Optojump is an optical acquisition system, developed to measure with 1/1000^th sec. precision all flying and ground-contact times while performing a sequence of jumps. OptoJump consists of two bars (size 39.4 x 1.2 x 1.6 in.), one containing the reception and control unit, the other embedding the transmission electronics. Several elements can be connected together in order to change the length of the tracks as the need occurs.

When installed as a single device, OptoJump acquires all flying and ground contact times while performing a sequence of jumps.

By means of a powerful, easy-to-use software, OptoJump allows the survey of data concerning : dynamic power, elastic strength and resistance, peak and average power, dissipated energy, reaction time to an optical and/or acoustical signal. Without the need of more complicated and "obtrusive" tests, it is possible to elaborate many parameters necessary for the correct characterisation of the athlete.

While performing the tests the software program displays graphically the acquired data, which can be stored for further elaboration and can be displayed both numerically and graphically.

The management of the athletes’ personal database, the possibility of printing data with reference to particular training periods, and other useful features (up to 110 different printouts can be obtained) make the OptoJump software a powerful analysis tool for every trainer, without requiring any computer skills.

OptoJump can be easily installed by placing the two bars on the ground, one in front of the other (a green led confirms the correct alignment), and connecting the device to the serial port of any PC (there is no need of any interface card). The bars can be positioned at a distance of up to 13 ft.

The "field application" of the single unit is extremely easy thanks to :

• built-in rechargeable batteries (more than 6 hours of stand-alone operations)
• possibility to be connected to the RACETIME 2 hand-held Timing System

This configuration allows the acquisition of all data even under extreme conditions and without needing a PC. All tests can be directly printed by Microgate RACETIME 2 and can be subsequently transferred to a PC through the serial port.

OptoJump "linear system" is the only existing device that provides a detailed real-time analysis of athletes performances during the execution of a sprint on long running tracks. When compared to other acquisition systems - like high speed cameras - that need complex and demanding post-processing, OptoJump offers many advantages:

• prompt evaluation of the acquired data
• simple use
• easy installation (more than 300 ft. Can be quickly installed by one person alone)
• zero maintenance costs
• one trainer alone can acquire, manage and print all data concerning stretches longer than 300 ft.

Like the "single" system, also the "modular" system features simplicity and easy installation. To obtain measurement tracks of several feet is sufficient to connect the instrument bars by means of the special connectors. The start- and stop signals can be generated by any external trigger, like a starting gun or a photocell.

The modular system can measure in real time following data:

• step length and their position along the track
• flying and ground contact times of the foot during the run
• local and average speed and acceleration
• overall time

In the rehabilitation field, the modular system allows the bidimensional monitoring of the position of patience’s feet while walking.

The same software program of OptoJump "single unit" controls also the "modular" system, featuring the same versatility and user-friendly interface.

Flying and ground-contact times are acquired in real-time. Immediately after completing the tests, OptoJump sends all data concerning steps position to the personal computer for all subsequent numerical and graphical elaboration.