Here in Winnipeg we rigged up our own infrared counter, using
inexpensive Radio Shack parts, enclosed in a wooden box with a plexi
faceplate.  Works really well, except that the mechanical digit part
cannot be reset (after one temporary exhibition closes, for example),
but that's not a really big deal.  We have the same limitation as
Chris (groups of people being counted as one person; an empty stroller
being counted as a person, etc.).  More annoying is the unreliability
of the count due to visitors reentering the same exhibition hall
(junior high students repeatedly going to the washrooms outside the
gallery, for example).

George Wurtak
Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature

Christine Wolf <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>Julia Moore wrote:

>>Can some kind souls please provide discussion on the various mechanical (not
>>hand) methods of counting people, i.e. laser beams, pressure mats,
>>turnstiles, etc.--their advantages, disadvantages, and costs/benefits, as
>>well as some vendors' names?

>Julia,  we use a product called the Laser Counter manufactured by Laser
>Electronics in Blycheville, Arkansas.  It has served us fairly well with
>one notable drawback:  it counts a group of people entering the museum at
>one time as one visit!  It doesn't seem to be able to distinguish between
>groups and individuals unless there is noticeable space between them.
>Their literature claims a sensor response time of 15 milliseconds with a
>100 millisecond delay between counts but this is apparently only true if
>everyone walks through the door single file.  Each counter costs $249 (A/C
>powered) or $200 (battery powered with recharger).

>I would be happy to send you a fax of their brochure or you can call them
>at 800-441-2665.  We are currently looking for alternatives to this method
>of counting visits so I would appreciate it if people would respond to
>Julia's request on the list.

>Thanks,

>Cris Wolf

>Collections Manager
>UIHC Medical Museum
>8024A JCP/200 Hawkins Dr.
>Iowa City, IA 52242
>(319) 356-8475  FAX (319) 356-3862

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