The LASERWAR company produces equipment versions 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11

Version 11 Alphatag

A New-Generation Headband

In Alphatag, the key gameplay element is the hit sensors, unlike earlier generations where the weapon played the central role. Specifically for the new generation, we’ve introduced a unique headband. It features an ergonomic design that doesn’t press on the ears and remains comfortable even after hours of play.

Five hit sensors ensure precise hit detection. The sensors have a distinctive hexagonal shape, each with a branded engraving to prevent confusion with other equipment. They feature True Color light indicators and a photoelectric sensor with a 140-degree sensitivity angle.

Each Alphatag headband sensor is equipped with an individual vibration motor. Only the sensors that receive an IR pulse vibrate upon a hit. Thanks to the new low-profile sensors, vibrations are more noticeable, allowing players to instantly identify the direction of fire.

The headband includes a removable cuff made of three-layer breathable Air Mesh fabric. It can be taken off for washing and easily replaced with a clean one. The “Li+” battery (2900 mAh, 3.7V) provides up to 12 hours of operation.

Smart NFC Technology

In regular laser tag, with many players, your headband might accidentally connect to someone else’s kit. Alphatag eliminates this issue. The 11th generation follows the Easy Start principle – simply bring the headband close to the rifle, and pairing completes in seconds. After that, the laser tag kit is ready for battle. No equipment labeling or software pairing is required.

OLED Display on the Control Unit

Only in the 11th generation is an OLED display integrated into the control unit. It shows up to 16 gameplay parameters. You can connect other gaming devices, check active game modes, view basic settings, firmware version, and battery level. For all features, we’ve designed stylish and intuitive icons. With this display, initial setup of the kit can now be done directly on the headband, vest, or helmet.

Playing with 2 Devices

The hit sensors in Alphatag interconnect: you can play with two devices at once, such as a headband and vest, or a vest and helmet. When using two sensory devices, you choose which one is the primary.

Vests

Alphatag features a unique vest with an OLED display on the control unit. The vest is perfect for long gaming sessions, equipped with a 10,000 mAh battery and 36 hours of runtime.

Smartphone Connectivity

In Alphatag, you can connect your smartphone to the gaming gear. In the future, all players will be able to create team chats, communicate, and coordinate actions. Game organizers will be able to assign scenario-based tasks from any distance. Our mobile app, Alphatag Configurator, is already available, allowing you to monitor the game from your phone.

Bluetooth 5.0 Module

Alphatag uses Bluetooth 5.0 – the latest version of the Bluetooth wireless standard. Its key advantages are improved speed and extended range, meaning it works faster and over longer distances than older Bluetooth versions. With Bluetooth 5.0, devices can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 2 Mbps. The module supports connections with 7 additional gaming devices. You’re not limited in any way: vests, headbands, engineer cases, medkits, grenades, even smartphones – everything works as one seamless system without delays or disconnections.

Software

Equipment is controlled using the Alpha App software. The software is available on laptops and tablets, compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, as well as Android and iOS. The program features an intuitive interface, simple navigation, and a well-thought-out design. It includes a reward and medal system designed to increase engagement and loyalty among rental club customers. All player data is stored within the program’s database, similar to a CRM system, allowing club owners to manage their client base effectively. The configurator is free and publicly available. Depending on the region, it can be set to different languages.

In addition to the software for stationary equipment, we have released the Alphatag Configurator mobile app. Now, instructors no longer need a computer – all game settings are accessible right from their phone. The app allows for quick, convenient, and efficient configuration of laser tag equipment, integrating players into the game, editing tactical and technical parameters, launching games, and saving battle statistics. No computer is needed to adjust game settings – all selections and configurations are available in the developed program.

Statistics

The 11th generation introduces an upgraded X Gen Wi-Fi module, which records all in-game events – hits, misses, and eliminations. The module transmits data to the server in real time at speeds up to 150 Mbps. Statistics are stored in the armband. If you leave the network coverage area during a game, your data won’t be lost – the helmet, armband, or vest will save all information and upload it to the server once you’re back in range. Thanks to this, Alpha supports NPC characters that don’t require a game rifle. You’re not tied to a weapon, yet unlimited scenario customization remains available.

Sound

The Pro Signal speakers – standard in the 11th generation – are water-resistant and ideal for outdoor use. Their high-power reserve ensures long-lasting performance, delivering 44 kHz, 16-bit sound with up to 4W output. For Alphatag, we developed a multi-level alert system that announces all in-game events. 120 sound effects, recorded in a professional studio, provide crisp and loud audio feedback, so players won’t miss an enemy shot or an empty ammo warning.

Battery

Alpha’s gaming kits are equipped with high-capacity lithium batteries, ensuring uninterrupted operation for up to 36 hours – perfect for large scenarios, prolonged battles, and tactical tournaments. LASERWAR engineers and developers have integrated both hardware and software reserves into Alphatag, ensuring its relevance for years to come.

