FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Purchase & Cost
Where can I buy PUCK RACER?
Not yet available as a finished product. We are currently in the beta testing phase. Software licenses and hardware plans are expected to become publicly available from June onwards.
How much will PUCK RACER cost?
The software license will cost approximately 30 €. The hardware will be released as open source. You can source the components yourself. The PCBs can be ordered through a manufacturer. A single puck costs under 20 € in materials, so a set of 8 comes in under 200 €. There will definitely be a hardware list with links to the relevant shops.
Do you also sell pre-built pucks?
Welcome to the EU. We are currently unable to meet the strict requirements for "placing electrical devices on the market." PUCK RACER is a pure DIY maker project. We may later partner with DIY electronics shops to offer component bundles.
Can I build pucks and sell them to a club?
Short answer: Yes. But please keep the price fair! The hardware is open source. The club can then purchase the required software key from our shop. Keep in mind, though, that you become legally responsible for the hardware you build. For "your own club" that is no problem. Selling 100 sets on eBay – that is up to you.
There are LED games for 150 € on Amazon or AliExpress – why not just buy one of those?
You can do that. We did too. And precisely because they did not convince us, we developed PUCK RACER. ;-)
Hardware & Assembly
I do not have a 3D printer!
You probably know someone at your sports club or among friends who has one. Otherwise: An entry-level printer like the Bambu Lab A1 mini is a great investment. You gain a new hobby and, including the printer and all components, you are still cheaper than commercial POD systems.
How long does it take to build a puck?
A modern 3D printer (such as the Bambu P1S or A1 Mini) takes about 7 hours of print time per puck using PETG. If you use our orderable PCB, soldering the remaining parts takes about 10 minutes per puck. Without the PCB (free wiring), it is more fiddly and takes about 45 minutes per unit.
How durable is a puck?
The housing easily handles my 90 kg weight. It also survived the stress tests by my twins – which is pretty close to Armageddon. They are designed for sports use.
How long does the battery last, and does the system run on regular batteries?
No, it does not run on regular batteries. It uses a rechargeable standard 18650 battery. This lasts roughly 4 hours of continuous use. Each puck has an integrated charging board, so you can simply charge it with a standard USB-C cable (e.g. on a multi-port charger). A dual-battery version is planned.
Software, Games & Operation
How does it work without an app?
The Coordinator (the control unit) creates its own local WiFi network. You connect your phone to this network and open the user interface directly in the browser. No internet connection needed in the gym. Important: If your phone asks whether you want to stay connected despite no internet, make sure to tap "Yes".
How many pucks can I use at the same time?
We regularly test with 4 to 12 ESP32-C3 pucks simultaneously. Technically, up to 20 pucks should work reliably.
What is the range?
In a regular school gym, the pucks can be placed throughout the entire hall (20 to 30 metres is no problem) with the Coordinator at the sideline. For outdoor use, we are currently testing coverage on a 400-metre track.
20-25 games – I am losing track!
The system lets you create favourites or put together entire training plans. This way you have your most important exercises at your fingertips and can stay organised.
Which languages are supported?
Currently German and English. In the final release we will integrate 7–8 languages. However, you can use the built-in language editor to customise any text or instruction yourself.
Is a subscription required to use all features?
No, there is and never will be a subscription. The system is not even designed for one. You install the software and can use it indefinitely.
Do I need to connect the pucks to a PC for updates?
No. All pucks can be updated conveniently and wirelessly via OTA (Over-the-Air) through the user interface.
Is there a forced update like with other systems?
No. If everything works and you are happy: never touch a running system. Still, it is worth checking the website from time to time to see if we have added new games for your training.
