SplitSecond - User contributions [en]

National FIS Software : Timing

2009-11-03T14:45:23Z

Kelly: /* Timing */

==Timing==

The software can manage the timing of the race by receiving data from a timer attached to the computer. This is usually done via serial connections with timing devices, but may also be done for some timers via a LAN or USB connection.

Results can be sent to a scoreboard via another serial port.

There are three modes of operation related to timing:

===Practice Mode===

If a timer has not been selected in the [[National FIS Software : Timing Setup|setup & test]] screen, actual time data cannot be processed by the software and the timing screens will open in practice mode. Practice mode gives options for manual starts and finishes, and gives a great opportunity to practice the timing features of the software. As not to be confused with real times, all practice times are to a whole second and an
[[National_FIS_Software_:_Competitors_Insert_Edit#Audit|audit]] entry is created.

===Timing Mode===

A [[Keys & Licenses|key and license]] is needed to use the timing features, but everything can be connected and tested without a key. The only restriction without a key, is you'll only be allowed to practice in the timing screen for two minutes. Before committing, you can connect timing equipment, make sure it communicates with the software, and try out some of the timing management features of the software. With a key and valid license, there are no restrictions.

===Demo Mode===

If a [[Keys & Licenses|key and license]] is not connected to the computer when the software starts, everything can still be connected and tested. If there isn't a timer set in the [[National FIS Software : Timing Setup|setup & test]] screen, then the timing screens will operate in practice mode (above). If a timer is set, then timing screens will be in demo mode. Demo mode is fully functional and will accept times from the timer, but will close after two minutes. It's done this way so the process of interfacing to a timer can be fully tested, even without a key.

===More...===

*[[National FIS Software : Timing Setup|Setup & Test]]

*[[Timers|Timers]]

*[[National FIS Software : Managing The Race|Managing The Race]]

*[[National FIS Software : Intervals & Speed Traps|Intervals & Speed Traps]]

National FIS Software : Edit Options

2009-11-03T14:40:29Z

Kelly:

==Edit|Options==

This screen is accessed via the menu at Edit|Options.

===Settings===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions1.jpg‎|center]]

=====Automatically Capitalize=====

This is checked by default.

There are a number of fields in the header and while using the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit Competitor]] screen that would typically be all in capitals. Having this option checked, will capitalize those fields automatically. If you find a field is capitalized when you don't want it to be, uncheck this field.

=====Automatically Sort=====

This is checked by default.

There are many situations, such as creating reports, where the competitors should be in a specific order. When this option is checked, it will automatically sort the competitors, as needed. When this is not checked, it will always prompt where it would otherwise sort; to see if you want to sort.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::* Unchecking this is considered an advanced option. Be sure you know what you're doing when you don't agree to sort. It may result in strange outcomes!
</div>

=====Save Time=====

The software automatically saves your data every few minutes. The frequency may be adjusted via this option.

=====Auto Print Log=====

When managing the timing of a race using the software, a log is created of everything that happens. Using this setting, you can have the log printed whenever a new page of the log is completed. If you have a printer connected, this is recommended as a backup.

===Default Folder===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions2.jpg‎|center]]

As explained in other pages, a race or event is stored as a file. A file may be stored wherever you want, but by default it will be saved in the location specified via this option.

===Proxy===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions3.jpg‎|center]]

Some networks at resorts require web interfaces be managed through a proxy. This page is used to set the values for the proxy. Contact your network administrator for the correct values to use.

National FIS Software : Edit Options

2009-11-03T14:37:46Z

Kelly:

==Edit|Options==

This screen is accessed via the menu at Edit|Options.

===Settings===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions1.jpg‎|center]]

=====Automatically Capitalize=====

This is checked by default.

There are a number of fields in the header and while using the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit Competitor]] screen that would typically be all in capitals. Having this option checked, will capitalize those fields automatically. If you find a field is capitalized when you don't want it to be, uncheck this field.

=====Automatically Sort=====

This is checked by default.

There are many situations, such as creating reports, where the competitors should be in a specific order. When this option is checked, it will automatically sort the competitors as needed. When this is not checked, it will always prompt where it would otherwise sort; to see if you want to sort.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::* Un-checking this is considered an advanced option. Be sure you know what you're doing when you don't agree to sort. If may result in strange outcomes!
</div>

=====Save Time=====

The software automatically saves your data ever few minutes. The frequency may be adjusted via this option.

=====Auto Print Log=====

When managing the timing of a race using the software a log is created of everything that happens. Using this setting you can have the log printed whenever a new page of the log is completed. If you have a printer connected this is recommended as a backup.

===Default Folder===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions2.jpg‎|center]]

As explained in other pages a race or event is stored as a file. A file may be stored wherever you want, but by default it will be saved in the location specified via this option.

===Proxy===

[[image:NatFIS_EditOptions3.jpg‎|center]]

Some networks at resorts require web interfaces be managed through a proxy. This page is used to set the values for the proxy. Contact your network administrator for the correct values to use.

National FIS Software : Competitors SkiData Files

2009-11-03T14:33:05Z

Kelly:

==Send SkiData Files==

This is an option on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] and also available via the menu option "Activities|Send SkiData Files".

It's used to send results to the USSA and/or the FIS in the format they expect. The same file is sent to both organizations; having tags in the file specifically for each. This option should be taken only when everything with the event is complete and correct.

It generates the XML "SkiData" file to be sent and displays it on the screen giving options on how to proceed:

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData1.jpg‎|center]]

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData2.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors SkiData Files

2009-11-03T14:32:17Z

Kelly:

==Send SkiData Files==

This is an option on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] and also available via the menu option "Activities|Send Skidata Files".

It's used to send results to the USSA and/or the FIS in the format they expect. The same file is sent to both organizations; having tags in the file specifically for each. This option should be taken only when everything with the event is complete and correct.

It generates the XML "SkiData" file to be sent and displays it on the screen giving options on how to proceed:

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData1.jpg‎|center]]

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData2.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors SkiData Files

2009-11-03T14:31:20Z

Kelly:

==Send SkiData Files==

This is an option on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|competitors tab]] and also available via the menu option "Activities|Send Skidata Files".

It's used to send results to the USSA and/or the FIS in the format they expect. The same file is sent to both organizations; having tags in the file specifically for each. This option should be taken only when everything with the event is complete and correct.

It generates the XML "SkiData" file to be sent and displays it on the screen giving options on how to proceed:

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData1.jpg‎|center]]

[[image:NatFIS_SkiData2.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Pursuit

2009-11-03T14:28:57Z

Kelly: /* 2 Day Pursuit */

==2 Day Pursuit==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

Two-day pursuit is a unique event in the software, because there's a specific option that must be taken at a specific time.

A two-day pursuit has one event, which runs to completion; and then another event, based on the results of the first event. This may sound like any two-run race, like an alpine slalom, except that the start order and start time for the second event is created from the result from the first event.

Once the first event is complete and everything is correct, take the option from the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu: "Pursuit - Set 2nd Run Start Times":

[[image:NatFIS_Pursuit.jpg‎|center]]

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::* A pursuit that's back to back, where the first event isn't run to completion, does not use this logic. It should be treated as a single event, not a two-day pursuit.
</div>

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Times

2009-11-03T14:11:15Z

Kelly:

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] when cross country is selected as the discipline on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]]:

(For an explanation on published vs actual start time, [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|click here]])

==Set Published Start Times==

As explained on the page, this is used to assign published start times to individuals or to small groups. Published start times are assigned to competitors based on the current order on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors screen]]. This will apply to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes1.jpg‎|center]]

Once the settings have been made and "OK" has been clicked, a confirmation screen will be displayed before times are assigned:

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes2.jpg‎|center]]

==Copy Published to Actual Start Time==

After confirming that you really want to do this, it copies the value of the published start to the actual start for all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_CopyPublished.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Times

2009-11-03T14:10:57Z

Kelly:

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] when cross country is selected as the discipline on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]]:

(For an explanation on published vs actual start time [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|click here]])

==Set Published Start Times==

As explained on the page, this is used to assign published start times to individuals or to small groups. Published start times are assigned to competitors based on the current order on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors screen]]. This will apply to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes1.jpg‎|center]]

Once the settings have been made and "OK" has been clicked, a confirmation screen will be displayed before times are assigned:

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes2.jpg‎|center]]

==Copy Published to Actual Start Time==

After confirming that you really want to do this, it copies the value of the published start to the actual start for all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_CopyPublished.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Times

2009-11-03T14:10:35Z

Kelly:

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] when cross country is selected as the discipline on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]]:

(For an explanation on published vs actual start time [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times,|click here]])

==Set Published Start Times==

As explained on the page, this is used to assign published start times to individuals or to small groups. Published start times are assigned to competitors based on the current order on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors screen]]. This will apply to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes1.jpg‎|center]]

