radio controls on the O-Lynx website. Note that the writer was using SI boxes which connected to the radio via cable. We use Short-range radio instead.
http://o-lynx.com/wp-content/uploads/pdf/Event control placement and range checking.pdf