For anyone involved in running powerlifting or weightlifting competitions I've developed 'Ref Lights' - a simple system for displaying the traditional three-ref lights signalling 'good-lift' or 'no-lift' on a video screen attached to a PC.
The program is in an HTML file which you run in a Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge browser. Each ref signals their decision by pressing a button on a box or on their smartphone. The signals are then sent to a controller box which is plugged into a USB port on the PC.
There's also an option for displaying the red, blue or yellow infraction cards used in competitions that follow the IPF rules. A timer can also be displayed on the screen, allowing countdown times between 1 and 30 minutes.
There are now three versions of Ref Lights. They all use the same HTML file and Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge browsers are supported.
Wireless Version
The system comprises three wireless hand-held units and a USB controller unit. Rechargeable batteries for the hand-helds are included, together with a suitable charger. Batteries last at least three full days of normal competition use on a single charge. Two-way radio communication between the hand-helds and the controller enhances reliability and six wireless channels are selectable to minimise the likelihood of radio frequency interference causing issues at some sites.
WiFi Version
The WiFi version consists of a single controller unit. Rather than using custom-made ref boxes, referees enter their decisions on a keypad displayed in a browser on their smartphones (see inset in picture above). The controller unit acts as a WiFi access point and referees must connect their phones to the Ref Lights WiFi. Then, from their browser, they choose which position they're going to be reffing from and use the keypad to signal their decisions.
Because there are no batteries, charger or custom-made ref boxes, the WiFi version is a much cheaper alternative to the wireless version.
Cable Version
The cable version was my first design and I'm no longer making them. However, I can provide guidelines for building your own. Ref boxes are connected by physical cables to a USB controller unit.
Demonstrations
Does Ref Lights run on-line or off-line?Off-line is recommended but, if you don't want to download any files, you can run Ref Lights on-line from this link: ref-lights.html When you run it on-line, bear in mind that you won't be able to access the link when the web site is down; you'll only be able to use the sample banner and custom lights files that are on-line, and that you can't store your favourite configuration in a file. However, if you have cookies allowed in your browser, it will try to remember the last configuration you used on the same computer. If you download the files and run Ref Lights off-line, you won't have to rely on an Internet connection to use them. You'll also be able to save your favourite options in a file and use your own banner and custom files. Stuff you can download
* This document is in two parts: (1) General operating instructions applying to wired or wireless Ref Lights used with version 4.2.1 or later of the HTML file (2) More technical information applicable from version 19 of the wireless firmware, although most of it also applies to earlier wireless versions. How to get Ref LightsThese are hand made to order. For more information or to order a system, click on my name at the foot of this page to send me an email. FAQ |
NEW! Release of WiFi version (September 2023)The only item required to purchase is the WiFi controller, making this the cheapest option. Wireless Firmware Update (version 19)Ref box and controller firmware in the wireless version has been updated in systems built from January 2023. Improvements include: Longer battery life between charging, greater usable distance between ref boxes and controller, and faster start-up time for ref boxes. Contact me if you would like to have the firmware in an older system updated. Recent HTML file revisions
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