Once the settings have been made and "OK" has been clicked, a confirmation screen will be displayed before times are assigned:

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes2.jpg‎|center]]

==Copy Published to Actual Start Time==

After confirming that you really want to do this, it copies the value of the published start to the actual start for all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_CopyPublished.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Times

2009-11-03T14:10:13Z

Kelly:

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors tab]] when cross country is selected as the discipline on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]]:

(For an explanation on published vs actual start time [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|,click here]])

==Set Published Start Times==

As explained on the page, this is used to assign published start times to individuals or to small groups. Published start times are assigned to competitors based on the current order on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|Competitors screen]]. This will apply to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes1.jpg‎|center]]

Once the settings have been made and "OK" has been clicked, a confirmation screen will be displayed before times are assigned:

[[image:NatFIS_StartTimes2.jpg‎|center]]

==Copy Published to Actual Start Time==

After confirming that you really want to do this, it copies the value of the published start to the actual start for all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_CopyPublished.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other EET

2009-11-03T14:09:11Z

Kelly: /* EET (Electronic Equivalent Time) */

==EET (Electronic Equivalent Time)==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

If an electronic time is missed for one or more competitors, this tool helps calculate an equivalent electronic time (EET) from backup or hand times. For this explanation, only hand times will be referred to, but could apply to backup electronic times just the same.

Basically, an EET is calculated by working out an average difference between other electronic times that have been recorded and the hand times, and applying that difference to the hand time(s) for the missing competitor(s).

The software can be used to calculate and store up to ten EET calculations; each of which can calculate up to three equivalent times. To calculate an EET for more than one person at a time, the missed competitors should have run in order, because the calculation is based on the five competitors before and after the missing ones.

The backup electronic times and hand times are stored with the competitor. In addition to entering them via this process, they may be entered in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Edit|TOD Edit]] screen and may also be [[National FIS Software : Import|imported]].

The EET screen leads you through the process. It's important to fill out the top section first and as more fields are filled in, the remaining fields will be available to fill in. This is because the screen behaves differently, depending on the choices made at the top.

Once the top section is filled in, the bib number(s) for the missing competitor(s) should be filled in. At any point after the missing bibs have been filled in, the screen will be saved, if exited.

This is how the screen first appears:

[[image:NatFISEET1.jpg‎|center]]

Below is an example of the form half-filled in. It's calculating for 2nd run result for two missed results (bibs 11 & 26). The bibs for the five competitors with times who ran before and the five after are filled in (left); then the data for missing these competitors may be filled in. In this example, hand times are being entered with time of day (TOD) information.

As the data is entered, you'll see the EET calculation performing the steps to calculate an average difference to apply to the missed competitors.

[[image:NatFISEET2.jpg‎|center]]

Once the form is completely filled in, the EETs will be displayed in the dark section (middle right). If everything is correct, click on the "Apply EETs to Competitors" button to actually use the calculated EETs.

A report may be generated at any time showing the data on the screen.

For help with entering times quickly, look at the information via the "How to Enter Times Quickly" button.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''HINT:''' If doing an EET using system B times, the [[National FIS Software : Export|Export]] and [[National FIS Software : Import|Import]] options can be used to quickly get the system B data onto the primary computer. The process would be to export the time of day data from system B, and then import that as system B time of day on the primary computer.
</div>

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Reload Points

2009-10-30T21:31:42Z

Kelly: /* Reload Points from Points Lists */

==Reload Points from Points Lists==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

After a confirmation, it will go through the current [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|points lists]] for all the competitors or current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|blocks of competitors]] and pull their points data (again).

This option is useful when entering competitors, before the points list for the race is available, or when using competitors from a previous race when the previous race used a different points list. Once the correct lists are available and selected on the [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors/lists]] tab, take this option.

It creates a list of any competitors that couldn't be found so they can be checked:

[[image:NatFISReloadPoints.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Clear Times

2009-10-30T21:30:29Z

Kelly: /* Clear Times */

==Clear Times==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

After a confirmation, it clears the times for all the competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

This is useful when making a copy of a race, so that the same competitors can be "re-used". Just be very sure you've saved the race under a new name!

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:''' Once times are cleared, they cannot be restored without entering them again manually !
</div>

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Snow Seed

2009-10-30T21:29:32Z

Kelly: /* Snow Seed */

==Snow Seed==

This is one of the options in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

A snow seed is used to send some of the later racers before the top seed. This is often set for speed events where snow conditions are questionable and may or may not be used on race day.

This option will randomly select the number of people needed from the last 20% of the race.

These people are then marked by an asterisk (*) next to their start number on the Competitors screen, on the start list, and with a check mark at the bottom of the Edit Competitor screen.

The usual order for running these competitors is in reverse order as listed on the start list. (This is the order they will be expected when managing the timing with the software after the first of them is entered.)

[[image:NatFISSnowSeed.jpg‎|center]]

* If the snow seed competitors need to be assigned again, it will clear the previously set competitors first.

* If the snow seed needs to be set manually, do this by checking the snow seed box for each of the competitors involved.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''HINT:'''<br>
:: There isn’t a way to quickly clear the snow seed settings, except to [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit]] each competitor. To make this easier, take this option and have it set only one person in the snow seed, so you’ll only have one competitor to edit and clear the check box.
</div>

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Enter Time Of Day

2009-10-30T21:27:59Z

Kelly: /* Enter Time Of Day */

==Enter Time Of Day==

This is one of the options in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu. It has a sub-menu to select which run, and start or finish:

[[image:NatFISTODEntry.jpg‎|center]]

It will then place a screen in the top right corner, which gives a quick method for entering "Time of Day" (TOD) information. TOD data is typically obtained directly off the printout from a timer. The full precision that's printed on the timer should be used, regardless of the precision of the resulting time.

[[image:NatFISTODEntry2.jpg‎|center]]

The same time entry rules apply as the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Enter Elapsed Times|Enter Times (elapsed)]] option, but since times will often have more precision, some punctuation will probably be needed. For example: entering 123456.789 is equivalent to entering 12:34:56.789.

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Enter Elapsed Times

2009-10-30T21:26:33Z

Kelly: /* Jump to Competitor */

==Enter Times (elapsed)==

This is one of the options in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

If the event has more than one run (such as Slalom), it will first ask which run times are being assigned for:

[[image:NatFISAssignElapsed1.jpg‎|center]]

It will then place a screen in the top right corner, which gives a quick method for entering elapsed times. Simply key in the bib followed by [Tab] or [Enter] and then the time.

As shown in the example below, times may be entered without punctuation, as long they're entered to the 1/100th of a second. Note that the times aren't in seconds, but with punctuation removed.
If entering times to a different precision than 1/100th of a second, use full or partial punctuation. For example 1:23.4 or 123.4.

To enter a DNF, you can enter as "DNF" or simply as "F". The same applies to DSQ, it can be entered quite simply with a "Q". When a DSQ is entered, an additional entry field will appear for the gate or rule number.

[[image:NatFISAssignElapsed2.jpg‎|center]]

====Keep list sorted====

This option, which is checked by default, sorts the competitors list as results are entered.

====Jump to Competitor====

This option, which is also checked by default, tells the software to jump in the competitors list as each bib is entered. This may be confusing at times, as the screen will jump in and out of the list of competitors who already have results as data is entered.

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Number Options

2009-10-30T17:44:54Z

Kelly: /* Reassign from 1... */

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

==Start Numbers==

Start numbers should be assigned one way or another before the race begins. The start number for a competitor is used to maintain the original running order for the race. This is used by the software to break ties correctly and is used by USSA/ACA, etc. and FIS, so they know the original running order too.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::Never reassign or change start numbers after the race has started. Several customers have changed the start number to match the running order for the 2nd run. This causes ties to be handled incorrectly. A strong warning comes up if you attempt to change start numbers once any competitor has a result.
</div>

The following three options are available via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu:

==Reassign from 1...==

This option may be used to assign start numbers to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]]. It's based on the current order of competitors in the "Competitors" tab.

If it's used to assign start numbers to "all" competitors, it simply confirms you want to do it before assigning start numbers from one.

When assigning start numbers to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]], it gives an option for a starting number. Numbers will be allocated from that point up, but will not include any start numbers that any competitors already have outside the block.

[[image:NatFISReassignStartNumbers1.jpg‎|center]]

==Set Manually==

This option is designed to be used during a seed meeting when a double draw takes place. It's based on bib numbers, which may need to be temporarily assigned for drawing purposes. It's a process that matches the draw process where a bib is selected, and then their start number is selected. You may move from field to field via the [Tab] key or by the [Enter] key:

[[image:NatFISReassignStartNumbers2.jpg‎|center]]

==Clear==

After verifying this is what you really want to do, it will permanently clear the start number assignments for all competitors or the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]].

