Understanding Performance With The Pm5 Monitor

The PM5 Performance Monitor is a device that provides accurate and repeatable workout data for Concept 2 Rowers, Bikes and SkiErgs. It has a backlit display and features wireless heart rate monitoring with compatible equipment. The monitor is powered by two D-cell batteries, with the BikeErg and RowErg/Indoor Rower models supplying power to the monitor during use. The PM5 is retrofittable to older Concept2 Indoor Rowers and SkiErgs, with the required version depending on the hardware version of the PM5. This guide will provide an overview of the PM5 Performance Monitor's features, functionality, and how to program it for your machine.

Compatibility with Concept 2 machines

The PM5 Performance Monitor is compatible with a range of Concept2 machines, including the RowErg, SkiErg, BikeErg, Model D, Model E, and Dynamic Indoor Rowers. It can also be retrofitted to older Concept2 Indoor Rowers and SkiErgs. The PM5 monitor is designed to provide detailed performance metrics and enhance the user experience during workouts.

For the RowErg, SkiErg, or BikeErg, the PM5 monitor comes included. However, for the Model D and Model E machines, there are two retrofit options. The first option is to purchase just the Performance Monitor (PN 1818). The second option is to buy the Performance Monitor along with new mounting hardware and a device holder (PN 2562 or 2565). The new mounting hardware provides improved monitor cord routing, resulting in a tidier overall appearance. It also enables the mounting of most phones and tablets, offering added convenience for users.

The PM5 is powered by two D cell batteries, and during use, the RowErg, Indoor Rower, BikeErg, or SkiErg supplies power to the monitor. One notable feature of the PM5 is its backlit display, which improves visibility, especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, the PM5 supports wireless heart rate monitoring through ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart technology, allowing users to track their heart rate during workouts when used with compatible equipment.

To determine the correct version of the PM5 for your specific Concept2 machine, it is important to consider the hardware version that your PM5 runs. This information can be found in the "Product ID" section of the monitor's menu by accessing "More Options" > "Utilities" > "Product ID". Ensuring compatibility between the PM5 and your Concept2 machine is crucial for optimal performance and functionality.

Heart rate monitoring

There are several heart rate monitors that are known to be compatible with the PM5. One option is the Polar H10 ANT+ Heart Rate Monitor, which is often sold together with the PM5 Performance Monitor. This heart rate monitor is worn as a chest strap and provides top-quality heart rate measurement, making it a popular choice among pro athletes. It is fully waterproof and has internal memory for one training session. Other compatible chest strap options include the Garmin ANT+ chest strap and the Wahoo Tickr Fit.

If you are looking for a wrist-worn heart rate monitor, some users have reported that these can be less reliable due to signal issues. However, the Polar H7 and Polar H10 wrist-worn monitors are reported to work well with the PM5. It is important to note that older Polar models may not have the Bluetooth connectivity required to pair with the PM5.

To connect your heart rate monitor to the PM5, go to "More Options" and then select "Connect Heart Rate Monitor".

Display and backlight

The PM5 Performance Monitor features a backlit display for improved visibility. The monitor takes two D cell batteries, while RowErg/Indoor Rower, BikeErg or SkiErg supplies power to the monitor during use.

The PM5 monitor is included when you buy a SkiErg, RowErg or BikeErg. It is also retrofittable to older Concept2 Indoor Rowers and SkiErgs. The retrofit kit is available for purchase separately. When retrofitting a PM5 to a Model D or Model E, you have two options: to buy just the Performance Monitor (PN 1818) or to buy the Performance Monitor with new mounting hardware and a device holder (PN 2562 or 2565). The new monitor arm included with PN 2562 and 2565 allows for improved monitor cord routing for a tidier overall finished look, and the ability to mount most phones and tablets. The retrofit you choose is up to your personal preference.

The PM5 monitor is compatible with ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart wireless heart rate monitoring with the right equipment. It also has the ability to store workouts on a USB flash drive (not included). Some kits include a device holder or smartphone cradle.

To locate the date of manufacture on a PM5: From the Main Menu, go to More Options > Utilities > Product ID and look at the value next to Datecode. The year of manufacture is represented by the last four numbers of the date code. Any numbers before that indicate the day of the year. For example, 1572014 means the monitor was manufactured on the 157th day of 2014.

Workout results storage

The PM5 Performance Monitor offers several options for storing your workout results. Firstly, the PM5 memory itself records your recent results. You can upload these results using the free Concept2 Utility software available at concept2.com/utility.

Alternatively, you can use the ErgData app, which is a free iOS and Android app that allows you to record results and upload them to your online Concept2 Logbook. This can be found at concept2.com/ergdata.

If you prefer to use an external storage device, you can use a USB flash drive with your PM5 to record your results. This can be viewed at concept2.com/usbflashdrive.

It is important to note that before your first workout, you should set the correct date and time to ensure your results are associated with the proper date. The dates and times of past workouts cannot be edited.

Connectivity

The PM5 Performance Monitor has Bluetooth and ANT+ wireless connectivity. This allows the monitor to connect to heart rate belts, fitness devices, and apps, including the ErgData app and the free online logbook. The ErgData app is available on iOS and Android and connects wirelessly to the PM5 via Bluetooth. It enables the easy uploading of results to your online logbook and provides additional performance statistics and display options during your workout.

The PM5 will receive and display heart rate data directly from a Bluetooth, Suunto, Garmin, or ANT+ HR chest belt. The monitor is compatible with digital HR straps and has an integral wireless receiver. The PM5 does not support analog HR straps.

The PM5 can also connect to other devices via USB-C or USB & USB-B. A USB cable or flash drive can be used to transfer results from the PM5 to the Online Logbook. The monitor has a USB-A socket in the back.

Frequently asked questions