ArenaGear Sports Timer
RM-510 Wristband Reader
USER MANUAL
ArenaGear
www.ArenaGear.net
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The RM-510 Wristband Reader is an NFC (Near Field Communication) scanning device that automatically identifies athletes at the start gate. When an athlete scans their wristband at the reader, their name is instantly transmitted to your phone or iPad app and linked to the time recorded by the RM-510 Start Gate timer. This eliminates manual athlete entry and ensures accurate time recording for each participant in your TEAMS cloud database.
The Wristband Reader works wirelessly with the ArenaGear app and integrates seamlessly with your existing RM-510 timing system, updating both your device and your cloud-based TEAMS Athlete Management System (AMS) in real-time.
Important Note:** iPads and Android tablets do not have built-in NFC communication capability. However, the RM-510 Wristband Reader uses Bluetooth technology to communicate with the ArenaGear app, which gives iPads and Android tablets full functionality and compatibility with this system. iPhones, Android phones, iPads, and Android tablets can all be used interchangeably.
GETTING STARTED - WHAT YOU NEED
· RM-510 Wristband Reader
· Tripod (included)
· **ArenaGear Wristbands** (silicone or 1-day disposable with embedded NFC tags)
· RM-510 Start Gate (paired and operational)
· iPhone or iPad with ArenaGear app installed (iOS)
· Or Android phone or tablet with ArenaGear app installed (Android)
· **WiFi or cell service** (recommended but not required*)
*WiFi or cell service is needed only to connect to the TEAMS AMS in real-time. If no WiFi or cell service is available at your event location, the data is stored locally in the app. All scan data and times will be automatically synced to the TEAMS cloud server next time you open the app in an area with data coverage.
Note:** The wristband reader only works with ArenaGear-branded wristbands. Standard NFC wristbands from other manufacturers are not compatible with this system.
1. Remove the Wristband Reader from its case
2. Attach the mounting bracket to your tripod (standard tripod thread)
3. Spread the tripod legs completely and ensure stable positioning
4. Position the reader at hip height or wrist height (when the athlete’s arm is relaxed at the side)
5. Place the reader next to or before your RM-510 Start Gate
The reader should be positioned so that athletes can naturally extend their arm or lower their wrist to scan without reaching or bending awkwardly.
This is a one-time procedure that links the reader to your specific Start Gate test station.
6. Power OFF all devices:
7. Power ON only the gray Start Gate and the Wristband Reader (leave all other devices off)
8. Position the Wristband Reader within 1 inch of the Start Gate
9. Watch the yellow lights on both devices
10. Wait for the yellow lights to slow down and synchronize in unison
11. When the lights are blinking slowly and in sync, pairing is complete
You only need to do this pairing procedure once. The Wristband Reader will remain linked to this Start Gate until you change the pairing to a different test station. Once pairing is complete, you can power on your other devices as needed.
12. Power ON the Wristband Reader
13. Watch the yellow light on the reader
14. Start the ArenaGear app on your phone or iPad, select your Timer
15. Let the app communicate with the reader
16. Watch the red light on the reader
Do not attempt to scan wristbands until the red light is OFF. The reader is connected and ready.
Before athletes begin, their wristbands must be registered in your TEAMS database. Participants can be added in two ways:
17. In the ArenaGear app, go to PARTICIPANTS
18. Add each athlete to your event roster
19. Each participant will receive or be assigned an NFC wristband with a unique ID
20. Log in to your TEAMS account on the web
21. Go to Manage Classes, add a class, and upload your roster as a csv file with this format:
|
name,personalUniqueId,number John Smith,JS001,1 |
|
|
22. Once athletes are on the roster, locate each participant's name in the list
23. Tap on the wristband icon next to the athlete's name
24. Tap the wristband with your phone to write the participant information into the wristband memory
Silicone Wristbands:
- Can be assigned once per day
- To reassign a silicone wristband to a different participant, wait until the next calendar day
Disposable Wristbands:
- Can be assigned multiple times throughout the day, up to 10 times. Useful when rosters change before the event.
- Once a disposable wristband is scanned by the phone or at the start gate, it becomes locked and assignments are no longer possible.