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Number Options

2009-10-30T17:44:04Z

Kelly: /* Start Numbers */

These are tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu.

==Start Numbers==

Start numbers should be assigned one way or another before the race begins. The start number for a competitor is used to maintain the original running order for the race. This is used by the software to break ties correctly and is used by USSA/ACA, etc. and FIS, so they know the original running order too.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::Never reassign or change start numbers after the race has started. Several customers have changed the start number to match the running order for the 2nd run. This causes ties to be handled incorrectly. A strong warning comes up if you attempt to change start numbers once any competitor has a result.
</div>

The following three options are available via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu:

==Reassign from 1...==

This option may be used to assign start numbers to all competitors, or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]]. It's based on the current order of competitors in the "Competitors" tab.

If it's used to assign start numbers to "all" competitors, it simply confirms you want to do it before assigning start numbers from one.

When assigning start numbers to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]] it gives an option for a starting number. Numbers will be allocated from that point up, but will not include any start numbers that any competitors already have outside the block.

[[image:NatFISReassignStartNumbers1.jpg‎|center]]

==Set Manually==

This option is designed to be used during a seed meeting when a double draw takes place. It's based on bib numbers, which may need to be temporarily assigned for drawing purposes. It's a process that matches the draw process where a bib is selected, and then their start number is selected. You may move from field to field via the [Tab] key or by the [Enter] key:

[[image:NatFISReassignStartNumbers2.jpg‎|center]]

==Clear==

After verifying this is what you really want to do, it will permanently clear the start number assignments for all competitors or the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]].

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Bib Options

2009-10-30T17:42:59Z

Kelly: /* Bibs */

==Bibs==

This is one of the options in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options]] menu. It has 2 options in a sub menu:

==Reassign==

This option may be used to assign bibs to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|blocks of competitors]]. It's based on the current order of competitors in the "Competitors" tab.
You can change the value of the first bib, and if a bib isn't available, it can be skipped by unchecking that number in the sequence. Skipping a bib will automatically adjust the last number bib to be assigned:

[[image:NatFISReassignBibs1.jpg‎|center]]

There's a little more logic involved when assigning bibs to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]]. In this case, the bib numbers outside the block are reserved (marked with an '*') and can't be assigned:

[[image:NatFISReassignBibs.jpg‎|center]]

==Clear==

After verifying this is what you really want to do it will permanently clear the bib assignments for all competitors or the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]].

[[image:NatFISBibsClear.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Bib Options

2009-10-30T17:40:56Z

Kelly: /* Reassign */

==Bibs==

This is one of the options in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|other options]] menu. It has 2 options in a sub menu:

==Reassign==

This option may be used to assign bibs to all competitors or to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|blocks of competitors]]. It's based on the current order of competitors in the "Competitors" tab.
You can change the value of the first bib, and if a bib isn't available, it can be skipped by unchecking that number in the sequence. Skipping a bib will automatically adjust the last number bib to be assigned:

[[image:NatFISReassignBibs1.jpg‎|center]]

There's a little more logic involved when assigning bibs to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]]. In this case, the bib numbers outside the block are reserved (marked with an '*') and can't be assigned:

[[image:NatFISReassignBibs.jpg‎|center]]

==Clear==

After verifying this is what you really want to do it will permanently clear the bib assignments for all competitors or the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Blocks of Competitors]].

[[image:NatFISBibsClear.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Auto Assign

2009-10-30T17:38:42Z

Kelly: /* Automatically Assign Bibs/Start Numbers */

==Automatically Assign Bibs/Start Numbers==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|other options]] menu.

When this option is taken, an explanation screen comes up:

[[image:NatFISAutoAssign.jpg‎|center]]

* The goal of this process is to group and perform the common tasks needed, from the point of having all entries in the software to having bib and start numbers assigned. Without using this option, all the steps will need to be performed via sorting and other tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|other options]] menu.

* The last step of this process is to assign bib numbers. This includes a selection screen explained in [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Bib Options|bib options]].

* As with any situation that involves sorting randomly, this should be performed only once. For further information about random sorting [[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort#Random_Sorting|click here]].

* Turning "Auto Sort" off in the [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] menu has no effect here (since it would make no sense to do this and not sort anyone).

If any competitor already has a result when the option is taken, the following warning will be displayed since it's unlikely you would want to perform these steps:

[[image:NatFISAutoAssignWarning.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Auto Assign

2009-10-30T17:38:21Z

Kelly: /* Automatically Assign Bibs/Start Numbers */

==Automatically Assign Bibs/Start Numbers==

This is one of the tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|other options]] menu.

When this option is taken, an explanation screen comes up:

[[image:NatFISAutoAssign.jpg‎|center]]

* The goal of this process is to group and perform the common tasks needed, from the point of having all entries in the software to having bib and start numbers assigned. Without using this option, all the steps will need to be performed via sorting and other tools in the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|other options]] menu.

* The last step of this process is to assign bib numbers. This includes a selection screen explained in [[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Bib Options|bib options]].

* As with any situation that involves sorting randomly, this should be performed only once. For further information about random sorting [[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort#Random_Sorting|click here]].

* Turning "Auto Sort" off in the [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] menu has no effect here (since it would make no sense to do this and not sort anyone).

If any competitor already has a result when the option is taken, the following warning will be displayed, since it's unlikely you would want to perform these steps:

[[image:NatFISAutoAssignWarning.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Other Options

2009-10-30T17:35:31Z

Kelly: /* Other Options */

==Other Options==

The "Other Options" button from the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|competitors]] tab will give a list of options or tools that are useful for achieving various things. The list of options may change, depending upon the settings made in the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]].

This is what the list looks like for an alpine event:

[[image:NatFISOther.jpg‎|center]]

Some options may apply to a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

Click below for details:

*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Auto Assign|Automatically Assign Bib/Start Numbers]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Bib Options|Bib Options]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Number Options|Start Number Options]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Enter Elapsed Times|Enter Times (elapsed)]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Enter Time Of Day|Enter Time Of Day]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Snow Seed|Snow Seed]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Clear Times|Clear Times]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Reload Points|Reload Points]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other EET|EET]]


*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Start Times|Start Times (XC)]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other Pursuit|2 Day Pursuit (XC)]]

National FIS Software : Installation

2009-10-29T22:19:04Z

Kelly: /* Notification of Updates */

==Installation==
The latest version of the software is always available from [http://www.splitsecond.com/software SplitSecond.com]. Simply save the installation program to your hard drive and run it. Depending on your operating system, the installation program may be run automatically or you may need to double click the downloaded file.

If your computer is unable to connect to the internet, the installation file should be saved from another computer onto a memory stick, CD, or some other media and installed from such. Split Second does not send out the software via email or regular "snail mail".

[[image:NatFIS_Install.jpg‎|250px|center]]

The installation program will copy all needed files to your computer and create a shortcut on the desktop.

[[image:NatFIS_Icon.jpg‎|center]]

Part of the installation process installs the driver needed for the software key. The driver installation may complete after the installation of the software has already finished.

[[image:NatFIS_Key_Install.jpg‎|250px|center]]

Newer versions and revisions are always "backward compatible". This means if you have an earlier version/revision, you can install a newer release without loss of setup information or data.

If this is the first time using the software, you should start the software and:

# Set up the [[National FIS Software : Defaults|defaults]]. This sets the information that will be initially used every time a new file (race) is created.
# Create your first race. To do this, take the menu option "File/New Race". It will ask for a name for the file, and once you hit "Open", the race will be created.

From this stage on, the software will always open with the last race you were working on.

==Notification of Updates==
If your computer is connected to the internet when the software is started, the startup process will check with SplitSecond.com to see if a newer version/revision is available. If there is, you'll see a screen like this (click to enlarge):

[[image:NatFIS_Update.jpg‎|300px|center]]

Updates to the software happen quite frequently; especially during the winter. You may read through the list and see if you are affected by any of the changes and decide if you need the latest version/revision.

New "versions" are created when either a needed change has been made to the software or a significant new feature is added. When a "version" changes you typically should get the update.

New "revisions" are published with minor changes or additions.

National FIS Software : Installation

2009-10-29T22:12:40Z

Kelly: /* Installation */

==Installation==
The latest version of the software is always available from [http://www.splitsecond.com/software SplitSecond.com]. Simply save the installation program to your hard drive and run it. Depending on your operating system, the installation program may be run automatically or you may need to double click the downloaded file.

If your computer is unable to connect to the internet, the installation file should be saved from another computer onto a memory stick, CD, or some other media and installed from such. Split Second does not send out the software via email or regular "snail mail".

[[image:NatFIS_Install.jpg‎|250px|center]]

The installation program will copy all needed files to your computer and create a shortcut on the desktop.

[[image:NatFIS_Icon.jpg‎|center]]

Part of the installation process installs the driver needed for the software key. The driver installation may complete after the installation of the software has already finished.

