Overhead-mounted launch monitors like the Foresight Sports Falcon and GCHawk rely on precise installation, controlled lighting, and regular calibration. When customers report inconsistent hitting zones, ball lock concerns or missed shots, these symptoms are almost always caused by environmental or setup issues, not hardware failure.
This guide outlines best practices for installation, calibration, lighting, and maintenance to ensure consistent, reliable performance; and helps distinguish between configuration issues and true device errors.
Installation & Mounting Tips
Mount height should be between 9.5 ft and 10.5 ft above the hitting surface.
Verify the device is perfectly level in both pitch and roll using a carpenter’s level.
Avoid mounting on flexible structures or surfaces that can vibrate or shift.
Confirm the hitting surface is flat and stable; soft or uneven turf can cause misreads.
After any move, adjustment, or ceiling modification, recalibrate before use.
Lighting & Environmental Conditions
Remove or cover reflective surfaces near the hitting area; such as glossy floors, shoes, metal tees, club heads, calibration wands, or accessories.
Avoid direct or high-intensity lighting pointed toward the device or turf. Use diffused, indirect light for consistent tracking.
Eliminate glare from windows, glass walls, or monitors that can reflect IR light back into the cameras.
Keep the background dark, matte, and uniform to minimize interference.
Re-evaluate lighting whenever changing fixtures or wall materials; even minor changes can affect detection.
Calibration & Setup
Calibrate after installation, relocation, or any major environmental change.
During calibration, clear the hitting zone of all reflective items and movement.
Ensure calibration tools (such as the calibration wand) are clean and free of residue.
If tracking remains inconsistent after calibration, verify installation height and level before recalibrating again.
Refer to the official calibration guide:
How to Recalibrate Overhead Devices (Falcon and GCHawk)
Interpreting Error Codes vs Performance Symptoms
-
Fatal (Assert) Error Codes (C, L, M) indicate internal device failures and require escalation, can be viewed through the Hardware Diagnostic Tool.
Non-fatal or inconsistent hitting-zone issues are almost always environmental, not hardware-related.
A device that boots normally and detects intermittently likely needs recalibration or lighting/environment review, not repair.
Common Symptoms and Solutions
Inconsistent or shifting hitting zone
Verify installation height and level.
Remove reflective materials near the turf.
Recalibrate the device after confirming alignment.
Shots not registering or registering sporadically
Confirm the IR light path is clear of obstructions.
Reduce glare or high-contrast lighting around the device.
Check turf surface and ball position within the detection zone.
Recalibrate the device after confirming the above.
Device reports an error code but still powers on
Non-fatal codes can appear without affecting performance.
Only fatal codes (C, L, M) indicate a true hardware fault.
FAQs
How often should I recalibrate my Falcon or GCHawk?
Recalibrate whenever the environment, lighting, hitting mat, or mounting changes; or if you see inconsistent hitting zones, ball lock, or missed shots.
Can lighting cause missed or partial reads?
Yes. Direct light, reflections, and even shiny clothing can reflect infrared light back into the cameras and disrupt tracking.
What surfaces work best for hitting mats?
Use flat, matte turf or non-glossy hitting mats. Avoid polished rubber or damp turf that can reflect infrared light.
Can the unit be installed higher than 10.5 ft?
No. Installing above the recommended height narrows the detection zone and can lead to unreliable shot capture.
What should I do if my customer reports inconsistent reads but no error codes?
Focus on environmental factors first; reflective materials, lighting, or installation height; before assuming hardware issues.
When do error codes indicate a serious problem?
Only “Fatal Error” codes such as C, L, or M indicate a device malfunction requiring service.
Still Need Help?
If the Falcon or GCHawk displays a fatal error code or continues to misread after verifying installation, lighting, and calibration, contact our Support Team with the log files and device serial number.
Submit a Request
Related Articles