Shawn Sampson: Innovator, Racer, Son, Friend and Endurance Racing Veteran

Shawn Sampson: Innovator in Racing Radio Communications and an Endurance Racing Veteran

In the fast-paced world of motorsports, communication can make or break a race. This is something Shawn Sampson, the owner and founder of Sampson Racing Radios and Communications, understands better than anyone. With over 30 years of experience in both competitive racing and the racing communications industry, Shawn has built a reputation for delivering cutting-edge communication solutions that stand up to the demands of high-stakes racing.

But how did this all come about? Let’s take a closer look at Shawn’s journey from racer to industry leader and the pivotal role Sampson Racing Communications plays in motorsports today.

A Legacy of Racing: Following in His Father’s Footsteps

Shawn Sampson’s passion for racing runs in his blood. He got his start with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), following in the footsteps of his father, who raced in the SCCA during the 1960s and 70s in the highly competitive Formula Ford (FF) class. The competitive spirit of the SCCA—and the lessons learned from his father—shaped Shawn’s own racing career.

His early experiences racing with the SCCA laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the challenges and thrills of motorsports. Shawn’s involvement in endurance racing grew over time, and he went on to compete in several prominent endurance racing series, including the NASA Western Endurance Racing Championship (WERC), World Racing League (WRL), and the Lucky Dog Racing League (LD). With multiple victories at the 25 Hours of Thunderhill among his accomplishments, Shawn’s journey as a racer has been both successful and insightful.

The Birth of Sampson Racing Radios And Communications

As Shawn continued to race, he recognized a significant gap in the communication systems used by teams during races. His experiences as a driver, crew member, and team owner made him acutely aware of the critical role communication plays in a successful race. He saw that many racing teams were relying on communication equipment that wasn’t up to the task, particularly under the extreme conditions of competitive racing.

This realization led to the creation of Sampson Racing Communications, a company dedicated to providing high-performance communication systems designed specifically for the demanding world of motorsports. Shawn’s firsthand experience behind the wheel gave him the insight necessary to develop products that could withstand the intensity of racing, offering superior clarity, reliability, and durability.

Leading the Way in Racing Communications

Under Shawn’s leadership, Sampson Racing Communications has set the standard for racing communication solutions. The company’s products are built with one goal in mind: to ensure that racing teams stay connected at all times, no matter the conditions. Whether it’s a high-speed race or a challenging endurance event, Sampson’s communication systems keep drivers, crew members, and teams in constant contact, ensuring that every second counts.

From two-way radio systems to high-performance headsets designed for pit crews, each product is engineered with the needs of the motorsports community in mind. Shawn’s hands-on experience as a racer allows him to design products that deliver top-notch performance where it matters most.

One of the standout features of Sampson Racing Communications is their customer-centric approach. Understanding that no two teams are the same, Shawn and his team work closely with racing teams to customize solutions that meet their unique needs. This level of attention to detail ensures that the communication systems are not just good enough—they’re exactly what each team needs to stay ahead of the competition.

Staying Active in the Racing Community

Despite his success in business, Shawn remains deeply involved in the racing world. He’s not just the owner of a communications company; he’s a passionate racer who still competes in various endurance racing series. His ongoing participation in these events allows him to stay connected with the racing community and continue learning about the latest trends and challenges in the sport.

Shawn’s active presence at racing events and his ongoing conversations with fellow racers and industry professionals help shape the direction of Sampson Racing Communications. It’s clear that his heart lies in racing, and he uses that experience to continually improve and innovate the products his company offers.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Passion for Racing

Shawn Sampson’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and innovation. From his early days on the track, racing with the SCCA, to his success with Sampson Racing Communications, Shawn has proven that his knowledge of motorsports, paired with his dedication to quality, can drive meaningful change in the industry. Today, Sampson Racing Communications continues to be a leader in the racing communications field, helping teams communicate more effectively, stay connected under pressure, and ultimately perform at their best.

As a racer, a manufacturer, and a leader in the industry, Shawn’s commitment to the motorsports community remains unwavering. Whether you’re a driver, crew member, or team owner, Sampson Racing Communications is here to ensure that you stay connected and ready for anything the track throws your way.

New 90deg Pro Hole Mount Push To Talk (PTT)

Sampson Racing Communications NEW Professional Hole mount push to talk with coil cord. Features a 90deg bend at steering wheel, a high-bend test cable and industry standard 3-pin connector for IMSA or NASACR car harness connections

The SRC hole mount push-to-talk (PTT) switch is a device used in racing radios or communication systems to facilitate easy and quick communication between team members or drivers during a race. This type of PTT switch is designed to be mounted through a hole in a panel or surface, providing a convenient way to access the PTT button.

