What year did the first Olympics use automatic timing devices?

The year 1932 is significant in Olympic history as it marked the introduction of automatic timing devices during the Games held in Los Angeles. This technological advancement was crucial for improving the accuracy and reliability of race times, which had been previously recorded manually. The use of automatic timing allowed for more precise measurements, which was essential in competitive events, particularly in sprinting where fractions of a second can determine medal winners. This innovation set a new standard for timekeeping in athletics and has been adopted in various sports since, underscoring the importance of precision in competitive events. The advancements in timing technology from that year have had a lasting impact on how results are recorded and verified in sports.