Introduction
Each of your controllers represent a significant investment, so it makes sense to take the best possible care of them. This brief guide will give you tips on how to best care for your equipment and ensure it has a long and healthy life.
Environment
Water - we've done our very best to protect the controller's internal components, but they are not water resistant. All ChronoTrack controllers ship with a 'shower cap' that fits over the blue deck of the controller so you can quickly cover the components.
If a controller ever does get wet, dry off any visible water as soon as possible. If the controller shuts down as a result of extreme water exposure, DO NOT attempt to power the controller on unless you have spoken to ChronoTrack Support. 
Heat - Controllers should never be stored for long periods of time in hot places because this could drastically reduce the lifespan of the internal lithium-ion batteries. Ideally, controllers should be stored in temperatures no higher than 80°F/26°C if they will remain unused for more than a few days. Storing controllers in hot vehicles or sheds is never recommended.
Dust and Dirt - Allowing dust and dirt to build up on the controller can eventually lead to problems with the TPC display and even the internal components by way of the ventilation slots behind the TPC mesa. After every race, it's a good idea to take a slightly damp rag and wipe off any visible dirt.
Batteries
Internal Lithium Batteries - As controllers get older, the internal lithium batteries will naturally start to age as well. As they age, their maximum capacity will slowly decrease, but the controller will continue to expect the same maximum charge. This can lead to false charge percentages and unexpected shutdowns, given enough time.
To combat this issue, we recommend using the Bat Cal utility every 6-12 months. For more information on this, click HERE.
CMOS Battery - Inside the TPC (Touch Panel Computer) is a CMOS battery that helps the controller keep the time while it's powered off. If the CMOS battery runs dry, the controller will begin to exhibit some strange behavior that can seriously affect your timing data's integrity. Since the CMOS battery is fused to the internal components of the TPC, a dead CMOS requires replacing the entire TPC, which is a costly repair.
Fortunately, you can drastically improve the life of your CMOS battery simply by powering your controllers on to charge for about 24 hours every other week when controllers aren't being consistently used. This will help to make sure that the CMOS battery is topped up and working correctly.
You can also store controllers powered on and charging, but if you do, be sure to turn the readers off to prevent the controller from heating up excessively.
Race Day Care
Delineation - When you're using your equipment on race day, athletes walk all over the place and kids mess with stuff. To keep your controllers safe, it's a good idea to set up clear delineation around your controllers to warn athletes away. Traffic cones and caution tape are a good idea. You can also come up with your own delineation ideas.
Lid Props - Pro and Pro2 controllers come equipped with lid props that will keep the lid partially open to promote ventilation while offering protection from the elements and to keep the lid from being slammed on the cables. During a race, whenever you're not actively using a controller, we suggest you put the lid down on its props to prevent damage to cables or exposure to water, dirt, or nosey pedestrians.