[[image:NatFIS_Key_Install.jpg‎|250px|center]]

Newer versions and revisions are always "backward compatible". This means if you have an earlier version/revision, you can install a newer release without loss of setup information or data.

If this is the first time using the software, you should start the software and:

# Set up the [[National FIS Software : Defaults|defaults]]. This sets the information that will be initially used every time a new file (race) is created.
# Create your first race. To do this, take the menu option "File/New Race". It will ask for a name for the file, and once you hit "Open", the race will be created.

From this stage on, the software will always open with the last race you were working on.

==Notification of Updates==
If your computer is connected to the internet when the software is started, the startup process will check with SplitSecond.com to see if a newer version/revision is available. If there is, you'll see a screen like this (click to enlarge):

[[image:NatFIS_Update.jpg‎|300px|center]]

Updates to the software happen quite frequently; especially during the winter. Unless you always want to have the latest update available, you may read through the list of changes and see nothing that affects you or that you need.

New "versions" are created when either a needed change has been made to the software or a significant new feature is added. When a "version" changes you typically should get the update.

New "revisions" are published with minor changes or additions.

National FIS Software : Competitors

2009-10-29T22:06:42Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

All the following are accessed from the "Competitors Tab" in the software:

This screen is designed to give the most needed information in a simple, viewable way; and to give the options you'll need to edit, manipulate, and print the data.

Note that the fields displayed may be different, depending on the choices made on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]] screen.

The order of competitors as they're listed on this screen, is often very important. This is the order that the timing screen will expect competitors (if they don't already have a result for run being timed). In other words, if the competitors are listed in random order, you'll have to key in the next bib each time while timing, because it's probably not going to expect the next competitor correctly. In the example below, they're listed in order of start number, so although they already have times, this would be the order you would want before timing the first run.

If there are more competitors than fit on the screen, a scroll bar will appear on the right of the screen to move further down the list.

notes:
* Double clicking on a competitor will bring you directly into the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|edit competitor]] screen for that competitor.
* Right clicking on a competitor will bring up a small selection menu of options that can apply to that competitor.
* Hitting the [Del] key is equivalent of clicking on the "Delete" button, and the [Ins] key is equivalent to clicking on the "Insert" button.
* Resizing the screen will proportionally re-size all columns. This is particularly useful for layouts with a lot of data, such as cross country 2-day pursuit.

*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Working with Blocks of Competitors]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Insert & Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Block Edit|Block Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Delete Find Move|Delete, Find, & Move]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Expose|Hide & Expose]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort|Sorting]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Edit|TOD Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix|TOD Fix]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|Reports]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options (useful stuff!)]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors SkiData Files|Send SkiData Files]]

::[[image:NatFIS_Competitors.jpg‎]]

National FIS Software : Competitors Reports

2009-10-29T21:51:03Z

Kelly:

Reports are accessed via the "Reports" button on the [[National FIS Software : Competitors|competitors tab]]:

[[image:NatFISReports.jpg‎|center]]

Notes:

* The list of reports and the report created for an option, will change depending on the settings made in the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]].

* As shown above, some reports are marked with a yellow key icon. These mark reports are the format expected by the national governing body or FIS.

* By default, the report selected will include all competitors, but most reports can also be generated based on just a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|blocks of competitors]].

* Some reports will give additional options before generating the report. For example:

[[image:NatFISReportOptions.jpg‎|center]]

* The first option allows changing from the default language of English to French. Only some alpine reports are available in French at this time.

* When a report is generated, it's first displayed on the screen. This preview screen allows you to make sure it's exactly what you want before proceeding:

[[image:NatFISReportPreview.jpg‎|center]]

:At this point you may:

:* Scroll through the report.

:* Print. Clicking "print" will bring up a typical Windows print screen allowing all or specific pages to be printed. The process used by the software is unusual because it prints each page as a separate document. This is done to keep each page on it's own piece of paper, but means there isn't an option for two sided printing.

:* Attach the report to Live-Timing.com. This option is only available if the race has been registered with Live-Timing.com. [[Live-Timing : Introduction#Attached_Reports|Click here]] for more information.

:* Edit the report! The report is presented as text, but may be edited, if needed, before printing, etc. Simply click and type/delete, etc. in the preview box.

:* Save to a file. This option will bring up a save screen that will allow you to save it as a text file.

:* Copy the file. By clicking in the preview box and highlighting all the text (or Ctrl-A), you can copy the report as text by hitting Ctrl-C. This can then be pasted as needed into another application, such as Word, via "Paste" or hitting Ctrl-V.

National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Edit

2009-10-29T21:33:04Z

Kelly: /* Time Of Day Edit */

==Time Of Day Edit==

This is a tool that lets you edit the time of day for a competitor's result, instead of just the elapsed time, which is all that's available via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit Competitor]] screen.

At first glance it's a complicated screen. The reason for this is that it allows you to edit every Time of Day element for both runs; including all potential intermediate, speed trap, and backup times.

It's best if you don't use this screen unless you have to. If the correction can be made with [[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix|TOD Fix]], that would be a better approach with less chance for error.

Some important points when using this screen:

# Time of Day information should always be entered to the maximum printing precision of the timer. If your timer prints to 1/10,000th of a second you should enter to that precision.
# As well as a time; there's a status. If you enter time of day information where there was previously no result, you will need to set the status to "Time".
# There are shortcuts that can be used to simplify time entry. Please read the the explanation via the "Information" (see below).
# An elapsed time can't have a start time of day of zero. It has to be 0.000001 or greater. If an elapsed time is entered via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit Competitor]] screen and there isn't already a start time, then the 0.000001 value will be used and added to the finish time to create the correct elapsed.

[[image:NatFIS_TODEdit.jpg‎|center]]

Data entry explanation:

[[image:NatFIS_TODEditInformation.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix

2009-10-29T21:29:24Z

Kelly: /* Time Of Day Fix */

==Time Of Day Fix==

This is a very powerful, yet easy tool to use.

When timing is managed with the software and an attached timing device, the software keeps track of every input and action in the "Timing Log". Times are recorded as a "Time of Day", and elapsed times are calculated by the software, based on a start and a finish time. This tool allows you to interact with the "Timing Log" to correct times.

From the "Competitors Tab", click on the person you possibly want to correct, and then click on the TOD Fix button.

This may also be used while timing! Just click on the competitor and choose "TOD Fix" from the list of options.

If the person has any "Time of Day" information for the first run, it will place you in the "Timing Log" at that point. You may change to the 2nd run simply by clicking on the radio button near the top of the screen.

If needed, use the direction arrows to move through the timing log data.

It's very simple to use. As you move the mouse over a timing log entry, it will give a small information box telling you if that line can be used with that competitor, and what the elapsed time would be. Simply click to accept.

[[image:NatFIS_TODFix.jpg‎|center]]

In the example above, bib 6 currently has an elapsed time of 25.47; however, as can be seen by the green information box, accepting the earlier start would give a result of 29.48.

In this way, you can simply make a correction and see what the outcome will be. And you won't have to do any time-math yourself!

Changing the time for a competitor in this screen will result in an [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit#Audit|Audit Entry]].

National FIS Software : Competitors Sort

2009-10-29T20:35:55Z

Kelly: /* Random Sorting */

==Overview==

Clicking on "Sort" will give a list of possible sort options; often with sub-options for ascending and descending. The list will vary, depending upon the settings on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|header tab]]. The sort will apply to all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_Sort.jpg‎|center]]

Under most situations, you won’t need to use the sort options. Whenever a report is generated, it will sort the competitors into the correct order.

If the order it creates is not correct or you have a special situation that needs a particular order, you can achieve this as follows:

# In the 'Edit|Options' menu uncheck the "Automatically sort when needed" option. When this is unchecked, it will give a prompt any time it would normally sort, giving you the option to accept the default sort or not.
# Using the "sort" options (with or without a block marked) and possibly the "move" option get the competitors into the order needed.
# Print the report. When it prompts to "Sort ?" answer "N".

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:''' In the event of more than one competitor having the same value for a sort option, the original order is maintained. For example, if you sort by time and then sort by class, you'll end up with the competitors sorted by time within class. This can be very useful!
</div>

==Random Sorting==

Questions often come up regarding random sorting.

====Only Random Sort Once!====

Never sort until you like the result! If you were doing a double blind draw in a team captains meeting and the resulting start order happened to be the same as the original order on the board; or if all competitors from the same nation raced first, you wouldn't do the draw again, because that's a legitimate result of random sorting.

It's so quick and simple to do a random sort using the software, that it may become tempting to do it again, if the result seems unusual or coincidental.

Resist! Only sort once and accept whatever you get!

====Is it Truly Random?====

Technically, no. It's "pseudo-random". But the argument can easily be made, that for this application, pseudo-random is random enough.

Websters Dictionary defines pseudo-random as:

::''being or involving entities (as numbers) that are selected by a definite computational process, but that satisfy one or more standard tests for statistical randomness''

For those interested, here are the details on the random sorting process used by Split Second Software:

There's a random number generator built into the development environment used for making the software. This creates values between 0.0 and 1.0 and is based on a random seed.

The process has 2^31-1   (2,147,483,647) equally likely resulting values.

The process of calling a random number will repeat itself, but there are three reasons why this isn't that big of a deal (in this application):

# 2,147,483,647 is a '''LOT'''! For the application of ski racing if a random draw was done for 30 competitors and you had a race every day, it wouldn't start to repeat for about 200,000 years!
# You would never know when it started repeating, except if you compared it with all previous data.
# When the software starts, the seed is initialized based on the system clock (microseconds). So every time the software starts; you wouldn't know where in that sequence of 2,147,483,647 random numbers you would be!

The actual random sorting process is done by:

# Assigning one of the random numbers (between 0.0 and 1.0) to each competitor.
# Sorting the competitors based on the random numbers set.

====Random Thoughts====

Perhaps the act of writing a number on a ping pong ball creates a less random situation than a pseudo-random number?

True random numbers are supposedly rare (although, the number 6 might be one of them).

If you want official random numbers, you might consider buying this book, which contains 1 million random numbers, along with 25 pages explaining how they were produced. An interesting point is, you could start reading the book at any point and it would be equally interesting. If you like reading phone books, this might be even more fun!

::click to enlarge [[image:RandomNumberBook‎.jpg|250px]]

Perhaps the numbers in this book should be sorted, to help you find the one you want!

On a personal note:

Many years ago while at college, I wrote some software to calculate pi to tens of thousands of places. I forgot to put page numbers on the result when I printed it and then accidentally got the pages mixed up. The only page I knew was correct was the first page which started 3.14159.....
After staring at the pages of seemingly random numbers, I concluded the process of calculating pi to this precision, although fun, was totally pointless.

Geoff Elder

National FIS Software : Competitors Sort

2009-10-29T20:11:20Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

Clicking on "Sort" will give a list of possible sort options; often with sub-options for ascending and descending. The list will vary, depending upon the settings on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|header tab]]. The sort will apply to all competitors or the current [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|block of competitors]].

[[image:NatFIS_Sort.jpg‎|center]]

Under most situations, you won’t need to use the sort options. Whenever a report is generated, it will sort the competitors into the correct order.

If the order it creates is not correct or you have a special situation that needs a particular order, you can achieve this as follows:

# In the 'Edit|Options' menu uncheck the "Automatically sort when needed" option. When this is unchecked, it will give a prompt any time it would normally sort, giving you the option to accept the default sort or not.
# Using the "sort" options (with or without a block marked) and possibly the "move" option get the competitors into the order needed.
# Print the report. When it prompts to "Sort ?" answer "N".

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:''' In the event of more than one competitor having the same value for a sort option, the original order is maintained. For example, if you sort by time and then sort by class, you'll end up with the competitors sorted by time within class. This can be very useful!
</div>

==Random Sorting==

Questions often come up regarding random sorting.

====Only Random Sort Once!====

Never sort until you like the result! If you were doing a double blind draw in a team captains meeting and the resulting start order happened to be the same as the original order on the board, or if all competitors from the same nation raced first, you wouldn't do the draw again because that's a legitimate result of random sorting.

It's so quick and simple to do a random sort using the software, that it may become tempting to do it again if the result seems unusual or coincidental.

Resist! Only sort once and accept whatever you get!

====Is it Truly Random?====

Technically, no. It's "pseudo-random". But, the argument can easily be made that for this application pseudo-random is random enough.

Websters Dictionary defines pseudo-random as:

::''being or involving entities (as numbers) that are selected by a definite computational process, but that satisfy one or more standard tests for statistical randomness''

For those interested, here are the details on the random sorting process used by Split Second Software:

There's a random number generator built into the development environment used for making the software. This creates values between 0.0 and 1.0 and is based on a random seed.

The process has 2^31-1   (2,147,483,647) equally likely resulting values.

The process of calling a random number will repeat itself, but there are three reasons why this isn't that big of a deal (in this application):

# 2,147,483,647 is a '''LOT'''! For the application of ski racing if a random draw was done for 30 competitors and you had a race every day, it wouldn't start to repeat for about 200,000 years!
# You would never know when it started repeating except if you compared it with all previous data.
# When the software starts, the seed is initialized based on the system clock (microseconds). So, every time the software starts you wouldn't know where in that sequence of 2,147,483,647 random numbers you would be!

The actual random sorting process is done by:

# Assigning one of the random numbers (between 0.0 and 1.0) to each competitor.
# Sorting the competitors based on the random numbers set.

====Random Thoughts====

Perhaps the act of writing a number on a ping pong ball creates a less random situation than a pseudorandom number?

True random numbers are supposedly rare (although, the number 6 might be one of them).

If you want official random numbers you might consider buying this book which contains 1 million random numbers along with 25 pages explaining how they were produced. An interesting point is you could start reading the book at any point and it would be equally interesting. If you like reading phone books, this might be even more fun!

::click to enlarge [[image:RandomNumberBook‎.jpg|250px]]

Perhaps the numbers in this book should be sorted, to help you find the one you want!

On a personal note:

Many years ago while at college I wrote some software to calculate pi to tens of thousands of places. I forgot to put page numbers on the result when I printed it and then accidentally got the pages mixed up. The only page I knew was correct was the first page which started 3.14159.....
After staring at the pages of seemingly random numbers I concluded the process of calculating pi to this precision, although fun, was totally pointless.

Geoff Elder

National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Expose

2009-10-29T20:06:38Z

Kelly:

As explained via the information button (the button with a question mark on it):

[[image:NatFIS_Hide.jpg‎|center]]

Competitors that are hidden are not recognized in any part of the software. This means they won't factor into any calculations or reports and can't be bought up in timing screens or edited.

Hidden competitors are stored with the race. So, if you come back to the race at a later time, you may still "expose" them.

This option is useful in a number of situations such as:

* When you need to delete a competitor, but there's a chance they may need to be added back into the start list.

* When the race is finished and you need to do results for a specific group of competitors (and hide all others). In most situations, doing a report on a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Block of Competitors]] will do what is needed, but if not, try "Hide".

National FIS Software : Competitors Delete Find Move

2009-10-29T20:04:10Z

Kelly: /* Move */

==Delete==

This will allow you to delete any one competitor or a block of competitors. It will give you a prompt, to ensure that this is really what you want to do before deleting.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
:'''NOTE:''' Once competitors are deleted, their information can’t be restored! If you think you might want to bring the competitor back; consider using [[National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Show|Hide]].
</div>

==Find==

Simply enter a last name, partial last name, or a bib number to find. At the moment; it, unfortunately, always starts from the top of the list of competitors. So if you do a "Find" again, it will always find the same person, rather than the next one.

==Move==

This will move the current competitor or block of competitors.

When you click "Move", it will put you in "Move" mode. A small screen will appear:

[[image:NatFIS_Move.jpg‎|center]]

Read the instructions of the screen carefully. The next place you click will dictate where the competitor(s) are moved. An extra line is created at the end of the competitor list, so you can move to the end of the list.

If you click the "Cancel" button on the instruction box, nothing will be moved!

National FIS Software : Competitors Delete Find Move

2009-10-29T20:02:36Z

Kelly: /* Find */

==Delete==

This will allow you to delete any one competitor or a block of competitors. It will give you a prompt, to ensure that this is really what you want to do before deleting.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
:'''NOTE:''' Once competitors are deleted, their information can’t be restored! If you think you might want to bring the competitor back; consider using [[National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Show|Hide]].
</div>

==Find==

Simply enter a last name, partial last name, or a bib number to find. At the moment; it, unfortunately, always starts from the top of the list of competitors. So if you do a "Find" again, it will always find the same person, rather than the next one.

==Move==

This will move the current competitor or block of competitors.

When you click "Move" it will put you in "Move" mode. A small screen will appear:

[[image:NatFIS_Move.jpg‎|center]]

Read the instructions of the screen carefully. The next place you click will dictate where the competitor(s) are moved. An extra line is created at the end of the competitor list so you can move to the end of the list.

If you click the "Cancel" button on the instruction box, nothing will be moved!

National FIS Software : Competitors Delete Find Move

2009-10-29T20:01:06Z

Kelly: /* Delete */

==Delete==

This will allow you to delete any one competitor or a block of competitors. It will give you a prompt, to ensure that this is really what you want to do before deleting.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
:'''NOTE:''' Once competitors are deleted, their information can’t be restored! If you think you might want to bring the competitor back; consider using [[National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Show|Hide]].
</div>

==Find==

Simply enter a last name, partial last name, or a bib number to find. At the moment, it, unfortunately, always starts from the top of the list of competitors. So, if you do a Find again, it will always find the same person, rather than the next one.

