FAQs
1. What is Flagtronics and what products do you offer?
Flagtronics specializes in electronic flagging systems for motorsports. Our primary products include the FT200 and FT-RD in-car kits, designed to provide real-time flagging conditions directly to drivers. These systems enhance safety by integrating with trackside controllers and providing real-time flag condition updates to drivers on the track. We also offer trackside lighting kits and software solutions for race control.
2. What is the FT200 In-Car Kit?
The FT200 In-Car Kit is a standalone system that includes an FT200 display unit, GPS antenna, and wiring harness. It’s designed for easy installation and delivers critical flagging information to the driver in real-time. The FT200 works independently of the vehicle’s electronics, making it suitable for older cars that don’t have a CAN bus or onboard computer systems. A wiring harness with an included CAN Bus connector can be added for $10. The kit is available for $249.99 on our Racers page.
3. What is the FT-RD In-Car Kit?
The FT-RD Kit includes the FT-RD remote display, FT-RCV receiver module, and GPS antenna. It is designed specifically for vehicles with tight cockpits, such as formula cars, and offers CAN bus integration for enhanced data tracking. The FT-RD is compact and can be installed in areas with limited space, requiring approximately 1 inch by 3 inches of flat surface space. The kit is available for $549.99 on our Racers page (currently only available to SCCA racers).
4. Do the Flagtronics devices require a subscription?
No, the Flagtronics FT200 and FT-RD devices do not require a subscription to function. Our systems are designed to operate independently without any recurring fees. We have committed to not charging annual license fees to ensure accessibility and safety for all drivers and series.
5. How do the FT200 and FT-RD devices connect to a CAN bus?
Our devices can be integrated into your vehicle’s CAN bus system using the Flagtronics CAN bus harness ($10 option on FT200 Kits), which is a custom-built wiring assembly. It allows the devices to communicate with digital dashboards, such as AIM or Motec, to display flagging conditions directly to the driver.
6. Should the USB plug on the wiring harness for FT200 and FT-RD kits be easily accessible once installed?
Yes, it’s important to ensure that the USB plug at the end of the wiring harness for both the FT200 and FT-RD kits is easily accessible. This will allow for convenient software and firmware updates in the future, which are necessary to keep your system running with the latest features and improvements.
7. How much power do the FT200 and FT-RD devices draw?
At maximum brightness, the FT200 and FT-RD devices draw no more than 10W, which translates to 0.9A on 12V power or 2.0A on 5V USB power. Both devices can be powered via a 12V bare wire connection or a 5V USB adapter.
8. What does “see the sky” mean in reference to the GPS antenna?
For the GPS antenna to function correctly, it must have a clear view of the sky. This means it should be installed in a location without metal obstructions, such as a car roof or dashboard. Fiberglass and windshields are acceptable for the antenna to “see” the sky, but carbon fiber and metal surfaces can block the signal.
9. Do you offer volume discounts or prep shop pricing?
Due to price lock agreements with several series, we are unable to offer volume discounts or special pricing for prep shops. This ensures consistent pricing for all customers, whether they are purchasing one device or several.
10. How long does it take to receive an FT200 or FT-RD Kit?
Shipping for the FT200 and FT-RD Kits typically takes 2-3 days. Orders can be placed directly on our Racers page, and our support team is available to assist with any questions during the ordering process.
11. Can I install the FT200 or FT-RD Kit myself?
Yes, both the FT200 and FT-RD kits are designed for straightforward installation. Basic tools are all that’s needed, and each kit comes with a detailed manual to guide you through the process. You can access the FT200/FT-RD Kits Product Manual here.
12. What are your future plans for Flagtronics products?
We are continuously innovating our product lineup. In the near future, we plan to release GPS-based timing and scoring solutions, enhanced race control software features, new hardware designed for specific racing environments and automated Driver ID detection and reporting.