OK, how does this all work?
First, a laptop or desktop computer (we do have Dell laptops with for a reasonable price) is needed. We do recommend the USB Interface Box. Considering how most newer computers do not have a parallel port, a PCMCIA or Express (34mm or 44mm) port is needed for the parallel Interface Box. See the notes below for specific computer requirements.
USB to Parallel converter cables (such as from Radio Shack) will not work so do not waste your time. Neither will serial to parallel cables.
The pads (see links for ordering the correct pads or new ones from QuizStuff) connect to the interface box which the connects to the computer's USB or parallel port. QuizMachine reads the data from the pads to determine which quizzer was the first to jump.
QuizMachine not only determines which quizzer was first to jump, but also keeps the score by quizzer and team. A printed score sheet is also available. Once a round is complete a file can be created and loaded into QMServer and statistics for all rooms, whether by a USB key or some networking scheme, is compiled within a few minutes. QMServer produces reports for both individuals and teams. These reports can be exported to a spreadsheet file and used in other programs is desired. The points for teams can be calculated automatically using Olympic, Modified Olympic or can be Win/Loss. The amount of points for the Olympic styles can be configured (ie, 5 points for 1st, 3 for second and 1 for third). The type used can also be selected, Olympic, Modified Olympic or W/L and can be different from one tournament to another.
The free 30 day trial version may also be used for training and practice with QMServer. See the download section for the User Manual.
USB Interface Box And Pads
***Please note that if you have Windows 7,8 or 10 running on a 64bit computer, you must first connect to the Internet before connecting the USB Interface box. A special driver may be required.
The USB Interface Box requires a USB driver to be loaded. This happens automatically when you start your computer and then connect the USB Interface box. Please be patient as it may take a minute or more for the driver to load. Once loaded, start QuizMachine. Go to setup, hardware tab. Change the setting from Lpt1 Interface to QuizMachine USB Qbox. QuizMachine should display a window that indicates the USB Box is Disconnected. Then almost immediately, another window should be displayed indicating that the USB Box is now Connected. No external electrical power should be required.
Some Common Issues
Wireless Networking: Please note that wired or wireless networking will dramatically affect performance on computers running any Windows 98 operating system and files cannot be exported. It is not recommended to use any processor less than 1.8Ghz Core Duo or Windows XP SP3 Pro with to network with QMServer.
The program does not recognize any pads: First, you can order new pads that are sewn on all 4 sides from us for $70 per string. See the store for more information. These pads work with any version of QuizMachine
To use the USB Interface Box on Windows XP just connect the box and start QuizMachine. The drivers will be loaded automatically. For Windows 7, 8 or 10 make sure
the computer is connected to the Internet before attempting to use the USB Interface
Box the first time. It needs to obtain a special driver from a web site that is not
obvious. Not following these instructions will cause the Interface Box to fail.
In most cases a correction in the system setup can be accomplished by starting in the control panel.
1. Click Start
2. Click Settings then Control Panel (or just Control Panel depending on your OS)
3. Click System
4. Click Hardware
5. Click Device Manager
6. Expand the Ports (COM and LPT) selection
7. There should be a port listed such as COM1 when the box is connected
8. To start over, remove that device
9. Start the install process again (see notes above)
For more support please contact us at quizstuff@quizstuff.com.