==Move==

This will move the current competitor or block of competitors.

When you click "Move" it will put you in "Move" mode. A small screen will appear:

[[image:NatFIS_Move.jpg‎|center]]

Read the instructions of the screen carefully. The next place you click will dictate where the competitor(s) are moved. An extra line is created at the end of the competitor list so you can move to the end of the list.

If you click the "Cancel" button on the instruction box, nothing will be moved!

National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit

2009-10-29T19:59:35Z

Kelly: /* Cross Country */

==Overview==

To create the first competitor, or to insert another at any time, use the "Insert" button on the competitor screen. You will get a screen like the following:

[[image:NatFIS_Edit.jpg‎|center]]

Once in this screen, additional competitors may be added using the "Insert Next" button. The up and down arrows can also be used to navigate through the list of competitors while remaining in the edit screen.

The above example shows many fields that you won’t need to manually fill out while doing competitor entries:

Bib Number / Start Number – These are usually set at or after the seed meeting, using options in the "Other Options" menu, or by editing at that time.

At first glance, this seems like a lot of information to enter; but most of it is pulled from the seed list.
If a seed list has been selected (see [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors/lists]]), you can pull people from the list by Last Name, USSA Number, or FIS number (if a FIS race).

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''HINT:''' There are a number of ways to get to the edit competitor screen:<br>
::* Click on the "Edit" button.
::* Double click on a competitor while in the competitors tab.
::* Right click on a competitor and choose 'Edit' from the menu.
::* Click on a competitor while timing and choose 'Edit'.
</div>

Some specifics:

====Class====

The class field will be filled in automatically, based on the year of birth of the competitor and the date of the race (set in the header). The class/age breakdowns are set in the "Edit | Classes" option.

====Snow Seed====

Sometimes a snow seed is created when there is fresh snow on the trail and some of the later racers are run at the start. The check box at the bottom of the page indicates this. It can be set for an individual person here or using a special option in the "Other Options" menu. People in the snow seed will be highlighted on the start list by an "*" next to their name. In the timing screen it will assume these people are going first and expect to run them in reverse order.

====Points====

In the example above, the points for all events are shown. This is because the data was pulled from the points list. If entering manually, only the points for the current event are needed. The column showing FIS points is only displayed when it’s a FIS race.

====Amount Paid====

This an option used to keep track of finances for an event. A value may be entered or "C" for a comp (complimentary) competitor. A [[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|report]] is available that details the finances of the event.

====Notes====

This can be used for anything as needed. It could be used for any actions associated with a competitor such as "needs to produce proof of membership", etc. There's a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|report]] that lists the notes for all competitors who have notes.

====Results====

If entering times for a number of competitors; it’s much quicker to use the "Enter Times" option in the "Options" menu.

The same entry shortcuts apply here to simplify entry:
* Times may be entered without punctuation if entered to 1/100. For example: 12345 would be interpreted as 1:23.45
* Times can be entered without full precision if the other punctuation is included. For example: 56.7 would become 56.70; 1:5.9 would be 1:05.90
* Times may be entered in seconds. For example: 88.55 would be 1:25.55
* DNS can be entered simply with an "S", DNF with an "F", and DSQ with a "Q".
* If the result is a DSQ, a new field will appear for entry of the gate number or rule number.

====Audit====

To ensure integrity of the data, an audit is kept of any changes made to results and from where those changes came. This allows the source of a time to be verified and to track down any issues or confusion.

In the example below; the time originated from electronic timing, was then set to DNF manually, using the edit competitor screen, and then set (back to it's original value) via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix|TOD fix]] tool.

[[image:NatFIS_Audit.jpg‎|center]]

==Cross Country==

If cross country is selected, there will be slightly different fields on this screen:

[[image:NatFIS_EditXC.jpg‎|center]]

The key thing to understand with management of cross country events, especially when timing is involved, is how [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|cross country times]] work.

====Points====

For everything other than sprint events, the distance points are used. These may be pulled directly from the points lists as detailed under [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors / lists]].

====Distance====

This field only needs to be used if the event has more than one distance. This would be needed where the timing of more than one distance can't be separated and has to be managed at the same time. Rankings will always be only within competitors of the same distance.

====Seed====

Sometimes the start order for a race will require seeds to be set. This can be used in conjunction with the option to [[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort|sort]] by seed.

====Gender (M/F)====

This field only needs to be used if the event has more than one gender and they can't be split because of timing issues. Rankings will always be only within competitors of the same gender.

====Times====

As noted above, please see [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|cross country times]] for a full explanation.

National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit

2009-10-29T19:53:15Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

To create the first competitor, or to insert another at any time, use the "Insert" button on the competitor screen. You will get a screen like the following:

[[image:NatFIS_Edit.jpg‎|center]]

Once in this screen, additional competitors may be added using the "Insert Next" button. The up and down arrows can also be used to navigate through the list of competitors while remaining in the edit screen.

The above example shows many fields that you won’t need to manually fill out while doing competitor entries:

Bib Number / Start Number – These are usually set at or after the seed meeting, using options in the "Other Options" menu, or by editing at that time.

At first glance, this seems like a lot of information to enter; but most of it is pulled from the seed list.
If a seed list has been selected (see [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors/lists]]), you can pull people from the list by Last Name, USSA Number, or FIS number (if a FIS race).

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''HINT:''' There are a number of ways to get to the edit competitor screen:<br>
::* Click on the "Edit" button.
::* Double click on a competitor while in the competitors tab.
::* Right click on a competitor and choose 'Edit' from the menu.
::* Click on a competitor while timing and choose 'Edit'.
</div>

Some specifics:

====Class====

The class field will be filled in automatically, based on the year of birth of the competitor and the date of the race (set in the header). The class/age breakdowns are set in the "Edit | Classes" option.

====Snow Seed====

Sometimes a snow seed is created when there is fresh snow on the trail and some of the later racers are run at the start. The check box at the bottom of the page indicates this. It can be set for an individual person here or using a special option in the "Other Options" menu. People in the snow seed will be highlighted on the start list by an "*" next to their name. In the timing screen it will assume these people are going first and expect to run them in reverse order.

====Points====

In the example above, the points for all events are shown. This is because the data was pulled from the points list. If entering manually, only the points for the current event are needed. The column showing FIS points is only displayed when it’s a FIS race.

====Amount Paid====

This an option used to keep track of finances for an event. A value may be entered or "C" for a comp (complimentary) competitor. A [[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|report]] is available that details the finances of the event.

====Notes====

This can be used for anything as needed. It could be used for any actions associated with a competitor such as "needs to produce proof of membership", etc. There's a [[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|report]] that lists the notes for all competitors who have notes.

====Results====

If entering times for a number of competitors; it’s much quicker to use the "Enter Times" option in the "Options" menu.

The same entry shortcuts apply here to simplify entry:
* Times may be entered without punctuation if entered to 1/100. For example: 12345 would be interpreted as 1:23.45
* Times can be entered without full precision if the other punctuation is included. For example: 56.7 would become 56.70; 1:5.9 would be 1:05.90
* Times may be entered in seconds. For example: 88.55 would be 1:25.55
* DNS can be entered simply with an "S", DNF with an "F", and DSQ with a "Q".
* If the result is a DSQ, a new field will appear for entry of the gate number or rule number.

====Audit====

To ensure integrity of the data, an audit is kept of any changes made to results and from where those changes came. This allows the source of a time to be verified and to track down any issues or confusion.

In the example below; the time originated from electronic timing, was then set to DNF manually, using the edit competitor screen, and then set (back to it's original value) via the [[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix|TOD fix]] tool.

[[image:NatFIS_Audit.jpg‎|center]]

==Cross Country==

If cross country is selected there will be slight different fields on this screen:

[[image:NatFIS_EditXC.jpg‎|center]]

The key thing to understand with management of cross country events, and especially when timing is involved, is how [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|cross country times]] work.

====Points====

For everything other than sprint events the distance points are used. These may be pulled directly from the points lists as detailed under [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors / lists]].

====Distance====

This field only needs to be used if the event has more than one distance. This would be needed where the timing of more than one distance can't be separated and has to be managed at the same time. Rankings will always be only within competitors of the same distance.

====Seed====

Sometimes the start order for a race will require seeds to be set. This can be used in conjunction with the option to [[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort|sort]] by seed.

====Gender (M/F)====

This field only needs to be used if the event has more than one gender and they can't be split because of timing issues. Rankings will always be only within competitors of the same gender.

====Times====

As noted above please see [[National FIS Software : Cross Country Times|cross country times]] for a full explanation.

