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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Prospective Golf Swing Analysis
System program buyer questions cover a multitude of subjects: the actual
application, computers, camcorders, video capturing hardware, editing software
and others.
Browse
through a list of frequently asked questions to find an answer for yourself or
use this form to submit your questions about the program. You'll receive an answer within 24 hours.
To read answers to some of the questions asked by potential Golf Swing Analysis System
users, click one of the following headings:
Demo versionQ.
Do you have a demo or trial version of the software?
A.
Yes. There's a Play-Only Demo CD available for Golf Swing Analysis System Professional. Click here for complete information.
^ Return to Questions.
Compare swing to a pro's
Q.
Can I see how my swing compares to a professional golfer? Does your program have any pre-recorded model swings
(tour players, instructors, etc.)?
A.
Yes, you can do side-by-side comparisons of any swing which you analyze.
In order to respect copyright laws, the rights of golf professionals and to
keep my software at a low price, my programs do not come with any pro
swings. However, you can
put together a collection of pro swings recorded from television, videotapes
or from any source where you are legally allowed to do so.
^ Return to Questions.
Ability to use the program
Q.
Would your software be beyond my ability to use it effectively?
A.
Of course, that depends on you and how much you know about swing
mechanics. The more you know the better. But, because of the relative
nature of golf, I'm sure you'll become very educated about your own swing,
after you've seen and analyzed it over a period of time. My applications are ideal
for you to mark your progress. It is like a database for your swing and the
many features will let you compare your good and not-so-good swings side
by side. Once you've achieved your own "model" swing, you can use this as
a reference whenever your swing gets off track.
^ Return to Questions.
Swing
instruction
Q.
Does the software include some type of swing instruction that would guide me as to where things "should be"?
A.
Golf Swing Analysis System comes with some limited instructional suggestions.
Putting Analysis System comes with complete, picture-illustrated tips and
hardware training devices. There are printed
tutorials and extensive in-program Help to guide you in getting the most from my
applications. Templates have graphics setup for
each Analysis section and there are placeholder swing pictures to indicate where graphic elements should be placed. You'll have all the tools, it's up to
you to analyze the swings. I believe even with a limited knowledge of the swing, golfers can improve by using
Golf Swing Analysis System. Utilizing my applications will
certainly help you understand your own swing and make improvements.
^ Return to Questions.
Hardware
purchasing
Q.
I am looking to purchase Golf Swing Analysis System. How much would it cost with a video capture card and 8mm camcorder?
A.
We only sell the computer swing analysis software, the hardware referenced on
this website is to give you an idea of what you need to utilize my program.
Today, Hi8 format camcorders can be purchased for as little as $200. Analog-type capture cards are also not too expensive, however, don't buy an external "USB" device. If you have a newer computer system, it
probably has a digital video (FireWire/iLink) connection. If so, you should consider getting a digital format (miniDV, Digital8) camcorder,
some models start as low as $200.
^ Return to
Questions. Using
program outside the United States
Q.
I live in England and I am very interested in your software. Will I experience any problems running
it?
A.
Golf Swing Analysis System is being purchased and used (since 2001) without problems in Great
Britain and throughout the world. It works with PAL as well as NTSC television/video systems.
^ Return to
Questions.
Swing speed
accuracy
Q.
How accurate is the swing speed feature compared with using an (electronic) analyser ?
A.
Because we're working with video, calculations are performed mechanically, so there will be some human error
introduced. However, using care when performing this function will result in very accurate
readings. Golf Swing Analysis System
has an advantage over other devices in that you can
acquire clubhead speed readings not only at impact, but throughout the entire swing, including the backswing. Used
in conjunction with the Timing Tool, load data/acceleration is also automatically figured for you.
^ Return to
Questions.
Digital
camcorder features, connection and software
Q.
Say I purchase a Sony digital camcorder. Do I have to ask if it has any special features? How is the connection made between the camcorder and the
FireWire card? Do I need some other software to get the video from the camcorder to the
PC?
A.
Your new miniDV camcorder will have either a Sports mode or better yet, manual
shutter speed control with multiple
settings, but it doesn't require any other special features for swing analysis.
You have to decide what extras you want when you use your camera for other purposes. Many FireWire cards come with a camera-computer connection cable and your new camcorder might also include this cable. The FireWire cards come with basic video
capturing/editing software. Pinnacle Studio 7 video editing software has a simple
interface and good features. See if you can find it packaged with your hardware. If not,
other software will also do the job for you. Golf Swing Analysis System Professional
version includes custom-integrated video capturing software.
^ Return to
Questions.
Installing
software on a new computer
Q.
