LapTimer v16.5 introduced a quality rating for track sets available in "Tracks". This quality rating reflects the formal quality a track set defined shows. Elements rated are:
- Existence of triggers (there needs to be at least one trigger that starts and one the stops - or a stop / go trigger combining this actions).
- A driving direction given for the triggers (LapTimer will use this information not only for display, but for trigger detection starting in version 17).
- A label position information allowing LapTimer to place POI labels in a position they do not intersect with the track.
- Additional POIs (inactive) for bends and other items of interest (they are used e.g. for Video overlay inserts).
- Explicit descriptions for each trigger (e.g. "Split 3").
- Up to 8 split triggers (1-4 preferred, a typical GP track should have 2 or 3).
The reason I tighten the policies is mainly user experience. Any track set available in LapTimer is downloaded multiple times, and by many many users. A user downloading a track set will expect it to work - as it is certified. The above formal checking is not good enough to make sure the track set works, but it is a good indicator things are fine.
As I appreciate any submission a lot, and I'm aware it is not an easy task, I will certainly help were ever I can. So in case you have a problem getting the stars shine, drop me a note and we will check what is going on.
Even with your kind help, adding a track set is a lot of work. I need to paint a track shape and add multiple items to the track description to make it work. So besides the above quality rating, add a good textual description of the track to the mail generated during certification, and add the configuration's length when ever possible. These items are hard to find out from remote - especially as track submissions have shifted to smaller ones some time ago (the tracks database is pretty complete today).
Thanks for your understanding and support. LapTimer's tracks database is a jewel/gem already, let's make it even better.
- Harry