National FIS Software : Competitors Block

2009-10-29T19:47:12Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

Options that deal with competitors default to dealing with the current competitor (the one with the highlight on it) or to all competitors.

Which options apply to an individual competitor and which apply to all competitors should be intuitive.
But for example, by default, the following apply to just the current competitor:
* Edit
* Delete
* TOD Fix
* Move
* Hide

And by default, the following apply to all the competitors:
* Sort
* Reports
* Choices in "Other Options"

==Block of Competitors==

Many of the options may also be applied to a block of competitors. A block is technically a contiguous group, which means a group of competitors all in a row.

To highlight a block, simply click on the first person (bib 5 below) and drag the mouse across all the people you want to include. In this case 6 competitors, ending with bib 10. The number of competitors in the block is always displayed on the left of the status bar.

Now, when you take an option, if it makes sense, it will apply to just the block of competitors. This is particularly useful for sorting, making reports, and choosing selections from "Other Options".

Note that as the block is created, the "[[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Edit]]" option changes to "[[National FIS Software : Competitors Block Edit|Block Edit]]". This is a different edit screen that applies specifically to blocks of competitors.

To change out of block mode simply click on any competitor.

Block example:

::[[image:NatFIS_Block.jpg‎]]

National FIS Software : Competitors

2009-10-29T19:45:13Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

All the following are accessed from the "Competitors Tab" in the software:

This screen is designed to give the most needed information in a simple, viewable way; and to give the options you'll need to edit, manipulate, and print the data.

Note that the fields displayed may be different, depending on the choices made on the [[National FIS Software : Race Header|race header]] screen.

The order of competitors as they're listed on this screen is often very important. This is the order that the timing screen will expect competitors next (if they don't already have a result for run being timed). In other words, if the competitors are listed in random order, you'll have to key in the next bib every time while timing because it's probably not going to expect the next competitor correctly. In the example below, they're listed in order of start number, so although they already have times, this would be the order you would want before timing the first run.

If there are more competitors than fit on the screen, a scroll bar will appear on the right of the screen to move further down the list.

notes:
* Double clicking on a competitor will bring you directly into the [[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|edit competitor]] screen for that competitor.
* Right clicking on a competitor will bring up a small selection menu of options that can apply to that competitor.
* Hitting the [Del] key is equivalent of clicking on the "Delete" button, and the [Ins] key is equivalent to clicking on the "Insert" button.
* Resizing the screen will proportionally re-size all columns. This is particularly useful for layouts with a lot of data, such as cross country 2-day pursuit.

*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Block|Working with Blocks of Competitors]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Insert Edit|Insert & Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Block Edit|Block Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Delete Find Move|Delete, Find, & Move]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Hide Expose|Hide & Expose]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Sort|Sorting]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Edit|TOD Edit]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors TOD Fix|TOD Fix]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Reports|Reports]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors Other|Other Options (useful stuff!)]]
*[[National FIS Software : Competitors SkiData Files|Send SkiData Files]]

::[[image:NatFIS_Competitors.jpg‎]]

National FIS Software : Run Data

2009-10-29T19:41:55Z

Kelly:

This is where information specific to the runs is entered. The example below is for a Giant Slalom (in Canada) and so includes area to enter 2nd Run information.

Temperatures may be entered in either Celsius or Fahrenheit. To enter a temperature in Fahrenheit simply enter with an "f" at the end and it will automatically be converted. (for example 20F will become –7C).

Example (click to enlarge):

::[[image:NatFIS_RunData.jpg‎|300px]]

National FIS Software : Run Data

2009-10-29T19:41:05Z

Kelly:

National FIS Software : Officials

2009-10-29T19:39:32Z

Kelly:

Example (click to enlarge):

::[[image:NatFIS_Officials.jpg‎|300px]]

Official's name should be in the format "I. Last (USA)".

There are ways to simplify entering officials' names. If a list is selected under the Factors/Lists page for "Officials", a look-up will be performed as the last name of a person is typed. In this case, instead of entering the name as above, start entering the first few letters of the last name and select from the list that appears on the right side of the screen.

If not using a list to look up names, the following things help:
* If a nation is not entered, it will default to USA (or the country set in the header page).
* If you enter a country, you don’t need to space it out; it will be done automatically. For example, entering "G. ELDER (NZL)" would result in "G. ELDER (NZL)".

USSA numbers are also needed for all officials. Although these don’t appear on many reports, they are needed in the ski data files that goes to USSA.

If it’s a FIS race, you will need to enter the FIS number of the TD.

National FIS Software : Factors Lists

2009-10-29T19:36:41Z

Kelly:

==Overview==

Some of the fields on this tab aren't used for snowboard or cross country events.

When a new race is created, the f-factors and max seed points are set based on the current settings in the [[National FIS Software : Defaults|defaults screen]], which are set via software updates near the start of the season. Typically, they shouldn't need to be changed. If a race is opened from a previous season, it will have the F-Factors, etc. as they were set at that time.

[[Image:NatFIS Factors.jpg|center]]

==Points Lists==
Depending on the level of race (National level, or FIS), your race may use National or FIS points for athletes.

The software is set up to download and use USSA and FIS lists as generated by the USSA. If you are holding a FIS race in a country outside the U.S., you still download and use the FIS list from the USA, because it's in a format for the software.

Be sure to read the explanation on the screen carefully.

There are two steps to the process and it's often misunderstood.

* 1. If the list you need isn't available in the drop-down list, click on the button to "Download Points Lists". The option will download or load points lists, so they can be used by the software. In addition to having the option on this screen, the process of loading points lists is also available from the menu system via "Activities|Load Points Lists". The simplest method is to download the points list directly from the USSA web site while online:

[[Image:NatFIS Points1.jpg|center]]

:This will connect to the FTP site and display all available points lists. Simply choose any and all you wish to download, by clicking on the check box, and click "OK". They will then download and be unzipped ready for use:

[[Image:NatFIS Points2.jpg|center]]

* 2. The list is selected to be used.

[[Image:NatFIS Points3.jpg|center]]

If there are multiple races during the valid period for a list, then the list doesn't need to be downloaded each time. Just downloaded once, and selected for each race.

If you want to enter competitors for a race, but the correct list isn't available yet, you can do the entries using the most recent list. When the correct list is available, download it, select it for the race, and take the option from the competitors screen via the "Other Options" button to "Reload Points from Points Lists".

====Cross Country====

The process for downloading and using lists for cross country is exactly the same as above. When set to cross country, the software will automatically pull lists from another folder on the FTP site, specifically for cross country points.

National FIS Software : Factors Lists

2009-10-28T21:02:59Z

Kelly: /* Points Lists */

==Overview==

Some of the fields on this tab aren't used for snowboard and cross country events.

When a new race is created, the f-factors and max seed points are set based on the current settings in the [[National FIS Software : Defaults|defaults screen]], which are set via software updates near the start of the season. Typically, they shouldn't need to be changed. If a race is opened from a previous season, it will have the F-Factors, etc. as they were set at that time.

[[Image:NatFIS Factors.jpg|center]]

==Points Lists==
Depending on the level of race (National level, or FIS), your race may use National or FIS points for athletes.

The software is set up to download and use USSA and FIS lists as generated by the USSA. If you are holding a FIS race in a country outside the U.S., you still download and use the FIS list from the USA because it's in a format for the software.

Be sure to read the explanation on the screen carefully.

There are two steps to the process and it's often misunderstood.

* 1. If the list you need isn't available in the drop-down list click on the button to 'Download Points Lists'. The option will download or load points lists so they can be used by the software. In addition to having the option on this screen the process of loading points lists is also available from the menu system via 'Activities|Load Points Lists'. The simplest method is to download the points list directly from the USSA web site while online:

[[Image:NatFIS Points1.jpg|center]]

:This will connect to the FTP site and display all available points lists. Simply choose any and all you wish to download, by clicking on the check box, and click "OK". They will then download and be unzipped ready for use:

[[Image:NatFIS Points2.jpg|center]]

* 2. The list is selected to be used.

[[Image:NatFIS Points3.jpg|center]]

If there are multiple races during the valid period for a list then the list doesn't need to be downloaded each time, just downloaded once and selected for each race.

If you want to enter competitors for a race but the correct list isn't available yet, you can do the entries using the most recent list. Then, when the correct list is available download it, select it for the race, and take the option from the competitors screen via the "Other Options" button to "Reload Points from Points Lists".

====Cross Country====

The process for downloading and using lists for cross country is exactly the same as above. When set to cross country the software will automatically pull lists from another folder on the FTP site specifically for cross country points.

National FIS Software : Factors Lists

2009-10-28T18:16:45Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==

Some of the fields on this tab aren't used for snowboard and cross country events.

When a new race is created, the f-factors and max seed points are set based on the current settings in the [[National FIS Software : Defaults|defaults screen]], which are set via software updates near the start of the season. Typically, they shouldn't need to be changed. If a race is opened from a previous season, it will have the F-Factors, etc. as they were set at that time.

