For golfers and coaches using the GCQuad launch monitor, the ability to analyse putting performance with precision has become a game-changer. However, many users encounter confusion when trying to understand the difference between the standard GCQuad Club Data add-on and the more advanced Essential Putting Analysis (EPA) add-on. This article breaks down the key distinctions, clarifies common questions, and provides actionable guidance to help you get the most out of your GCQuad setup—especially when it comes to putting data.
The Essential Putting Analysis (EPA) is a specialized add-on designed specifically for the GCQuad launch monitor. It enhances the system’s ability to capture detailed putting metrics by enabling the GCQuad to measure critical aspects of the putting stroke that standard configurations cannot. These include ball skid, roll dynamics, and club face behavior during impact and release.
Without EPA, the GCQuad can still collect basic club data from a putter—but only with a single HMT (High-Motion Tracking) marker. This limitation restricts the depth of analysis, especially when trying to understand how the putter face interacts with the ball across multiple points of contact.
With EPA, the system unlocks the capability to read two or three HMT markers placed on the putter. This multi-marker configuration allows for a far more accurate and comprehensive analysis of the putter’s motion, face angle, and impact characteristics. The result is a richer dataset that helps golfers fine-tune their stroke, improve alignment, and understand how their putter behaves at impact.
With EPA enabled and multiple markers applied, the system can triangulate the putter’s movement with greater precision. This allows for accurate tracking of:
These metrics are essential for diagnosing issues like pushing, pulling, or mis-hitting the ball on the heel or toe. The EPA add-on essentially transforms the GCQuad from a basic putting tracker into a full-fledged putting lab.
Yes, but with limitations. The standard GCQuad Club Data add-on allows you to capture putting data using one HMT marker on the putter. This setup is sufficient for basic metrics such as club speed, launch angle, and spin rate. However, it does not provide the detailed face and path analysis that EPA delivers.
If your goal is to improve your putting stroke through data-driven feedback—especially in areas like face angle consistency, impact position, or stroke path—then relying solely on a single marker will leave gaps in your analysis. The EPA add-on fills those gaps by enabling multi-marker tracking, which is particularly valuable for advanced players and coaches.
Proper marker placement is critical to unlocking the full potential of the EPA add-on. The system supports various configurations depending on the number of markers used:
The exact placement of these markers depends on your putter’s design and the manufacturer’s recommendations. For best results, refer to the Marker Appliation Guidel. This guide includes spacing guidelines and best practices to ensure accurate data capture.
It’s important to note that markers must be applied cleanly and securely. Any movement, smudging, or misalignment during the swing can lead to inaccurate readings. Always double-check the marker positions before starting a session.