System Requirements for RUFUS Race Manager

Before you begin using RUFUS Race Manager (RRM), it's important to ensure that your hardware and network infrastructure meet the necessary requirements. This guide outlines the minimum and recommended system specifications for both the web version and the local Windows application. Additionally, it provides suggestions for network equipment to optimize performance and reliability during your race events.

Minimum and Recommended PC Requirements

RUFUS Race Manager is built on advanced technologies such as React, Node.js, Electron, and utilizes MongoDB Atlas along with AWS services. These technologies provide a robust and scalable platform but also have specific hardware requirements to function optimally.

Hardware Specifications

Minimum Requirements

• Processor: Dual-core CPU (Intel Core i3 or equivalent)

• Memory (RAM): 8 GB

• Storage: 2 GB of available disk space

• Graphics: Integrated graphics capable of 1024x768 resolution

• Network Interface: Ethernet port or Wi-Fi adapter

• USB Ports: At least one available USB port

Recommended Requirements

• Processor: Quad-core CPU (Intel Core i5 or equivalent)

• Memory (RAM): 16 GB or more

• Storage: 5 GB of available disk space (SSD preferred for faster performance)

• Graphics: Dedicated graphics card supporting higher resolutions

• Network Interface: Gigabit Ethernet port and dual-band Wi-Fi adapter

• USB Ports: Multiple USB 3.0 ports for peripherals

Operating Systems

Windows Application

• Minimum OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)

• Recommended OS: Windows 11 (64-bit)

Note: While RRM may run on Windows 7 or 8, these operating systems are outdated and no longer supported by Microsoft, which may pose security risks and compatibility issues.

Web Version

• Supported Browsers: Latest versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge

• Operating Systems: Windows 10/11, macOS Catalina or later, Linux distributions (Ubuntu 18.04 or later)

Note: The Mac version of RRM is coming soon. In the meantime, Mac users can access the web version using a compatible browser.

Network Equipment Recommendations

A reliable network is crucial for seamless communication between RRM and your timing devices. The right routers and switches can significantly enhance data transmission speed and reliability.

Routers

Minimum Requirements

• Standards: Supports IEEE 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4)

• Frequency Bands: 2.4 GHz

• Ethernet Ports: 10/100 Mbps ports

• Features: Basic firewall and security settings

Recommended Routers

• Standards: Supports IEEE 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6)

• Frequency Bands: Dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

• Ethernet Ports: Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps)

• Features:

  • Advanced Quality of Service (QoS) settings

  • Multiple SSIDs and guest network support

  • Robust security features (WPA3 encryption)

  • MU-MIMO and beamforming technologies for better wireless performance

Suggested Models:

• Mid-Range:

  • TP-Link Archer AX20

  • Netgear Nighthawk R7000

• High-End:

  • ASUS RT-AX88U

  • Linksys MX5 Velop AX Whole Home Wi-Fi 6 System

Switches

Minimum Requirements

• Type: Unmanaged switch

• Ports: At least 8 x 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports

• Features: Plug-and-play functionality

Recommended Switches

• Type: Managed Gigabit switch

• Ports: 16 or more Gigabit Ethernet ports

• Features:

  • VLAN support for network segmentation

  • QoS prioritization

  • Link aggregation for increased bandwidth

  • Energy-efficient design

Suggested Models:

• Mid-Range:

  • Netgear GS316 (Unmanaged)

  • TP-Link TL-SG1016DE (Easy Smart Switch)

• High-End:

  • Cisco SG350-28 (Managed)

  • Ubiquiti UniFi Switch US-24 (Managed)

Additional Considerations

Internet Connectivity

While RRM supports offline working modes, an internet connection is required for:

• Initial software installation and updates

• Synchronizing data with the cloud

• Accessing online features and support

Recommendations:

• Bandwidth: Minimum 5 Mbps download/upload speed; 10 Mbps or higher is recommended for smoother operation

• Connection Type: Wired connections are preferred for stability, especially during events

Peripheral Devices

Consider the following peripherals to enhance your race management setup:

• Printers: For printing start lists, results, and certificates

  • Recommendation: Laser printers for faster printing and better quality

• Backup Storage: External hard drives or USB flash drives for data backup

  • Recommendation: Devices with at least 16 GB capacity and USB 3.0 support

• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): To protect against power outages

  • Recommendation: UPS units with surge protection and enough capacity to keep your system running for at least 15 minutes

• Monitors: Dual-monitor setups can improve workflow efficiency

  • Recommendation: Monitors with Full HD (1920x1080) resolution or higher

Conclusion

Ensuring that your hardware and network infrastructure meet the minimum and recommended requirements is essential for the optimal performance of RUFUS Race Manager. Adequate preparation helps prevent technical issues during critical moments of your race events.

Key Takeaways:

• Hardware: Invest in a modern computer with sufficient processing power and memory to handle the demands of RRM

• Network Equipment: Use reliable routers and switches that offer the necessary features to maintain a stable and secure network

• Additional Equipment: Consider peripherals and backup solutions to enhance functionality and protect against data loss

By meeting these requirements and recommendations, you'll be well-equipped to leverage the full capabilities of RUFUS Race Manager, ensuring a seamless and successful race event experience.