- A locked disposable wristband expires at midnight on the same day it was first scanned.
25. The wristband ID is now linked to the participant's name in your TEAMS account
The wristband ID and participant name must match in your database for the system to work correctly. Your event administrator or TEAMS account manager can provide pre-registered wristbands, or you can assign new wristbands during event setup.
26. Place the Wristband Reader on its tripod near your RM-510 Start Gate
27. The reader is typically positioned before the start gate so participants can scan their wristbands just before beginning their run
28. Position it at a convenient height for athletes (usually hip height or wrist height when the athlete’s arm is relaxed)
29. Ensure the reader is stable and won't be knocked over by athletes
30. Position it to the side of the athlete's running path to avoid interference
The reader can be placed at any distance from the Start Gate—it communicates through your app and TEAMS cloud database, so proximity is not critical for operation.
The Wristband Reader has a scanning range of about 1/2 inch. For successful scans:
31. Hold the wristband approximately 1/2 inch away from the reader face
32. Align the wristband logo with the center of the concentric circles on the scanner face
33. The wristband should be positioned so the NFC chip directly faces the reader, the chip is in the middle of the ArenaGear logo
34. Hold steady for about 1 second until you hear the confirmation beep
Beep Codes:
· One beep/green light = Successful scan. Wristband is recognized and linked to a participant.
· Three beeps/red light = Wristband not assigned or wristband has expired.
If a scan doesn't register:
· Check that the wristband logo is aligned with the center of the concentric circles
· Adjust the distance to approximately 1/2 inch
· Ensure the wristband is facing the correct direction
· Try a different wristband to rule out a damaged tag
USING THE WRISTBAND READER - WORKFLOW
When a wristband is scanned at the reader, all phones and tablets logged into the same TEAMS account* are instantly updated to display the next participant. This ensures all staff members see the same participant information in real-time, improving coordination across your event. *Wi-Fi or data connectivity required
35. Athlete approaches the start gate area
36. Athlete scans their wristband on the Wristband Reader
37. The reader beeps (short beep + green light = successful scan)
38. The app instantly displays the athlete's name and gives a short haptic buzz
39. Athlete is now ready to begin
40. Athlete runs through the RM-510 Start Gate
41. The timer records the run duration
42. The system automatically links this time to the athlete's name (already identified by the wristband scan)
43. Data is recorded on both your phone/iPad and your TEAMS cloud database simultaneously. Results are also shown on the real-time leaderboard of the selected event
44. Results appear in your app with athlete name and time
45. Data syncs to TEAMS AMS automatically
46. Results are available for viewing and exporting
SCANNING THE WRISTBAND
For Best Results:
· Position the wristband approximately 1/2 inch from the reader face
· Align the wristband logo with the center of the concentric circles on the scanner
· The NFC chip should face directly toward the reader
· Hold steady for about 1 second until you hear the confirmation beep
· You'll see a confirmation message on your app when the scan is successful
Scanning Tips:
· The 1/2 inch distance is important—too far will result on a failed scan
· Make sure the wristband logo is centered on the concentric circles
· Hold for about 1 second; listen for the beep to confirm scan result
· One beep = successful scan; three beeps = wristband not assigned or expired
· If you hear three beeps, verify the wristband is assigned to the participant and not expired. Try a different wristband if available.
· If an athlete forgets their wristband, you can manually assign them a new one from the participant screen
· Athletes can pre-scan at the start of your event to verify their wristbands are working
CONNECTING TO YOUR PHONE/IPAD
WiFi Connection (Recommended for events):
47. Ensure your phone/iPad is connected to a stable WiFi network
48. The Wristband Reader will automatically connect when powered on and in range to its assigned Start gate. You need to run the app on your phone and select the Start gate, then wait for the red light to turn off.
49. When WiFi is available, data syncs instantly to TEAMS AMS. A phone must be running the app and connected to the Start Gate to capture data; the wristband scanner cannot transfer data without a phone.
TROUBLESHOOTING
"Wristband not scanning"
· Check that the wristband is approximately 1/2 inch from the reader face
· Align the wristband logo with the center of the concentric circles on the scanner
· Ensure the wristband is facing the correct direction (NFC chip toward reader) – you can see the antenna loops under the logo on the underside of the band.
· If you hear three beeps, the wristband may not have been assigned to a participant or it may be expired. Use your phone to erify the wristband is assigned and has not expired.
· Try a different wristband to rule out a damaged or expired tag
· Restart the app and try again
"Reader not connecting to app"
· Check that Bluetooth is enabled on your phone/iPad
· Make sure the reader is powered on (check indicator light)
· Restart the ArenaGear app
· Replace the batteries with a new set. Always change all the batteries at the same time.
"Athlete's name not appearing in app after scan"
· Verify the wristband is registered to that athlete (use your phone to scan the wristband)
· Check that the scanner is linked to the correct Start gate. Look at the yellow lights on the scanner and the S gate, they should be synchronized exactly
· Ensure you are logged in to your TEAMS account (not in guest mode)
· Try scanning the wristband again
· If issue persists, manually select the athlete's name in the app
"Delayed or missing data in TEAMS AMS or the leaderboard”
· Check your WiFi connection strength
· Ensure you have an active internet connection
· Ensure you are logged in to your TEAMS account (not in guest mode)
· Wait 30 seconds for data to sync to the cloud
"Wristband Reader won't power on"
·
Make sure the batteries are working; replace
them if needed.
·
Check that the power switch is functioning
properly.
·
The reader is not waterproof. Rain or water damage
is not be covered by the warranty.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Daily Care:
· Wipe the reader face with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or debris
· Do not expose the reader to water or wet conditions
· Keep the reader in a protective case when not in use
Battery Maintenance:
· Remove the batteries if the device will not be used for more than a few weeks. Alkaline batteries can leak and cause significant corrosion.
Storage:
· Store in a cool, dry location
· Keep away from direct sunlight
· Do not expose to extreme temperatures (below 0°F or above 120°F)
· Store in the protective case provided
Durability:
· The reader is designed for outdoor arena use
· Do not submerge in water or expose to heavy rain
· If exposed to water, dry immediately and allow to air dry completely before use
SPECIFICATIONS
Device Type: NFC Reader with Wireless Communication
Scanning Technology: Near Field Communication (NFC)
Connectivity: Bluetooth and WiFi
Scanning Range: 1/2 inch (approximately 1.3 cm)
Bluetooth Range: Up to 100 feet
WiFi Range: Varies by network
Battery: 2xAA high quality Alkaline only
Battery Life: 40 hours
Operating Temperature: -67°F to 257°F (-55°C to 125°C)
Storage Temperature: -67°F to 257°F (-55°C to 125°C)
Housing: Durable plastic, dust and splash resistant
Weight: 0.5 lbs (230 grams)
Mounting: Standard tripod thread (1/4")
Compatible Equipment:
· RM-510 Start Gate
· RM-510 Finish Gate
· RM-510 Hand Gate
· RM-501 Timers
· All ArenaGear app versions (iOS and Android)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Can I use the Wristband Reader without a Start Gate?
A: No, The reader works independently to identify athletes. However, for it to be useful, you need a timer (Start Gate, Finish Gate, or Hand Gate) to capture times that will be linked to the identified athlete.
Q: What if an athlete's wristband doesn't work or is lost?
A: You can assign a new wristband to the athlete, go to the Participant screen and tap the wristband icon
Q: How many athletes can I register?
A: Your TEAMS account can register as many participants as needed. Check with your account settings for participant limits.
Q: Can I use multiple RM-510 systems and readers at the same event?
A: Yes. Each reader is paired to a specific RM-510 system, allowing multiple test stations to operate at the same event, with each station using its own wristband reader.
Q: Does the wristband need to be charged?
A: No. NFC wristbands are passive—they don't require batteries. They work through radio frequency energy from the reader.
Q: Can I scan multiple wristbands one after another?
A: Yes. For best performance, wait about 1 second between scans. The app will update the Next Participant field to the name stored on the wristband and provide a haptic buzz, do this to confirm wristband assignments.
Q: Is the reader waterproof?
A: No, but you can place it in a Ziplock bag to make it so.
GETTING HELP
For additional support, visit:
www.ArenaGear.net/help
Or contact ArenaGear support:
support@arenagear.com
Version 1.0
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