I switch computers every year. Will I be able to move your program to a new computer without additional fees?
A.
Yes, as long as this is your own computer and you're the Golf Swing Analysis
System authorized user. Otherwise, a separate fee
is required for each computer. As an authorized user you are allowed to load the
software on your desktop PC, as well as, your notebook computer.
^ Return to
Questions.
Delivery
Q.
How is your software delivered to me?
A.
Golf Swing Analysis System Standard version is downloaded via the
Internet, saving you time and shipping costs. Easy-to-follow directions are
provided. The Professional and Putting Analysis System programs come on CD-ROM with printed Step-by-Step installation and other instructions, along with
printed tutorials for constructing and viewing a swing analysis. It's sent to you via US Priority
Mail and delivered in the United States in 2-3 days. Delivery outside the U.S.
can be expected in 6-10 days. When you order on-line with a major credit card, the package is usually shipped
within 24 hours.
^ Return to
Questions.
Windows XP
Q.
My computer operating system is Windows XP. Does your software work with XP?
A. (updated 2/21/08)
Yes. All the applications perform well with either XP Home, XP Professional or Media Center and
one of those is recommended. Now, all buyers will also get special Windows'
Vista versions, so you'll be prepared when you acquire a Vista PC in the
future.
^ Return to
Questions.
Lower price
Q.
Do you have plans to capture more market share by lowering your price?
A. (updated / effective 11/1/07)
The Golf Swing Analysis System Standard version
price has been lowered to $49 so more people can benefit from the program. Because it
is downloaded via the Internet, delivery is fast and no shipping charges have to
paid either. Golf Swing Analysis System Professional's price has
been
reduced $42 for 2008 and is now only $197. The Professional
Suite, 3 computer application bundle, includes Golf Swing Analysis System
Professional, Putting Analysis System and All Sports Analysis Program, a
$470 total value, is now priced at just $349.
^ Return to
Questions.
Comparing
swing videos
Q.
Do I have the ability to compare swings, as the video runs? Can you overlay one video on another?
A.
You can use Golf Swing Analysis System for comparisons many ways. Compare Key Position still frames as well as
videos, side-by-side. You can not overlay videos.
^ Return to
Questions. Time
to video capture a swing
Q.
How long does it approximately take before I can replay a live recorded swing? I know this depends on the PC and also the length of the recording,
but could you please give me an example?
A.
The Professional version includes
integrated capture software which makes the swing ready for analysis within
seconds. Golf Swing Analysis System Standard is not a video capture device.
Using the Standard version, you must first capture, save and then load the .AVI video file into
the program before you can do an analysis. Once you're familiar with the process, it'll take only a
minute or so.
^ Return to
Questions. Compatible
video capture cards
Q.
Any favorite video capture card to be compatible with the (Standard version) program?
A.
(Professional
version includes integrated capture software, compatibility issued have not been
encountered.) There aren't any compatibility issues because Golf Swing Analysis System Standard does not deal directly with the capture hardware. USB type capture devices should be avoided because they don't have sufficient digitizing capacity. There
are many FireWire digital capture packages which are great values. They include the computer card, editing
software and cable for under $50. Any analog or digital capture card capable of saving an .AVI file will do. Just load that .AVI swing video file into
Golf Swing Analysis System and work with it.
^ Return to
Questions. General
hardware recommendations
Q.
Recommended computer specs i.e. hard drive size, speed, RAM and so on. Any recommended
cameras?
A.
Of course, newer more powerful computers are preferred, but Golf Swing Analysis
System Standard also performs well on older systems. The video capturing process places
the most demands on your computer, so at least 256 MB RAM
and 8 MB Video Memory are recommended. For swing analysis, just a basic-feature digital
format (miniDV, Digital8) camcorder is all that you'll need. A FireWire/iLink capture device will be necessary for getting the digital format video into your computer. Some laptop models come with them as well as a video out port for display on a TV or for recording to a VCR.
The Golf Swing Analysis System Professional high speed/resolution
features require having a more powerful computer system.
^ Return to
Questions. Video
capture cards for laptop computers
Q.
My computer runs Windows XP Home Edition. What digital video capture card do you recommend for laptops/notebooks?
A.
I don't know of a superior brand. I've seen some priced at under $50. If it comes with a FireWire cable for attaching your camcorder to your computer, that's a plus.
The majority will come with video capture/editing software, I prefer Pinnacle's Studio 7 easy-to-use interface. Use the capture card's software to digitize video, rather than Windows XP Movie Maker's limited options. (Professional
version includes integrated capture software.)
^ Return to
Questions. Purchasing
a video capture card Q.
