ErgData and Concept2: Connecting Your Performance Monitor for Enhanced Training

How to Connect ErgData to Concept2?

Connecting ErgData to your Concept2 Performance Monitor (PM) is a straightforward process that unlocks advanced data tracking, workout programming, and seamless integration with the Concept2 Online Logbook, significantly enhancing your training experience.

What is ErgData?

ErgData is a free application developed by Concept2 that transforms your smartphone or tablet into an advanced display and data logger for your Concept2 indoor rower, SkiErg, or BikeErg. It provides real-time workout data, allowing you to view additional metrics not always simultaneously displayed on the PM, such as force curve, pace boat, and detailed splits. Beyond real-time display, ErgData automatically uploads your workout results to the Concept2 Online Logbook, making it an invaluable tool for tracking progress, analyzing performance, and engaging with the global Concept2 community.

Compatibility Requirements

Before attempting to connect, ensure your equipment meets the necessary compatibility standards:

• Concept2 Performance Monitor (PM):
  • PM5: Fully compatible via Bluetooth Smart (Bluetooth Low Energy). This is the most seamless and recommended connection method.
  • PM3 and PM4: Compatible via a wired USB connection. This requires a USB A-to-B cable and, for most mobile devices, a USB On-The-Go (OTG) adapter.
• Mobile Device:
  • Operating System: ErgData is available for both iOS (Apple App Store) and Android (Google Play Store) devices.
  • Bluetooth (for PM5): Your device must have Bluetooth Smart (BLE) capabilities.
  • USB Host Mode (for PM3/PM4): Your Android device must support USB Host Mode (OTG) if connecting via USB. iOS devices generally do not support USB data transfer from Concept2 PMs directly to ErgData.

Step-by-Step Connection Guide: PM5 (Bluetooth Smart)

Connecting ErgData to a PM5 is the most common and user-friendly method, leveraging wireless Bluetooth technology.

1. Download the ErgData App: Ensure you have the latest version of the ErgData app installed on your iOS or Android device from its respective app store.
2. Enable Bluetooth on Your Mobile Device: Go to your device's settings and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
3. Power On Your Concept2 PM5: Turn on your PM5 by pressing any button or taking a few strokes on your machine.
4. Navigate PM5 Connection Menu:
   • From the PM5 main menu, select "Connect."
   • Then select "Connect ErgData." The PM5 will display its unique ID (e.g., "PM5-123456").
5. Open ErgData App on Your Mobile Device:
   • Launch the ErgData app.
   • The app should automatically begin searching for nearby PM5 monitors.
6. Select Your PM5 in ErgData:
   • When your PM5's ID appears in the ErgData app's list of available devices, tap on it to select.
7. Confirm Connection:
   • The ErgData app will display "Connected" and begin showing real-time data from your PM5.
   • The PM5 will also indicate a successful connection, often with a small Bluetooth icon appearing on its screen.

Troubleshooting PM5 Bluetooth Connection:

• Ensure Proximity: Keep your mobile device close to the PM5.
• Check Bluetooth on Both Devices: Confirm Bluetooth is active on your phone/tablet and the PM5.
• Restart Everything: Try restarting the ErgData app, your mobile device, and the PM5.
• Forget Device (if previously paired): If you've had issues, go to your mobile device's Bluetooth settings and "forget" or "unpair" the PM5, then try connecting again through ErgData.
• PM5 Firmware: Ensure your PM5 has the latest firmware. This can often be updated via Concept2 Utility or ErgData itself once connected.

Step-by-Step Connection Guide: PM3/PM4 (USB Cable)

For older PM3 and PM4 monitors, a wired USB connection is required. This method is typically supported only by Android devices that have USB Host Mode (OTG) capabilities.

