FAT Timer
Fully Automatic Race Timing
About
Transform your iPad into a professional race timing system. Record races in high-speed slow-motion, precisely mark athlete finish times frame-by-frame, and seamlessly export results to your RaceApp.net meets. Ideal for track and field, cross country, and swimming.
What's New in FAT Timer
1.3.0
May 20, 2026
**Live mid-race review** — scrub back through earlier finishes and place marks while the race is still recording. Recorder and reviewer iPads stay in sync. **Multi-iPad backup recording** — pair two or more iPads on the same race for redundant camera angles. Switch between views during review; drag panes to rearrange. **Bib-number marking** — assign athletes to marks by bib number with automatic name lookup, alongside or instead of lane assignment. Per-race mark mode (Lanes / Bibs / None) persists. **Spectator timer screen** — open the iPad's `/timer` URL on any device on the local network to show a live race clock plus provisional results. Times now display naturally ("10.12" instead of "00:10.12") for sub-minute races. **Laptop archive download + offline review** — pull a race archive to your laptop and review it in the browser without keeping the iPad nearby. **Smoother video review** — triple-buffered primary video for flicker-free frame stepping across segments. Frame-accurate marks at 60, 120, or 200 fps. Configurable arrow-key scrub speed (default 1.5×). **Reliability fixes** — single-source-of-truth race files for consistent state across review, export, and live mode. Robust chunk rollover for long live recordings. Lane-color bracelets in the assign UI. Backup audio capture of the starting sound. Larger LISTENING banner while waiting for the gun.
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FAQ
What is FAT Timer?
FAT Timer is a mobile application that transforms your iPad into a Fully Automatic Timing (FAT) system for sporting events. It allows you to record races in slow-motion and precisely mark athlete finish times.
How does FAT Timer work?
You mount your iPad with a clear view of the finish line, start recording, and then mark each athlete's finish time frame-by-frame. Results can be exported directly to RaceApp.net.
What devices is FAT Timer compatible with?
FAT Timer is compatible with iPhone and iPad devices running iOS 18 or later. An iPad is recommended for its larger display.
Can I use FAT Timer for free?
Yes, recording, marking finish times, and exporting up to 3 results per race are completely free. Unlimited results require a subscription.
What are the limitations of the free version of FAT Timer?
The free version of FAT Timer allows you to record, mark times, and export up to 3 results per race. For unlimited exports, a subscription is necessary.
Does FAT Timer have ads?
No, FAT Timer does not contain advertisements. The app is free to use with optional in-app purchases for expanded features.
How precise is the timing with FAT Timer?
FAT Timer can record at up to 240fps, providing approximately 4ms timing precision. This allows for very accurate marking of finish times.
Can multiple people use FAT Timer at a busy meet?
Yes, FAT Timer supports a multi-person workflow. One person can operate the camera while others review video and mark finish times from any device on the same network.