Orienteering Control Cards & Manual Control Punches
You do not always need an electronic timing system to prove that somebody has completed an orienteering course.
The traditional method uses a control card carried by the participant and a manual punch positioned at each control. Reaching the point and punching the corresponding box leaves a distinctive pattern on the card, which can then be checked at the finish.
Compass Point currently stocks both orienteering control cards and SILVA pin punches for this type of manual system.
When Manual Punching Makes Sense
For a timed competition with electronic results and split times, SPORTident serves a different purpose. But there are many situations where that level of timing infrastructure is unnecessary.
A school lesson may simply need to establish whether pupils found the correct locations. A coach may be setting a navigation exercise rather than a race. An outdoor centre may want a system that groups can understand quickly. A small activity may need something that works without batteries or electronic setup.
In those situations, the paper-based approach remains straightforward: put a punch at each control kite, give each participant a card, and check the patterns when they return.
The two parts have different purchasing requirements. Punches belong to the course and can be reused; cards are carried by participants and used up. That distinction is useful when working out quantities for a group or event — see bulk order bundles for larger numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do orienteering control punches work?
Each one creates a distinctive pattern of holes. The participant uses it at the control site to mark the appropriate box on their card, providing a physical record that they visited that location.
Can I run an activity without electronic timing?
Yes. Manual punches and cards provide a simple way to record completed controls when electronic timing and split times are not required.
What is the difference between a control card and a SPORTident card?
A traditional card is physically marked with manual punches. An SI-Card or SIAC is an electronic device used with compatible timing stations. They are different systems rather than two versions of the same product.