Ball Machine Instructions
Oundle Tennis Club provides this machine for the benefit of members.
Before using the machine you MUST familiarise yourself with these instructions.
- Before using the machine for the first time, please read the operating instructions. There is a link to the instructions on the club’s website and they are available online at https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1161/7234/files/UM_Plus2.pdf
- You are required to acknowledge that you have read these instructions by completing the log book stored with the machine before every use.
- A ramp is provided for getting the machine in and out of its shed. Please use it as the machine is heavy. The machine has 4 rubber feet which it rests on whilst in use. It is important the machine is not allowed to drag along the ground as this damages the feet.
- The machine now runs on mains power. There is a power outlet on each of courts 1 and 2 at the bottom of the flood light post nearest the entrance to the court. In the machine’s storage shed you will find an extension lead and a cable protector which should be used to minimise any trip hazard.
- The machine should be placed at the centre of the baseline.
- Do not reach or look into the machine’s ball exit hole without turning the main power off, and only after both wheels come to a complete stop, and do not stand closer than 10 metres in front of the ball machine whilst the power is on. The machine is designed to discharge balls at speed and there is therefore a risk of injury to anyone in the firing line or anyone who accesses the moving parts whilst the machine is operating.
- Do not place balls or foreign objects into the ball hopper while the feeder tray is moving. It could cause jam and damage the feeder motor.
- Overloading of balls into the ball hopper may result in a jam of the feeder. No more than 120 balls should be put inside the ball hopper at once.
- Do not use the machine while it is raining or use wet tennis balls. A container of pressureless tennis balls is provided for use with the machine. A tennis ball pick up tube can be found in the clubhouse and may be used to collect balls.
- Children under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult when using the machine.
- If you find any defect or are otherwise concerned about the functioning of the machine please stop using it immediately and report it to pr@oundletennis.org
Many thanks
The OTC Committee