---
title: "RapidCam Detailed Info"
categories: [rapidcam]
updated: 2025-10-16
---
RapidCam is a relatively new entry into the photo-finish market designed to offer a much more affordable photo-finish camera than what is currently available on the market. Compared to the existing photo-finish products, RapidCam can produce better quality images, has a much simpler “full frame live-view set-up”, easier operation and a much lower price.

## Specifications

-   Generates full colour line scan images with a 2592 vertical pixel resolution.
-   Can be operated from 500 frames-per-second (1925 micro-second exposure) to 2287 frames-per-second (360 micro-second exposure).
-   Exposure can be reduced at 2287 frames-per-second from 360 micro-seconds to 80 micro-seconds.
-   Uses 48V Power-over-Ethernet for both power and data so only a single Ethernet cables needs to be run to the camera.

## Advantages

-   The images are more photo realistic.
-   The images are not as susceptible to ‘blow-out’ due to rapidly changing light conditions.
-   The Full Frame live view Configuration Mode makes setup much easier as it provides a video like feed of the whole finish line area. This makes it much easier to set the camera zoom and focus compared to looking at just a line-scan image.
-   In the software the finish line can be digitally moved in the X axis to line up with the finish outside. The pitch and yaw axis still need to be set mechanically, but having one axis digitally controlled is a time saver.
-   Having a software configurable ‘auto-motion’ zone is great to control which area you want to auto-capture images from is a very nice feature.

## What’s Included

-   RapidCam photo-finish camera
-   [Computar T3Z0312CS-MPIR](https://computarganz.s3.amazonaws.com/Computar+Active+Resources/T3Z0312CS-MPIR_0809.pdf), [Computar A3Z2812CS-MPWIR](https://computarganz.s3.amazonaws.com/Computar+Active+Resources/A3Z2812CS_MPWIR+spec.pdf) or [Computar A4Z2812CS-MPIR](https://computarganz.s3.amazonaws.com/Computar+Active+Resources/A4Z2812CS-MPIR+spec.pdf) lens
-   48V Power-over-Ethernet injector
-   a couple Ethernet cables
-   high-quality powder-coated aluminium weather shield
-   all fits inside a [Pelican iM2200](https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/storm/im2200) case with custom foam insert
-   RapidCam capture and tagging software

## Recommended Accessories

A mounting system for the camera is not incuded however the following is recommended for mobile set-ups. They are a bit pricey but the geared-head is awesome.

-   large tripod for track-side installation: [Manfrotto 2m/7ft Tripod](https://www.manfrotto.com/global/058b-triaut-camera-tripod-black-058b/)
-   geared head for easy adjustment: [Manfrotto Junior Geared Head](https://www.manfrotto.com/global/410-junior-geared-tripod-head-easy-to-use-ergonomic-knobs-410/)
-   zoom lens when further away from the track: [Computar A4Z1214CS-MPIR](https://computarganz.s3.amazonaws.com/Computar+Active+Resources/A4Z1214CS-MPIR+spec.pdf) or [Computar A6Z8516CS-MP](https://computarganz.s3.amazonaws.com/Computar+Active+Resources/A6Z8516CS-MP+spec.pdf) lens

## Software

-   Easy-to-use camera configuration interface that uses the full 4:3 sensor instead-of a single line. This means the camera only needs to be straight, the actual finish line location on the sensor can be selected in the software.
-   Zero-configuration motion detection algorithm that detects frames that contain motion. This means one click to start recording and that’s it, no buttons to push, no extra hardware to set-up, etc… Can be overridden or turned off.
-   Image viewing and tagging interface. Tagged bibs and times can be viewed on-screen or exported. We are open to building custom export features.
-   Limited racer management and results features.
-   Integration with Zone4’s existing race timing software.
-   Data output for integration to other systems (open to customization and tweaks).
-   Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux).