The History of Toptracer: How SmallPC Helped Revolutionize Golf Tracking Technology

The History of Toptracer: How SmallPC Helped Revolutionize Golf Tracking Technology

Toptracer, a cutting-edge golf technology company, has become a global leader in golf ball tracking technology. The story began in Sweden in the 1990s, when Daniel Forsgren, an avid golfer, grew frustrated with not being able to track golf balls on TV. Determined to find a solution, Forsgren developed a prototype camera with sensors that could detect and track the flight of a golf ball. This idea eventually evolved into a powerful technology known today as Toptracer.

From Protracer to Toptracer: A Game-Changing Evolution

In 2006, Daniel Forsgren officially founded Protracer, the company that introduced the world to accurate, camera-based ball tracking for televised golf tournaments. The innovative system allowed viewers to see the trajectory, speed, curve, and distance of a golf ball in flight, adding a new layer of insight to the game of golf. Protracer quickly gained attention in the professional golf world, leading to successful partnerships with major golf tournaments.

In 2016, Protracer was acquired by Topgolf Entertainment Group and rebranded as Toptracer. The technology was further developed to be used in driving ranges, giving golfers around the world the ability to track their ball flight metrics. This system, known as Toptracer Range, captures critical data such as trajectory, speed, curve, and distance, helping players improve their performance. Today, Toptracer Range is recognized as the "Official Range Technology" of the PGA of America, with installations in more than 24,000 bays worldwide.

Toptracer’s Early Need for Industrial Computing Solutions

When Protracer began rolling out its ball tracking technology to golf ranges, one of the key requirements was a weatherproof, high-performance computer capable of running the Protracer software efficiently. The system needed to handle camera tracking, process real-time data, and maintain reliable operation in varying environmental conditions.

In 2016, Daniel Forsgren reached out to SmallPC for assistance. SmallPC, known for designing ruggedized industrial computers, tested the SC215ML, a durable, waterproof computer designed to handle tough conditions. The SC215ML was equipped with waterproof connections, serial communications, and audio integration, making it an ideal solution for the outdoor camera tracking system. Furthermore, SmallPC’s ability to integrate the hardware with Ubuntu—a more challenging task at the time—demonstrated the company’s flexibility and commitment to meeting Protracer’s technical requirements.

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SC215ML: The Perfect Industrial Computer for Toptracer’s Needs

The SC215ML became the cornerstone of Protracer’s early infrastructure. This weatherproof, rugged computer was custom-built for outdoor environments, featuring:

• Waterproof connections for reliable operation in wet or humid conditions
• Serial communications support for smooth connectivity with the camera tracker
• Audio integration for capturing and processing sound-based data
• Ubuntu compatibility, allowing seamless operation of the Protracer software

The collaboration between Protracer and SmallPC helped ensure that golf tracking technology could be rolled out across diverse environments, from local golf ranges to professional training bays.

A Long-Lasting Partnership with Toptracer

What began as a small project testing the SC215ML has grown into a successful, long-term partnership between Toptracer (formerly Protracer) and SmallPC. Over the years, Toptracer has expanded its range technology to more than 24,000 bays worldwide, and SmallPC’s rugged, reliable industrial computers continue to play a vital role in supporting the infrastructure.

As of 2024, Toptracer has deployed approximately 50 SC215ML units in driving ranges and practice bays around the world. These industrial PCs help maintain the precision and reliability of Toptracer’s camera tracking system, enabling golfers and PGA Pros alike to analyze ball flight metrics with accuracy.

The Future of Golf Technology: SmallPC and Toptracer’s Collaboration

The partnership between Toptracer and SmallPC is a testament to the importance of customized industrial computing in supporting cutting-edge technology. SmallPC’s commitment to delivering specialized hardware solutions has enabled Toptracer to bring innovative ball tracking technology to golfers across the globe. As golf technology continues to evolve, SmallPC remains ready to collaborate with industry leaders like Toptracer to meet the demands of tomorrow’s technological advancements.

If your business requires durable, customizable industrial computers for challenging environments, SmallPC is here to help. Whether you need waterproof connections, rugged enclosures, or integration with specialized software, SmallPC has the expertise to deliver solutions that will keep your systems running smoothly in even the toughest conditions.

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