I have the camcorder but I also have to purchase the video capture card. Is that something you supply?
A.
We don't sell any hardware at this time. The type of camcorder you have will dictate what kind of video capture device you'll require. If you have a digital format camcorder, then a FireWire (IEEE1394) capture card is what you need. If you have a newer computer it
probably has a built-in FireWire
card. Sony calls their FireWire devices, iLink. If you have an analog camcorder (Hi8, VHS, etc.) then you need an analog-type video capture device for your desktop pc. (Notebook PC's can only use a digital-type card.) If you're not comfortable getting inside your computer case, then have the computer store install it for about $40. One important note with video capture devices, don't purchase a USB type. They don't have the capacity to capture every video frame required for swing analysis.
^ Return to
Questions. Refund
money
Q.
Will you refund my $$$ if I'm not satisfied with the program?
A.
We want you to be happy with the application you buy. You will be given fast email support help and we'll
do all we can to try to satisfy you. Defective software can be exchanged, but, for obvious reasons, computer software purchase refunds are
not offered. I've tried to include detailed information covering all aspects of
the applications at this web site. Please spend a lot of time here and read what the programs can and can't do.
^ Return to
Questions.
Video camera for laptop
Q.
I'd like to purchase the program but need some help with the video requirements. Can you suggest a video camera that will
work? I have a laptop
running win 2000. Do I get a FireWire pc card bus card for feed???
A.
For laptop use, you'll need a digital format (miniDV, digital8) camcorder and
either built-in IEEE1394 (FireWire/iLink) port or add a PCMCIA FireWire capture
card. For swing analysis, the basic models will work just fine, only thing
required is a high-speed shutter, there's no need to pay for extra features
unless they're what you want.
^ Return to
Questions. Which digital camcorder model
Q.
I'm looking to purchase a digital camcorder. After I get it I plan on getting the Golf
Swing Analysis System software. Do you have any camcorders that you recommend? I'm looking to spend about $800.00.
A. (Updated: 2/21/08)
For swing
analysis, digital zooms and other bells and whistles aren't necessary. But, contrary to what some believe, man does not live by golf alone. So get a
miniDV camcorder with features you like and will use off the golf
course as well. Best value now is the Panasonic GS85 which has
a useful manual shutter speed control feature and can be found on
sale for $224. There are other miniDV camcorders in the 200-300 dollar price range that will work fine with my software. You don’t have to spend more for a camcorder, or need any other features, to do quality swing analysis work.
^ Return to
Questions.
Sales
representative
Q.
I am sure that I can sell your program as it is priced extremely well. Is it possible that I represent you in this region as an independent sales
representative?
A.
Yes. For consideration, please submit your qualifications, background and
references. Once you become an authorized independent sales representatives you can purchase
software at a discounted price. There is a special sales rep on-line order form to submit buyer information and pay for the
application. The program package is
then shipped directly to the buyer.
^ Return to
Questions.
Credit Card / Singapore
Q.
i want to order some product from you after i look your company information. But I have some question :
- Do you accept credit card for payment
- Could you ship the goods to singapore
A.
Yes and Yes. Credit cards are accepted through PayPal, the Internet's most trusted credit card processing company.
We ship our computer programs worldwide by U.S. Priority Mail International. Delivery
estimation is 6-10 days, but could take 2 to 3 weeks. ^ Return to
Questions.
Special camcorder
Q.
Do I need a camcorder that will do 60 frames per second to utilze the professional software?
A.
No special camcorder is needed. My applications take the normal 30 frame-per-second video rate, and double it to 60 FPS. It's a technical thing. All you need is a basic, low-priced miniDV format camcorder.
The Panasonic PV-GS85 is a very good value, on sale now for $224. It's manual high speed shutter control is a worthwhile feature, something found in only more expensive models. There are many other miniDV camcorders in this price range, having a Sports mode shutter setting, that will also do a good job. DVD, Hard Drive and other format camcorders are not recommended for various reasons.
^ Return to
Questions.
More than one camera
Q.
Can the (Golf Swing Analysis System Professional) software support more than one camera?
A.
The cost/benefit to simultaneously capturing with more than one camera is not worth it.
Please go to the "Compared To Others"
page to find out why.
^ Return to
Questions.
Windows' Vista computer Q.
I am going to purchase a new computer, is this software compatible with Windows Vista?
A.
As of February 1, 2008, Golf Swing Analysis System Professional, Putting
Analysis System and All Sports Analysis Program come with a special Windows' Vista version, which takes advantage of this new operating system's features.
Click here for more information.
^ Return to
Questions.
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