Help CenterCompatibility and Setup Guide
System Overview
The M7 Sky Screen System is our current-generation chronograph sensor system designed to work with PACT chronographs for measuring bullet velocity. The system includes special sensors that can be used with both ambient light (outdoors) and with the optional infrared lighting system (for indoor use).
Compatibility with Legacy Chronographs
| Chronograph Model | Compatible with M7? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MKIV (NOT XP) Chronograph/Timer | Yes, with adjustment | Requires 18-inch separation setting |
| Model 1 (NOT XP) | No | Incompatible due to fixed 24-inch separation requirement |
| Model 1 XP, MKIV XP | Yes | Fully compatible |
MKIV Chronograph/Timer Compatibility
The legacy MKIV can work with the M7 Sky Screen System with some adjustments:
- Switch the MKIV to Chronograph Mode
- Press the "SET" key
- Enter "18" for the 18-inch sensor separation
- Press "SET" again to save the setting
Important Note: You must make this adjustment each time you power on the MKIV unit.
Mounting Considerations: The M7 Sensors will not fit the older red bracket from legacy Sky Screen Systems. To use the M7 with your MKIV, you must replace the entire Sky Screen setup (bracket and sensors) with the complete M7 system.
Model 1 Compatibility
The older Model 1 chronograph cannot work with the M7 Sky Screen System due to fundamental incompatibilities:
- The Model 1 uses a fixed 24-inch screen separation
- The M7 system requires an 18-inch separation
- The Model 1 cannot be adjusted to accommodate the different spacing
Recommendation: If you're using a Model 1, replacing it with a newer chronograph is the best solution. See our trade-in option below.
Basic Setup Instructions
Outdoor Setup (Ambient Light)
- Position SkyScreens 5-10 feet downrange from your shooting position
- Place cables on the ground as much as possible
- Keep the cables separate from each other to prevent interference
- Ensure the chronograph unit itself is NOT being hit by muzzle blast
- Isolate the unit from shockwaves
- Use a recently purchased, fully charged 9V battery
Lighting Tips
- The BEST conditions are a bright, overcast day
- On very bright blue-sky days, try canting the sensors over 60 to 90 degrees, either left or right, to increase bullet-to-background contrast.
Indoor Setup (Infrared Light System)
For indoor use, the M7 SkyScreen System can be equipped with infrared lighting components:
Components:
- M7 IR SkyScreen Sensors (2)
- Extra White Tops (2)
- Ported IR Arms (2)
- Reflector Tape (2)
- 6vDC Wall Transformer with split plug
Assembly:
- Attach reflector tape to the middle of the underside (between the ribs) of the two extra White Tops
- Install the Sensors to your Mounting Bar (RED Side Away from Shooter on BOTH sensors)
- Install the black Ported Arms into the Sensors
- Install the White Tops (reflector side down) onto the black Arms
- Plug the wall transformer into both Sensors and connect to a wall outlet or compatible power source
Note: The infrared light is NOT VISIBLE to the human eye. If the units are powered up, they are working. The fan of the light is somewhat narrower than the Diffuser — keep your bullet centered over each sensor. The "sweet spot" is 6" to 8" above the sensor, dead center.
When not powered, your sensors will work normally using ambient light. Use the other diffusers without the reflective tape in this mode.
Troubleshooting Tips
- No Readings: Check battery charge, sensor connections, and ensure bullets are passing through the "sweet spot" 6-8 inches above the sensors
- Erratic Readings: Look for interference from muzzle blast, ensure cables are separated, and verify stable mounting
- Indoor Issues: Confirm IR power supply is connected properly and reflective tape is correctly installed
- Consistent Low Readings: Check for sensor alignment and ensure spacing is set correctly in the chronograph (18 inches for M7)
Upgrading Your System
If your current setup isn't compatible (Model 1) or you'd prefer a fully updated system (MKIV users), we offer a 30% trade-in discount toward a new chronograph and Sky Screen System.
To learn more about upgrading or to purchase the M7 Sky Screen System, visit our product page or contact our support team.
Questions?
If you need help adjusting your MKIV, setting up your M7 Sky Screen System, or exploring trade-in options, please reach out to us. We're here to assist with both legacy and modern chronograph needs.
Thank you for choosing PACT, Inc.!