The first release of Alphatag was built on a 3.7V battery-powered circuit with internal charge control, using “Firefly” or Li+ chargers.

The second release, launched in mid-2022 and still in production, returned to the standard 7.4V batteries used in all LASERWAR taggers (including 8th, 9th, and 10th generations). Now, charging Alpha-generation taggers is no different – use “Spider” or SmartLi+ chargers.

Parallax

From previous generations, Alphatag inherits the Parallax optics, perfectly aligning with the 11th-gen concept – professional-grade equipment. The new emitter and specialized lens minimize ricochets while doubling the effective range without quality loss. The barrel design is based on flash suppressors, giving the optics an authentic look. With Parallax, hitting targets requires precise aiming – just like real firearms. Eye safety is confirmed by GOST R certification for photobiological safety.

Version 10 X-Generation

This generation has incorporated all the best developments of previous years and introduced revolutionary new technologies to the laser tag industry. For the first time, the "Tenth" has given fans of outdoor laser tag the ability to track game statistics in real time. This is made possible by an innovative module called X-Core, which combines cutting-edge technologies – Wi-Fi 802.11n and Bluetooth v.4.2 BR/EDR & BLE. The Wi-Fi standard enables high-speed data transfer, while Bluetooth allows seamless connectivity with smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets. A 240 MHz processor ensures fast and stable module performance, and 16 MB of flash memory stores game statistics for several weeks.

A custom-designed circuit board was created for the X-Core module. While it matches the size of ninth-generation boards, it accommodates 1.5 times more components. Thanks to optimized wiring and component layout, the board heats evenly and does not overheat during operation, enhancing reliability even in extreme cold or high humidity. The new series of boards is assembled by robots on an automated production line under constant supervision by company specialists.

For X-Generation, we have developed the latest software – LASERWAR Online Configurator. It features an intuitive interface with a user-friendly tile-based design. The configurator displays real-time game statistics, with the option to output data to an external screen. Laser tag arena owners can now manage their facilities, track equipment usage, monitor rentals, and even export stats to social media. The configurator also allows remote weapon adjustments without manual hardware tweaks. Combined with our smart devices, it enables the creation of countless unique game scenarios. Importantly, as always, we provide this software free of charge to our customers.

X-Generation equipment is equipped with the advanced "Parallax" optical system – a groundbreaking LASERWAR innovation in laser tag optics. Inspired by firearm flash suppressors, it boasts an authentic design while being three times more compact in length and diameter. Compared to the previous "Prism" system, it offers 50-60% greater firing range. Made from high-strength gun-grade plastic, "Parallax" is highly durable, protecting internal components from moisture and dirt. It is certified under Russian GOST standards and completely safe for the eyes.

Version 9

The version 9 Smart RGB supports the new Smart RGB headband which brings about a whole new level of game process. The SRGB headband supports the multi-zone and background illumination functions. A game involving such a device becomes straightforward and spectacular. Particular attention was given to its balance adjustment and weight: the headband fits one’s head well, its weight is 220 grams. For the device, we used new double layer cuffs, which have excellent humidity absorption properties and protect the electronics from humidity. Its continuous operation time is 48 hours. The device is powered by a lithium-polymer accumulator with a capacity of 1.8 Ah allowing to use any chargers of the Li+ range to charge the headband. The LEDs used in this device are way brighter than the ones used in the old version. The feedback function is preset by default in all 9th version play sets.

Version 9 play sets can be fitted with an OLED display. For these displays, the innovative technology of self-illuminating pixels comprised of organic light emitting diodes is used, meaning that they produce bright and intense colours. The OLED technology means that image quality remains the same under any viewing angle. Among the advantages of this display are high levels of contrast and precision. The introduction of a glare free feature made working with the display as comfortable as it can possible be. A defeat sensor, which is fitted into some of the play sets, rules out shooting from behind a hide out. For such incidences, there will be a punishment – it will become possible to hit the weapon. V.9 Smart RGB + OLED will make it possible to enjoy to the full fierce combat games.

Version 8

Version 8 Sport is represented by wireless play sets. It has the following parameters, which version 7 lacks: the new built in processor will make it possible to use new radio modules or to connect various additional devices to the board, while keeping the platform generally unchanged, to read version 8 statistics using standard programs. One can choose to use an OLED display. Among its advantages are bright and intense colours, superior viewing angle and no glare in the sun. Hardware switching function before a game allows to choose the most suitable shooting mode. The new infrared module and a hybrid optical system decreased the number of ricochets. The shooting range does not depend on the amount of charge left in the accumulators any more.

