Photogates for the Right Angler, Popsicle Dragster, Ramp Climber and Tube Competitions

The timing of moving objects for these competitions require two photogates that once triggered can no longer start or stop the timing process. The objects may have gaps in their structure that could cause multiple start and stop triggering of the timing. Photogate computer software available from companies such as Pasco or Vernier can be programmed to no longer search for a particular photogate once it has been initially blocked.  We make use of a Vernier LabQuest Mini data acquisition interface connected to a laptop.  The two photogates are mounted on a large portable frameworks that can accomodate various types of objects passing through the frameworks.  The photogates can be seen by watching the video of past competitions.