Here are some steps you can follow to install a hole mount PTT switch for the Sampson racing radios system:

1. Gather Materials:

   • Hole mount PTT switch
   • Mounting hardware (if not included)
   • 3/8" drill bit and drill, along with appropriate tools
   • SRC Racing radio harness

2. Select a Location:

   • Choose a suitable location on the panel or wheel where you want to mount the PTT switch. This should be easily accessible to the user.

3. Drill a Hole:

   • Using an appropriately sized drill bit, create 2 holes in the chosen location.

4. Insert the PTT Switch:

   • Insert the threaded portion of the PTT switch through the hole from the front side of the panel.

5. Secure the PTT Switch:

   • On the backside of the panel, secure the PTT switch in place using the provided mounting hardware. This typically involves tightening a nut or using a lock washer to hold the switch firmly in position.

6. Connect the Wiring:

   • Connect the wiring of the PTT switch to your racing radio system. This may involve attaching wires to terminals on the back of the switch.

7. Test the PTT Switch:

   • Before finalizing the installation, test the PTT switch to ensure it's functioning properly. Press the button and check if it successfully transmits a signal to the radio system.

8. Finalize the Installation:

   • Once you're satisfied with the placement and functionality of the PTT switch, make any necessary adjustments and ensure all connections are secure and coil cord is attached to the wheel along with under the dash.

9. Tighten and Seal (Optional):

   • If provided, use a wrench or tool to tighten the nut on the backside of the switch to ensure it's securely fastened.

10. Safety and Functionality Check:

    • Perform a final check to ensure that the PTT switch is securely mounted and functions properly. Test it one more time to be certain.

Remember to consult the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines specific to your racing radio system and PTT switch, as there may be variations in installation procedures. Always prioritize safety and functionality when installing any electronic components in a racing environment.

 

SAMPSON Push to Talk Mounting Brackets for Racing Radios and Communications

SAMPSON Racing Radios offers up a quick and easy way to add a Hole Mount Push To Talk to your current steering wheel system.

What are auto racing radios?

Racing Radios for Auto and Boats

In racing, communications should be established at all times among the team members. With the roar of the motor and other sounds potentially drowning out communications, auto or boat racing digital radios can be used by the team to connect with each other. Whether it is the NASCAR, IRL, SCCA, NASA, or many other racing organisations, choosing the right racing tools keeps everyone in communications.

What are racing radios?

Car or boat racing communications equipment is a must at any race event. This equipment can also be used in road racing, off-roading, outdoor water sports, and recreational vehicle activities. A complete radio package often includes a coiled headset, a programmable radio system, scanner, receiver, and necessary cables and cords.The headset unit can be adaptable to a helmet for hands-free operations.

What are the features of a car or boat racing radio?

Quality in car communications starts with a noise cancelling helmet kit, a shield car/boat harness and a steering wheel mounted push to talk. Depending on the distance, a team might also want to add a roof mount antenna.

How do you choose an auto racing radio?

Like any essential component, a car racing radio connects all team members at critical points of the course. When choosing the right tool for your team, here are several things to consider when checking out this accessory:

• Radio Quality: A quality radio will be used for many years without any issues. Digital racing radios are very popular and offer 100% communications
• Digital vs Analog: Digital radios offer full track coverage up to 4 miles, 100% clear communications and are 100% private. Analog radios are less money and offer track coverage (with static) up to 4 miles.
• UHF vs VHF: A versatile radio kit can be programmed to adapt to the standard UHF or VHF frequencies and channel for race track events. VHF is used for off road, aviation and marine environments (open line of sight). UHF is used for road racing tracks where hills, trees, and buildings are located.

Why do you need racing radios?

Communications between the pit crew, driver, and other team members should be established at the start. Clear audio should also be maintained throughout the race. These analog or digital tools ensure safety, security and other team notifications are transmitted in a clear and precise radio call. While on the track, drivers are separated from the rest of the team. With a functional car racing radio and headset, a spotter is able to see an incoming hazards or system safety issue while a driver navigates the track. With a radio and headset on hand, any member of the team can also send notice, ahead of time, if the car has tire, engine, or any system issues. This gives the pit crew time to prep and get you back on the track.

SRC Sampson Racing Radios and Communication's onsite video visit

DIY HELMET INSTALL KIT for RACING RADIOS

Push To Talk Quick Dash Disconnect

A "quick disconnect" in the context of PTT could refer to a mechanism or device that allows for the rapid detachment of the PTT button from the radio or communication system. This can be useful for situations where the user needs to quickly release the PTT button without fumbling with the connection.

Quick disconnects for PTT buttons may come in various forms depending on the specific equipment and setup being used. They could be simple snap-on/snap-off connectors, magnetic connections, or other specialized mechanisms designed to allow for fast and easy detachment.

If you're looking for a specific type of PTT quick disconnect or need advice on a particular application, it would be best to consult the user manual or documentation of the equipment you're using, or to contact the manufacturer or supplier for guidance.