• Up to 64 characters can be loaded;
• Characters and “one round scenarios” are activated by a remote;
• New parameters added: Round time, Bleeding, Regeneration;
• The speed of Bluetooth connection between a PC and v.8 equipment increased and became more stable; the speed of settings sending;
• It has been made possible to regulate the volume of sound effects using the program.

Without an exception, all versions are fitted with Li+ accumulators (up to 36 hours of non-stop operation), with a top optical system that can be found on the market (hitting range and mark, certified safe infrared diodes), a unique function of cross shaped shot illumination, flawless sound, which includes 25 unique sound effects. There is an option to add a fire mode selector. The possibility to simultaneously use 2 weapons has become classic. The 16 new default presets allow a team to change all weapon settings and to play the most popular scenarios, such as Zombie, Last hero and Terminator, using a remote. The new software of the MILITARY SIMULATION standard is most convenient and of the highest quality on the market of laser tag technologies. The headband is connected to the weapon automatically – no additional setting up using a PC is required. All the equipment follows the Plug and Play principle. The equipment of all the versions is fitted with li-ion accumulators (up to 36 hours of continuous operation), best optical system that is available on the market, has unique cross shaped shot illumination function, excellent sound and the possibility to use 2 weapons simultaneously.

Version 7

Version 7 Smart LT is represented by wireless play sets. They use Bluetooth technology to connect a blaster and a headband. The play sets support LCD screens, laser tag vests, underbarrel grenade launchers. They have energy saving feature, a new Zombie scenario, radio statistics, recoil imitation and tactile feedback. Blasters parameters can be set up using a wireless radio channel.

• Zombie Apocalypse scenario has been improved. As before, on killing a zombie, a common player becomes a “living laser tag dead body” himself. We have made a small adjustment, which will add variety to the game – within a rebirth period (that is, within 30 seconds) the newly converted zombie cannot shoot, nor can he be shot. This gives players a chance to take more advantageous positions. The LEDs on Zombies’ headbands will indicate to other players who are in front of them. In a half a minute interval, the zombie will be reborn.
• There has been an added an option of team colour indication on activating the weapon. Thus, if on activation blaster illumination flashed once – the colour of a team is Red, 2 flashes – blue, 3 flashes – yellow, 4 flashes – green.

Version 6 MILSIM

Version 6 MILSIM (product launch – 2014) – besides the “headband – weapon” wireless connection – supports a laser tag vest (2 defeat zones) and the variable coefficient of dynamic armour. The fact that version 6+ firmware is modular means that an LCD screen and an underbarrel grenade launcher can be connected to it (separately or both at the same time). The latest firmware update was released on April, 6, 2014.

Version 5

Version 5 PRO+Wifi (latest version 5.02). Product launch in 2013. Compared to Lite version play sets, PRO+Wifi play sets have wireless “headband – weapon” connection, which is achieved by means of Bluetooth technology. Programming of tactical and technical characteristics of the weapon and the statistics is also realized through the wireless infrared channel. The latest firmware update was done on April, 6, 2014.

Version 4

Version 4 Lite (latest update 4.089) are wired laser tag play sets, which can be connected to a PC using a wireless infrared channel using a USB base for extended programming of technical and tactical characteristics settings. They support the feature of detailed game statistics viewing (number of shots, hits, used up cartridges, time of game equipment operation, etc.). Developed in 2012, it remained the most popular generation of laser tag equipment on the Russian market till 2013. The set comes with a new version of wired headband.

Download the firmware

Firmware Description

How to update firmware?

Now, to update equipment v.8 Sport and v.8 Sport + feedback to the latest version, download the firmware file from our website and send it to the blaster using the configurator. There is no need to dismantle a play set any more, which is done at one’s own risk, to extract a processor, nor to update software using the programmator – this all remained in the past thanks to the new features.

Download the file for v.8 Sport in .bin format from our website.

In a window that appears, enter the path to the file that has been downloaded. Click on Update.

LW firmware and firmware provision conditions under a limited license

LLC LASERWAR only allows to use the firmware to update the firmware of microcontrollers on circuit boards produced by LLC LASERWAR that were purchased from an official dealer; to obtain new functions, support devices, improve the performance or routine maintenance of laser tag equipment.

It is forbidden:

• To get firmware for microcontrollers with the purpose to receive profit from selling laser tag electronics, printed circuit boards with a device area for MK PIC16F886. Especially when the unconscientious copying is performed by an outsourced laser tag manufacturer irrespective of their aims (education, non-commercial use or any other action that causes any harm to the LLC LASERWAR rights holder).
• To copy, distribute via websites, e-mail or use any other means to pass it on to third parties without notifying them about its limited use and without providing a link to our website.

By downloading the firmware, you agree to the limited license conditions and assume the obligation to comply with this agreement.

How can you update firmware for microcontroller PIC16F886 on your own?