About
ArcheryClock is a free, GNU GPL-licensed countdown timer program built specifically for archery match directors (Directors of Shooting). It runs on Windows and Linux — including Raspberry Pi — and is designed with a DIY ethos, making it accessible at low or no cost for archery clubs and events willing to invest some setup effort. At its core, ArcheryClock shows how much shooting time remains, indicates which turn (A, B, C, or D) is active, and generates audio cues to signal the start and end of each shooting end. For more advanced setups, it supports hardware peripherals such as traffic lights, buzzers, 7-segment displays, and full LED matrix outdoor screens via GPIO (Raspberry Pi) or the Velleman k8055 USB interface. Version 2.6 introduced shoot-off functionality for alternating matches, slide show display during arrow retrieval, configurable blinking red lights, and the ability to remotely shut down Raspberry Pi client systems from the main computer. Version 2.5 added LAN multicasting so a single main system can broadcast timing to multiple client screens wirelessly, eliminating long VGA cable runs. Additional control options include keyboard/mouse, laser pointer remotes, Elgato Stream Deck Mini, and the Touch Portal app. ArcheryClock also keeps pace with World Archery rule changes, including support for the updated 30-seconds-per-arrow timing standard. Ideal for indoor clubs, outdoor competitions, and multi-lane ranges, ArcheryClock is a community-driven project actively maintained since 2010.
Key Features
- Countdown Timer with Turn Indicators: Displays remaining shooting time and the active archer turn (A, B, C, or D) in a clearly readable format suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Audio Signal System: Generates configurable sounds to indicate the start and end of each shooting end, including a 'run out of time' warning for alternating rounds.
- DIY Hardware Integration: Supports optional connection of physical traffic lights, buzzers, 7-segment displays, and full LED matrix outdoor screens via GPIO (Raspberry Pi) or Velleman k8055 USB.
- LAN/Wi-Fi Multicasting: Broadcasts timing data over a local network to multiple client PCs or Raspberry Pi screens simultaneously, eliminating the need for long display cables.
- Multiple Control Methods: Compatible with keyboard/mouse, laser pointer remotes, Elgato Stream Deck Mini, and the Touch Portal app for flexible match direction.
Use Cases
- Running indoor archery club practice sessions with on-screen countdown timers and audio signals for turn management.
- Managing outdoor archery competitions with physical traffic lights, buzzers, and LED matrix displays connected to Raspberry Pi hardware.
- Broadcasting match timing to multiple screens across a large venue over Wi-Fi without requiring long display cables.
- Building a low-cost, DIY dedicated archery range timer using a Raspberry Pi and GPIO-connected signal lights.
- Coordinating alternating-end matches with shoot-off functionality and slide shows displayed during arrow retrieval intervals.
Pros
- Completely Free and Open Source: Released under the GNU General Public License, ArcheryClock costs nothing to download and use, and its source code is freely available for modification.
- Cross-Platform and Raspberry Pi Support: Runs on Windows and Linux, including Raspberry Pi, allowing clubs to build low-cost dedicated timing systems using affordable hardware.
- Scalable from Simple to Complex Setups: Works as a basic on-screen timer with minimal effort, yet scales to full outdoor LED matrix systems with physical lights and networked multi-screen broadcasting.
- Actively Maintained: Regularly updated since 2010 with new features and adjustments to reflect World Archery timing rule changes.
Cons
- DIY Hardware Requires Technical Skills: Advanced configurations involving physical traffic lights, GPIO, or LED matrix panels require electronics knowledge and hands-on build effort.
- No Mobile or Web App: ArcheryClock is a desktop application only; there is no iOS, Android, or browser-based version for on-the-go use.
- Interface Is Utilitarian: The UI is functional but dated-looking, with limited visual polish compared to commercial timing solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ArcheryClock really free?
Yes. ArcheryClock is released under the GNU General Public License v3, meaning it is free to download, use, and modify. The only cost is any optional hardware you choose to build.
What operating systems does ArcheryClock support?
ArcheryClock runs on Windows and Linux, including the Raspberry Pi platform, making it versatile for both desktop PCs and dedicated low-cost timer builds.
Can I connect physical traffic lights to ArcheryClock?
Yes. ArcheryClock supports physical traffic lights and buzzers via the Velleman k8055 USB interface on Windows/Linux PCs, or via GPIO pins on Raspberry Pi.
How does multi-screen broadcasting work?
Using the LAN multicasting feature (added in version 2.5), one main ArcheryClock system can broadcast timing data over a wired or wireless local network to multiple client PCs or Raspberry Pi screens simultaneously.
Does ArcheryClock support the new World Archery 30-second-per-arrow timing rule?
Yes. Version 2.6 added a predefined button to switch to the 30-seconds-per-arrow standard. The default remains 40 seconds per arrow until the new rule becomes universally mandated, at which point defaults will be updated.