[[Image:NatFIS Factors.jpg|center]]

==Points Lists==
Depending on the level of race (National level, or FIS) your race may use National or FIS points for athletes.

The software is set up to download and use USSA and FIS lists as generated by the USSA. If you are holding a FIS race in a country outside the U.S., you still download and use the FIS list from the USA because it's in a format for the software.

Be sure to read the explanation on the screen carefully.

There are two steps to the process and it's often misunderstood.

* 1. If the list you need isn't available in the drop-down list click on the button to 'Download Points Lists'. The option will download or load points lists so they can be used by the software. In addition to having the option on this screen the process of loading points lists is also available from the menu system via 'Activities|Load Points Lists'. The simplest method is to download the points list directly from the USSA web site while online:

[[Image:NatFIS Points1.jpg|center]]

:This will connect to the FTP site and display all available points lists. Simply choose any and all you wish to download, by clicking on the check box, and click "OK". They will then download and be unzipped ready for use:

[[Image:NatFIS Points2.jpg|center]]

* 2. The list is selected to be used.

[[Image:NatFIS Points3.jpg|center]]

If there are multiple races during the valid period for a list then the list doesn't need to be downloaded each time, just downloaded once and selected for each race.

If you want to enter competitors for a race but the correct list isn't available yet, you can do the entries using the most recent list. Then, when the correct list is available download it, select it for the race, and take the option from the competitors screen via the "Other Options" button to "Reload Points from Points Lists".

====Cross Country====

The process for downloading and using lists for cross country is exactly the same as above. When set to cross country the software will automatically pull lists from another folder on the FTP site specifically for cross country points.

National FIS Software : Race Header

2009-10-28T18:10:23Z

Kelly:

==Overview==
The selections made in the header tab influence much of the rest of the software. Changes in discipline, event, and race level will change features of the software throughout. This will include different data displayed on the competitors screen, different fields when editing competitors, different sorting options, timing screens, and reports.

For this reason, selecting the choices for your race should be the first thing done when a new race is created. Some fields will already be populated on this screen based on [[National FIS Software : Defaults|Defaults]] already set.

[[image:NatFIS_Header1.jpg‎|center]]

Even within the header, things will change depending on selections. Below is an example of the changes; when changing the discipline to snowboard and half-pipe (click to enlarge):

[[image:NatFIS_Header2.jpg‎|250px|center]]

==Notes on Specific Fields==

=====Race Name=====
This is used at the top of all reports.

=====Race Level=====
If this is selected as a USSA/ACA, etc. race, you will have the ability to unselect the "Scored" option.

=====Scored=====
Only available if it’s a USSA/ACA, etc. race (all FIS and higher races must be scored). If this is not checked, race points will not be calculated and points will not be displayed on results. This is ideal for J4/J5 races.

=====Race Date=====
Select from drop-down calendar.

=====# in Top Seed=====
This is used for the option in the assign menu to "Automatically Assign Bib/Start Numbers".

=====# to Reverse Second Run=====
This is the number of people that are reversed for the second run. This number will automatically be increased (but not visible) in the event of a tie. If you are reversing the top 30, and there's a 3-way tie for 30th, don't change this. The rules will be applied correctly and the extra competitors included in the correct order.

=====Race Fee=====
This can be used if you want to use the software for simple race accounting. There is a field in the Competitor Edit screen for the amount paid (can be a comp) and a Financial Report option in the report menu.

=====USSA Code / FIS Code=====
The code assigned to this race by USSA and/or FIS. It's very important that this number is correct!

=====USSA / FIS Penalty to Apply=====
This is not normally needed. The only time to use this, is when the calculated penalty needs to be overridden. If the TD determines the calculated penalty is not correct, enter the penalty he/she wants to use in this field and it will be used in the "Applied Penalty" section of the penalty report. This is possible when the calculated penalty is not within the limits set for the particular race level.

=====Start / Finish Elevation=====
Entered in meters. An automatic conversion takes place if feet are entered followed by "f". For example: Entering 1234f will automatically get converted to 376 meters. The vertical drop is calculated from start to finish.

=====Length=====
Only visible for DH and SG events. The course length in meters; same conversion applies as above for feet to meters.

=====Homologation Number=====
This is the number assigned by FIS for the trail.

=====Governing Body / Gov Body Abbrev / Country=====
To set to USA or Canada use the buttons to the right. For other nationalities, these may only be modified with a [[Keys & Licenses|Key & License]]. Changing the abbreviation will change the field names throughout the software.

=====Division=====
Used for reports. The word "Division" will be added where needed.

=====Timing=====
Select from the drop down or key in the Make and Model. This isn't telling the software which timer to communicate with, but simply getting the information as part of the record keeping for FIS, etc.

==Cross Country==

If the discipline is selected as cross country, additional fields will be available:

[[image:NatFIS_HeaderXC.jpg‎|center]]

National FIS Software : Files

2009-10-27T00:09:49Z

Kelly: /* Changing Sex */

==Overview==
A race is stored on your computer as a file. Whenever you create a new race, it will ask for a name for the file before creating it. Choose the names for your files carefully. Over time you may end up with hundreds of files, so having a naming system can help find the right file when needed.

The race is stored as an XML file. Do not edit the XML file directly with an editor or other product.

Compared to storage capacity of modern computers, race files are tiny. It is very unlikely that a large number of files will cause a problem with available disk space. Large numbers of files may, however, get confusing and difficult to navigate.

Files are automatically saved every few minutes. The default for this is every five minutes, but this may be changed in the [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] screen. The [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] screen also allows the default folder to be changed.

All data for a race is included in one file and may include data for both men and women.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::* Although a race file may contain data for both sexes, you may prefer one file for each sex instead. This will allow you to move data files around more freely (possibly working one sex while timing the other, etc.). With experience you'll be able to decide what works best for your situation. You have to decide before you enter data because afterward they can't easily be separated.
</div>

==Changing Sex==

To change sex within a file use the "File|Change Sex" menu option, the shortcut Ctrl-S, or click anywhere on the status bar on the main screen:

[[image:NatFIS_StatusBar.jpg‎|center]]

When changing sex, it's best to wait a few seconds before doing anything else. The process of changing sex is more complicated than it may seem because much of the layout of the software is customized to the event. Since the sexes may have different race types, a large number of things are changed in this process.

National FIS Software : Files

2009-10-27T00:07:50Z

Kelly: /* Overview */

==Overview==
A race is stored on your computer as a file. Whenever you create a new race, it will ask for a name for the file before creating it. Choose the names for your files carefully. Over time you may end up with hundreds of files, so having a naming system can help find the right file when needed.

The race is stored as an XML file. Do not edit the XML file directly with an editor or other product.

Compared to storage capacity of modern computers, race files are tiny. It is very unlikely that a large number of files will cause a problem with available disk space. Large numbers of files may, however, get confusing and difficult to navigate.

Files are automatically saved every few minutes. The default for this is every five minutes, but this may be changed in the [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] screen. The [[National FIS Software : Edit Options|edit options]] screen also allows the default folder to be changed.

All data for a race is included in one file and may include data for both men and women.

<div style="background-color:LightGray; -moz-border-radius:15px;">
::'''NOTE:'''<br>
::* Although a race file may contain data for both sexes, you may prefer one file for each sex instead. This will allow you to move data files around more freely (possibly working one sex while timing the other, etc.). With experience you'll be able to decide what works best for your situation. You have to decide before you enter data because afterward they can't easily be separated.
</div>

==Changing Sex==

To change sex within a file use the "File|Change Sex" menu option, the shortcut Ctrl-S, or click anywhere on the status bar on the main screen:

[[image:NatFIS_StatusBar.jpg‎|center]]

When changing sex it's best to wait a few seconds before doing anything else. The process of changing sex is more complicated than it may seem because much of the layout of the software is customized to the event and since the sexes may have different race types, a large number of things are changed in this process.

National FIS Software : Defaults

2009-10-27T00:03:35Z

Kelly:

You get to the defaults screen via the menu option "Edit|Defaults", or by hitting Ctrl-D.

Anything set in these fields will be used to populate new files when they're created. If a field is left blank, the corresponding header data will be blank when a race is created.

It's suggested this is filled in when the software is first started, but realistically the basics of the header tab are all that's needed.

[[image:NatFIS_Defaults.jpg‎|center]]

A [[Keys & Licenses|key and license]] is needed to change the default setting for governing body, governing body abbreviation, and country to anything other than USA and Canada.

The "Factors/Lists" and "Officials" tabs are explained more fully in the sections detailing these fields within a race file (see [[National FIS Software : Factors Lists|factors/lists]] and [[National FIS Software : Officials|officials]]). The items on these tabs are applicable mainly to alpine events.