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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. 

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Question(s)

 

To read answers to some of the questions asked by potential Golf Swing Analysis System users, click one of the following headings:


Demo version

Q.
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.

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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. 


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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.)

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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. 

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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. 


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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contact information. 

 

Windows' XP / Vista analysis programs for professionals and serious players.

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