OGA Clarifies Rules Regarding Distance Measuring Devices

The following provides additional clarification should a player need to determine the conformity of a Distance Measuring Device (DMD) or the conformity of a multi-function device (e.g. iPhone, Blackberry, Android) used as a DMD.

The USGA and R&A have issued a joint statement regarding the use of electronic devices. In addition, Decision 14-3/0.5 states that any device used for distance measuring may not contain any other features that are prohibited (e.g. [though not limited to] gradient, wind speed, local temperature). The joint statement states that multi-functional devices such as mobile phones may not be used as a DMD if the device contains any prohibited features.

Unfortunately with the proliferation of new applications and the complexity of many multi-function devices, creating a viable list of list of what does and does not conform is not realistic.

The player is strongly encouraged to resolve any questions about a DMD’s conformity prior to arriving on site for any OGA event where the Local Rule is in effect (this includes all OGA Adult Championships and all OGA Tour events).

Should a player arrive on-site with any concern about the conformity of a device or another player calls into question the conformity of another player’s DMD, the player should seek assistance from the Committee as soon as practicable and every effort should be made to seek out a Ruling prior to beginning the stipulated round. A series of questions will be provided that help to determine if the device is conforming for use as a DMD. The questions can be viewed by clicking here.

At an event, should the Committee require additional information, all pertinent facts will be taken into consideration in evaluating the situation and, if the Committee is unable to come to a decision either prior to the player beginning the stipulated round or, after the round has begun, prior to the close of competition, the competitor will be informed that he is using the device at his own risk and should the device later be ruled non-conforming, even after the close of competition, the player will be disqualified. A competitor in this situation will not be awarded any prizes or points until the determination is made. In such case, the decision of the Committee will be final.

Devices and applications already tested and known to be non-conforming (note this is not a comprehensive list)

Rangefinders
Leopold GX-4

Smart Phones
IPhone 3GS (Unistallable Compass)
IPhone 4 (Unistallable Compass)
All other smart phones with applications installed that might assist a player in their play

DMD Applications
GolfLogix (ability to suggest club in realtime)
OnPar (ability to suggest club in realtime)

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Printable Documents

1) OGA Clarification on Multi-Function Devices (Smart Phones) when used as a Distance Measuring Device

2) DMD Questionnaire/Flowchart

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