1. Gather Necessary Cables:
   • USB A-to-B Cable: This is the standard printer cable, with a flat rectangular end (Type A) and a square end with two chamfered corners (Type B).
   • USB On-The-Go (OTG) Adapter: For most Android phones/tablets, you'll need an OTG adapter. This adapter has a USB-A female port on one end (to connect the printer cable) and a micro-USB or USB-C male connector on the other (to plug into your phone/tablet).
2. Power On Your Concept2 PM3/PM4: Turn on your PM by pressing any button or taking a few strokes.
3. Connect the Cables:
   • Plug the square (Type B) end of the USB A-to-B cable into the USB port on the back of your PM3 or PM4.
   • Plug the flat (Type A) end of the USB A-to-B cable into the USB-A female port of your OTG adapter.
   • Plug the micro-USB or USB-C end of the OTG adapter into the charging/data port of your Android device.
4. Open ErgData App on Your Mobile Device:
   • Launch the ErgData app.
   • Upon successful physical connection, your Android device may prompt you to allow ErgData to access the USB device. Grant permission.
   • ErgData should then detect the PM3/PM4 and begin displaying data.

Important Considerations for PM3/PM4 USB Connection:

• Android Only: This method is generally for Android devices. iOS devices do not natively support this type of USB data connection for the PM3/PM4.
• USB Host Mode: Your Android device must support USB Host Mode (OTG) for this to work. Not all devices do.
• Power Drain: Connecting via USB can draw power from your mobile device, potentially draining its battery faster.

Key Features and Benefits of ErgData

Once connected, ErgData enhances your training significantly:

• Real-time Data Display: View a customizable array of metrics including pace, watts, stroke rate, heart rate (if connected to PM5), pace boat, and a detailed force curve.
• Automatic Workout Logging: Workouts are automatically saved and uploaded to your Concept2 Online Logbook, simplifying data management and eliminating manual entry.
• Workout Programming: Create and save custom workouts within the app, then push them to your PM5 for guided training.
• Race Feature: Race against a previous performance or challenge other users.
• Firmware Updates: Facilitates easy updates of your PM5 firmware, ensuring you have the latest features and bug fixes.
• Detailed Post-Workout Analysis: Dive deeper into your performance metrics after each session.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

Should you encounter difficulties, consider these common solutions:

• Bluetooth Not Connecting (PM5):
  • Check Bluetooth on Both Devices: Ensure Bluetooth is active on your phone/tablet and the PM5.
  • Proximity and Interference: Keep your device close to the PM5 and away from other strong wireless signals.
  • PM5 "Connect" Menu: Always initiate the connection from the PM5's "Connect ErgData" menu.
  • Forget Device: On your phone/tablet, go to Bluetooth settings and "forget" or "unpair" the PM5, then try reconnecting through ErgData.
  • Restart: Restart the ErgData app, your phone/tablet, and the PM5.
• App Not Detecting Monitor:
  • App Permissions: Ensure ErgData has necessary permissions (e.g., Bluetooth, location, storage) in your device's app settings.
  • Reinstall App: Sometimes a fresh installation of ErgData can resolve issues.
• USB Connection Problems (PM3/PM4):
  • Cable Integrity: Inspect your USB A-to-B cable and OTG adapter for damage. Try a different cable if possible.
  • OTG Compatibility: Confirm your Android device supports USB Host Mode. Not all devices do.
  • Power Cycling: Disconnect and reconnect the cables, and restart the ErgData app.
• PM5 Firmware Outdated: An older PM5 firmware version can sometimes cause connectivity issues. Update your PM5 firmware using the Concept2 Utility program on a computer or, if you can establish a connection, directly through ErgData.

Maximizing Your Training with ErgData

By successfully connecting ErgData, you unlock a powerful training companion. Leverage its features to:

• Analyze Performance: Review detailed metrics like split times, average pace, and stroke rate to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Track Progress: Consistent use of ErgData allows for accurate tracking of your training volume and intensity over time, helping you achieve long-term fitness goals.
• Stay Motivated: The immediate feedback and integration with the Concept2 Online Logbook can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
• Customize Workouts: Tailor your training sessions precisely to your goals, whether it's steady-state endurance, interval training, or power development.

Conclusion

Connecting ErgData to your Concept2 machine is a simple yet impactful step for any serious fitness enthusiast or athlete. By following these clear instructions, you can seamlessly integrate your performance monitor with your mobile device, transforming your training data into actionable insights and elevating your Concept2 experience. Embrace the power of data-driven training to optimize your workouts and achieve your full potential.