I was able to get a good deal on a Pocket Radar Ball Coach. Unfortunately, I am not a pro at taking radar readings. If I put the mode on Continuous, is that sufficient to get the right reading, or is it better to control it manually? If manually, at what point should I hit the button to take the reading?
This post probably makes me seem dumb, but I really don't know, and I would like to make sure I am taking accurate measurements.
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I would use it in continuous mode. Unlike the first Pocket Radar it doesn't have the timing issues of pressing the button at just the right time. We have found the Pocket Radar is very accurate at closer distances. Don't use it if you're in a stadium and a long distance away.
We actually use the Ball Coach at certain events along side a Stalker or RaVid gun. The velocity readings are the same to very close.
I would use it in continuous mode. Unlike the first Pocket Radar it doesn't have the timing issues of pressing the button at just the right time. We have found the Pocket Radar is very accurate at closer distances. Don't use it if you're in a stadium and a long distance away.
We actually use the Ball Coach at certain events along side a Stalker or RaVid gun. The velocity readings are the same to very close.
Very helpful. Thank you!
Continuous runs the battery. Just press the button a few seconds before Kid starts motion. Works best if you're in a direct line.
The can be a 8-12 mph variance from release to the plate.
If you press the button, you have no idea where, along that line, the button was pressed. IOW, it's useless.
If you use continuous, it gives you the best chance of getting the highest reading (near release).
The can be a 8-12 mph variance from release to the plate.
If you press the button, you have no idea where, along that line, the button was pressed. IOW, it's useless.
If you use continuous, it gives you the best chance of getting the highest reading (near release).
If you press the button before the kid starts, you essentially have continuous without running the thing between pitches.
I searched for a better string on pocket radar and this is all I found. Since PG uses it officially i think this is a legitimate question.
Should the readings be taken from behind the player or in line. Or doesn't it matter. PG says they measure exit speed.
I have the blue dot one...have sat with a few scouts and it was within 1-2 mph ...try to get in a direct line behind the catcher for the best reading. I believe it registers the highest reading on that direct line.
I get the best readings with mine from directly behind the catcher, right at the backstop. A few times I've had to be off to the side of the backstop more on an angle and it's worked fine as well. I've used it next to a college coach and next to our HS coach with his gun and I've been pretty close if not exact most of the time.
There were plenty of coaches at HF (last year) using Pocket Radars as well. It's not just us dads with nothing better to do.
Any major difference between the red button and blue button models, other than each being 10mph slower than parents would like?
Goblue33 posted:Any major difference between the red button and blue button models, other than each being 10mph slower than parents would like?
PGStaff highlighted the major difference -- with the red button model you have to hit the button at the correct time. With the blue button (Ball Coach) model, you can use continuous mode.
I have the blue dot one. does eat battery but if you use rechargeables it is not that bad. continuous mode is definitely needed, I once used the old one and couldn't get accurate reads (probably could with Training).
BTW can you use the blue dot one "semi continuous", i.e. pressing the button before release of the ball and Holding it until it hits the glove? I have only used it continuous on a tripod for hitting.
