# Timers

## What are Dispatch Timers?

Sonoran CAD allows users to create custom dispatch timers. Some example use cases of these timers are as follows:

* Creating a 10 minute pursuit timer before authorizing a pit maneuver
* Reminders to periodically check in on a unit
* Reminders to check in on a specific dispatch call

When a timer has completed, it will flash an icon next to any [attachments ](#timer-attachments)and play a [customizable tone](/cad/tutorials/customization/custom-audio-notifications.md).

## Creating a New Timer

Dispatch timers can be created through multiple different shortcuts.

### Via the Timer Panel

From the start menu: `Unit Management` > `Timers`

Press `New` to create a new timer.

![Sonoran CAD - Timer Panel](/files/frbQFuffMK49UHvy8hP2)

### Drag-And-Drop to Tab

If you have the timer [panel tab minimized or pinned](https://docs.sonoransoftware.com/cad/tutorials/dispatching/pages/-M_O3aJdPNa7DL9I8RCh#7.-tab-system), you can drag a unit, group, or dispatch call right to the tab.

![Sonoran CAD - Drag Unit to Timer Tab](/files/mjpsLvp9mftAFPImzuJ8)

### From the Context Menu

Left click on a unit ID, group name, or dispatch call ID: `Timers` > `New Timer`

![Sonoran CAD - New Timer from Context Menu](/files/KnrixBw4iBn1rAxeLMtX)

## Editing a Timer

### Via Timer Panel

The timer panel has options to start, pause, restart, and remove a timer.

Additionally, you can expand the timer to change the name and duration.

![Sonoran CAD - Timer Panel](/files/HJqKUQx6kdKZ4h7uMTHc)

### Via the Context Menu

When a unit, group, or call is [attached to a timer](#undefined) you can click on the timer icon. A timer menu will be displayed, allowing you to start, pause, restart, or clear the timer's attachment.

![Sonoran CAD - Timer Context Menu](/files/uGOQ1vcN0BWsbBkGbPlp)

## Timer Attachments

You can attach a unit, group, or call to a timer. This will display a timer icon next to the attached unit or call. You can hover over this icon to view the remaining time, or click on it for the timer context menu.

### Via Drag-And-Drop

In addition to dragging a unit, group, or dispatch call to a minimized tab you can also drag it to a timer in the panel.

![Sonoran CAD - Drag Unit to Timer Panel](/files/olmXWY1ncKBlPf3sO4JL)

### Via Context Menu

Click on a unit, group, or dispatch call: `Timers` > `Select a Timer`

![Sonoran CAD - Attach to Timer from Context Menu](/files/pVImG5FeKpvjySPPtdkt)

## Automations

Timers can also be created via [dispatcher automations](/cad/tutorials/dispatching/automations.md).


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