Concept2 Monitor: How to Turn Off and Power Management

How do I turn off Concept 2 monitor?

The Concept2 monitor, particularly the PM5, is designed with sophisticated power management that typically turns itself off automatically. While a manual shutdown option exists, the most common method involves allowing the monitor to enter a power-saving sleep mode after a period of inactivity.

The Basics: Understanding Concept2 Monitor Power

Concept2 Performance Monitors (PMs) are engineered for efficiency and longevity. Their power systems are designed to conserve battery life, which is crucial for a device that tracks performance during intense workouts. This means they often don't have a simple "on/off" button like many consumer electronics, instead relying on smart automatic shutdown features. Understanding this design philosophy is key to managing your monitor's power.

Step-by-Step: Manually Turning Off Your Concept2 PM5 (and Older Models)

While the monitor is primarily designed to power down automatically, there are specific actions you can take for a manual shutdown if desired, or to understand why it might appear "stuck" on.

• For PM5 Monitors:

  • The PM5 does not feature a dedicated "off" button. Its primary method of powering down is through automatic idle-time shutdown.
  • To initiate a manual power cycle (which effectively turns it off and then back on, or allows it to go into sleep mode):
    • Ensure no workout is active.
    • Press the "Menu" button repeatedly until you reach the main menu screen.
    • From the main menu, press and hold the "Change Display" button for approximately 3-5 seconds. This action will typically cause the monitor to display "Goodbye" and then shut down. Release the button once "Goodbye" appears.
    • If the monitor is connected to a rower or SkiErg and receiving power from the flywheel, it may immediately power back on to the main menu screen. This is normal and indicates the flywheel is still generating power. In this case, simply let it sit idle, and it will enter sleep mode automatically.

• For PM3/PM4 Monitors:

  • Similar to the PM5, these older models rely heavily on automatic shutdown.
  • To manually attempt a shutdown:
    • Ensure no workout is active.
    • Press and hold the "Menu" button (or sometimes the "Reset" button, depending on the specific firmware version) for several seconds. Some older firmware versions might have a "Turn Off" option within the utility menu.
  • Again, the most reliable method for these models, if a manual option isn't readily apparent or effective, is to simply allow them to sit idle.

Automatic Power-Off: The Concept2's Smart Design

The most common and intended method for a Concept2 monitor to power down is automatically. This is a deliberate design choice to optimize user experience and battery life.

• Idle Time Shutdown:

  • All Concept2 Performance Monitors (PM3, PM4, PM5) are programmed to enter a power-saving "sleep" mode after a period of inactivity. This period is typically around 4-6 minutes without any input (button presses, flywheel movement, or heart rate signal).
  • During this sleep mode, the screen will go blank, and the monitor consumes minimal power, significantly extending battery life.
  • To "wake up" the monitor, simply press any button or begin moving the flywheel. It will typically resume where you left off or return to the main menu.

• Battery Conservation:

  • This automatic shutdown feature is a cornerstone of the monitor's battery management system. By minimizing active time when not in use, it ensures that your batteries last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintaining readiness for your next workout.

Troubleshooting: When Your Monitor Won't Turn Off

If your monitor seems to stay on indefinitely or doesn't respond to manual shutdown attempts, consider these troubleshooting steps:

• Check for Activity:

  • Ensure the flywheel on your rower or SkiErg is completely stationary. Even slight movement can generate enough power to keep the monitor awake or immediately reactivate it.
  • If using a heart rate monitor, ensure it's disconnected or not actively sending a signal to the PM, as this can also keep it active.
  • Confirm no buttons are being inadvertently pressed (e.g., by something leaning against the monitor).

• Battery Issues:

  • While not directly related to turning off, low or depleted batteries can sometimes cause erratic behavior. If your monitor is struggling to power on or is behaving unusually, consider replacing the batteries. The PM5 uses two D-cell batteries.

• Firmware Updates:

  • Ensure your monitor's firmware is up to date. Concept2 regularly releases firmware updates that can improve performance, battery management, and resolve bugs. You can update your PM5 using the Concept2 Utility software on a computer.

• Contact Support:

  • If you've tried all the above and your monitor still exhibits unusual power behavior, it's best to contact Concept2 customer support. They can provide specific guidance or arrange for repair if necessary.

Best Practices for Monitor Longevity

Proper care extends the life and reliability of your Concept2 monitor.

• Battery Maintenance:

  • Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears.
  • Remove batteries if you plan to store the monitor for an extended period (several months or more) to prevent leakage.
  • Use high-quality alkaline batteries.

• Storage Conditions:

  • Store your monitor in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
  • Avoid exposing it to excessive dust or moisture.

• Cleaning:

  • Wipe the monitor screen and casing with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the screen or plastic.

Conclusion

The Concept2 Performance Monitor is designed for efficiency, prioritizing automatic power management to conserve battery life and ensure readiness. While a manual shutdown option exists on the PM5 by holding the "Change Display" button, the most common and intended method for "turning off" your monitor is simply allowing it to enter its power-saving sleep mode after a few minutes of inactivity. Understanding this intelligent design, coupled with good maintenance practices, will ensure your monitor remains a reliable training partner for years to come.