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Frequently asked questions
Buying, owning and running RaceAmerica equipment. If your question is technical rather than commercial, the knowledge base goes deeper.
Quotes, pricing and how an order works.
Buying
Why can't I buy directly from the website?
Because every system we sell is specified against a facility. Track length, lane count, where the tower sits, whether there is conduit down the track, what you already own - all of it changes what you need. A self-service order would arrive needing to be unpicked, so the path is a quote instead. Tell us about your track and we will spec it and price it, usually within one business day.
How do I get a price?
Use the quote form, or call us. If a package is close to what you want, name it and say what you would change - we will adjust quantities, swap components and send a final figure including shipping.
Are the package prices on the site final?
They are the base configuration price for exactly the parts listed. Final quotes include shipping and are subject to dealer discounts, and most packages get adjusted at least a little - a different scoreboard size, an extra split, install included.
Do you sell through dealers?
Yes, and dealer pricing applies to package prices shown on the site. Contact us for dealer arrangements in your region.
Can I buy a single component rather than a system?
Yes. Individual sensors, emitters, cables, antennas, batteries, cases and spares are all available. The product pages carry the detail; request a quote with the model numbers you need.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Equipment is available in 110VAC and 230VAC configurations, and wireless equipment is supplied for the frequency allocation of the destination. Tell us the country when you request a quote so the right variant is specified.
What works with what.
Systems and compatibility
Will new equipment work with the system I already own?
Usually. The XL line shares track electronics, scoreboards and software hooks across the range, so adding splits, scoreboards, win lights or dial-in boards to an existing console is generally additive rather than a replacement. Where it gets less certain is a change of console family - tell us what you have and what you want to add, and we will confirm before you buy.
Do I need a PC to run an event?
No. Every timing console times the run, drives the tree and prints a timeslip on its own, and a night can be run entirely from the keypad. A PC adds registration, ladders, standings and published results, which is why programs with classes and eliminations tend to want one and test-and-tune sessions do not.
Is your timing equipment NHRA approved?
RaceAmerica XL timing systems meet NHRA national-event standards. Sanctioning requirements change, so contact us to confirm current certification for your specific event.
Can I run 1/8 mile and 1/4 mile on the same system?
Yes. The console and track electronics handle both. What usually changes with distance is scoreboard size - bigger digits for a longer strip - and which splits you fit, with 1000ft being the one that matters for 1/4 mile.
Does your equipment work with other manufacturers' systems?
In places, yes. Several of our LED displays accept data from third-party timing software and systems, and our scoreboards are compatible with RaceAmerica, Portatree and Compulink drag timing. If you are mixing equipment, tell us what is already installed and we will confirm what talks to what.
Licensing, platforms and trying before you buy.
Software
Can I get a demo of the software before purchasing?
Yes. RA Command AutoCross includes a built-in timer simulator that runs a full mock event with no hardware connected, so you can train staff or evaluate it on a laptop. RA Monitor has a Simulate Run mode that does the same thing. For a guided walkthrough of any of our software, contact our sales team.
What does the software run on?
Windows 10 or 11, installed and running locally. You supply the PC. Nothing requires a cloud account, and nothing needs an internet connection at the venue - which matters at a track where connectivity is not a given.
How is the software licensed?
RA Monitor is a one-time activation per PC: copy your machine ID, send it to us, paste the key back, and you are not asked again. Race management software is licensed per installation. Live timing, where you want results published online, is a separate subscription - annually or as an event bundle.
Do I need internet at the track?
No. The applications run entirely on site and store event data in a local database on the machine. Internet is only needed if you want to publish results online.
What happened to XLscore?
RA Command Drag (3128C) is its successor and is what current drag packages ship with. XLscore PRO, II and ADV are still listed and still supported for the systems already running them.
Getting a system in and getting staff up to speed.
Installation and training
Do you offer on-site installation?
Yes. On-site installation, commissioning and staff training are available for new deployments, quoted per site visit. On professional installations it is normally quoted with the system rather than left as an afterthought.
Do I need to trench cable around my track?
Usually not. Wireless track electronics report to the console over the T-Link link, and lights and displays run on battery or mains, so a first installation does not require conduit. Hardwired communication is supported where the conduit already exists or where a permanent installation is preferred.
How long does an installation take?
A portable system is a set-up rather than an installation - out of the cases and timing the same day. A permanent installation depends on cable runs, mounting and power at each position, and is worth a site conversation before anyone commits to a date.
Is training included?
RA Command Drag includes a one hour remote training session. On-site training is available with an installation, and the software simulators let you train operators before the equipment is even unpacked.
When something needs attention.
Support and service
What are your support hours?
Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time. On race weekends, emergency support is available by phone for active customers with a support agreement.
What is the warranty on RaceAmerica products?
All RaceAmerica hardware carries a standard one-year warranty from the date of purchase. Extended warranty service to 12 months is available for timing systems and scoreboards, and longer service agreements can be arranged for facilities that need them.
Something has stopped working. What should I do first?
Call before shipping anything. A good proportion of what looks like a hardware fault turns out to be alignment, power or a setting, and that is a phone call rather than a shipping cost. Have your model numbers ready - they are on the label on each unit.
Where can I find product manuals?
On the manuals page, grouped by what they are for and free to download. If you need a manual for an older or discontinued product, contact support and we will send it - we keep them.
How do I update my timing system firmware?
Download the latest firmware, connect the console, and run the update tool. Step-by-step instructions are included with each download. If you are unsure which firmware your console is running, support can tell you how to check before you start.
Can I get parts for older equipment?
Often, yes. Sensors, emitters, cables, batteries and stands are common across generations, and we support equipment long after it stops being sold. Tell us the model number and we will tell you honestly whether it is still serviceable.
Still have a question?
Anything not answered here, ask us directly. Our support team is on the phone Monday to Friday and has usually seen the problem before.