Concept2 Rower Monitors: Upgrading from PM3/PM4 to PM5 for Enhanced Features and Connectivity

Can You Upgrade the Monitor on a Concept2 Rower?

Yes, Concept2 rowers, particularly models equipped with PM3 or PM4 monitors, can generally be upgraded to the latest PM5 Performance Monitor, offering a significant enhancement in features, connectivity, and user experience.

Understanding Concept2 Performance Monitors (PMs)

Concept2 rowers are renowned for their robust construction and highly accurate performance tracking, largely due to their sophisticated Performance Monitors (PMs). Over the years, Concept2 has iterated on these monitors, with each generation introducing advancements in functionality and connectivity.

• Early PMs (PM1 & PM2): These monitors provided essential data like stroke rate, pace, and time, but lacked advanced features and connectivity.
• PM3 & PM4: These generations introduced USB connectivity for data transfer, basic heart rate monitor compatibility (ANT+ for PM4), and improved display features. They became standard on Model C, D, and E rowers for many years.
• PM5: The current flagship monitor, the PM5, represents a significant leap forward, integrating Bluetooth Smart (BLE) and ANT+ for broad compatibility with modern smart devices and fitness apps.

The PM serves as the central nervous system of your rowing experience, providing real-time feedback and recording vital workout data, which is crucial for performance analysis, goal setting, and motivation.

The Upgrade Path: PM3/PM4 to PM5

For owners of Concept2 Model C, D, or E rowers currently fitted with a PM3 or PM4 monitor, upgrading to a PM5 is a straightforward and officially supported process. Concept2 designed their rower frames with a degree of backward and forward compatibility for their monitors, making this transition relatively simple for the user. While the physical mounting bracket differs slightly between the PM3/PM4 and PM5, a new bracket is typically included with a replacement PM5, or can be purchased separately.

It's important to note that upgrading very old rowers (e.g., those with PM1 or PM2 monitors) directly to a PM5 can be more complex due to different wiring and mounting mechanisms, and may not be officially supported or practical.

Why Upgrade? Key Benefits of the PM5

Upgrading to a PM5 offers a host of advantages that significantly enhance the rowing experience, particularly for fitness enthusiasts, data-driven athletes, and personal trainers.

• Enhanced Connectivity:
  • Bluetooth Smart (BLE): Seamlessly connects to a wide array of fitness apps on smartphones and tablets (e.g., ErgData, Zwift, Kinomap, EXR) and Bluetooth-enabled heart rate monitors.
  • ANT+: Retains compatibility with ANT+ heart rate monitors and some other fitness devices.
  • This dual connectivity opens up a world of interactive training, virtual racing, and comprehensive data analysis.
• Improved Backlight: The PM5 features a more effective and user-friendly backlight, ensuring clear visibility of your performance metrics in varying lighting conditions, from dimly lit basements to bright gym environments.
• USB Flash Drive Compatibility: The PM5 allows for easy storage of workout data directly onto a USB flash drive, simplifying the transfer of results to your computer or the Concept2 Online Logbook. This is an improvement over the PM3/PM4's reliance on a USB cable connection or a more cumbersome card system for data transfer.
• ErgData App Integration: The official Concept2 ErgData app leverages the PM5's Bluetooth capabilities to provide real-time workout data on your mobile device, log your sessions, and offer advanced analysis tools that go beyond the monitor's display.
• Future-Proofing: As Concept2 continues to develop new features and integrate with emerging fitness technologies, the PM5 is designed to receive firmware updates that keep it current, ensuring your rower remains a valuable training tool for years to come.
• Increased Accuracy and Reliability: While all Concept2 PMs are highly accurate, the PM5 benefits from the latest sensor technology and software refinements, potentially offering even greater precision and data integrity.

Compatibility and Considerations

Before proceeding with an upgrade, consider these factors:

• Rower Model: The PM5 is designed to be fully compatible with Concept2 Model C, D, and E Indoor Rowers. If you have an older model, verify compatibility with Concept2 directly.
• Mounting Bracket: The PM5 uses a slightly different mounting bracket than the PM3/PM4. Ensure that your new PM5 comes with the correct bracket, or purchase one separately if needed.
• Power Source: The PM5 operates on two D-cell batteries. Ensure you have these on hand for installation.
• Cost vs. Benefit Analysis: While the PM5 offers significant enhancements, it represents an investment. Evaluate if the added features, particularly connectivity and data management, align with your training goals and justify the cost.

The Upgrade Process: Step-by-Step

Upgrading your Concept2 monitor is a straightforward process that typically takes less than 15 minutes.

1. Gather Your Tools: You will generally only need a Phillips head screwdriver.
2. Disconnect Old Monitor: Carefully unscrew the existing PM3 or PM4 monitor from its mounting arm. Disconnect the two cables attached to the back of the monitor – one for power/data from the flywheel, and one for the optional heart rate receiver (if present).
3. Remove Old Bracket (if necessary): If your new PM5 comes with a new bracket, you will need to unscrew and remove the old monitor bracket from the arm.
4. Install New Bracket: Attach the new PM5 mounting bracket to the monitor arm, securing it with the provided screws.
5. Attach PM5: Slide the new PM5 onto the bracket until it clicks securely into place.
6. Connect Cables: Reconnect the power/data cable (the thicker one) to the appropriate port on the back of the PM5. If you have an older heart rate receiver, connect its cable to the designated port.
7. Insert Batteries: Open the battery compartment on the back of the PM5 and insert two fresh D-cell batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
8. Test Functionality: Power on the PM5. Navigate through the menus to ensure all functions are working correctly. Perform a few strokes to confirm data display. Test Bluetooth connectivity with your preferred app and heart rate monitor.

Maintaining Your New Monitor

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your PM5:

• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Concept2 website for firmware updates. These updates can introduce new features, improve existing ones, and fix bugs. Updating typically involves downloading a file to a USB stick and then inserting it into the PM5.
• Battery Management: Replace D-cell batteries promptly when the low battery indicator appears. Remove batteries if the rower will be stored for an extended period to prevent corrosion.
• Cleaning: Wipe the monitor screen and casing with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that could damage the display or plastics.
• Environmental Protection: Keep the monitor away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, and excessive moisture to prevent damage.

When an Upgrade Might Not Be Necessary

While the PM5 offers compelling advantages, an upgrade might not be essential for every user:

• Basic Training Needs: If your primary focus is simply tracking basic metrics like pace, distance, and time, and you have no interest in app connectivity, virtual racing, or detailed data analysis, your existing PM3 or PM4 may suffice.
• Budget Constraints: If the cost of a new PM5 is a significant factor, and your current monitor is fully functional, you may choose to defer the upgrade.
• Infrequent Use: For very occasional users, the advanced features of the PM5 might not be fully utilized, making the upgrade less impactful.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Concept2 rower's monitor from a PM3 or PM4 to a PM5 is a highly recommended and valuable enhancement for most users. It transforms your rowing experience by unlocking advanced connectivity with modern fitness apps, improving data management, and future-proofing your equipment. This relatively simple modification can significantly extend the utility and enjoyment of your Concept2 rower, making it an even more powerful tool for achieving your fitness and performance goals.