ANT+ heart rate monitors

lef

I seem to be having a lot of erratic readings from the Garmin heart rate monitor. This is the version with the rubber sensors not the newer version. It's been cleaned which used to always solve erratic readings but this time it seems to be persistently rubbish.

Can anyone suggest a good replacement that doesn't have drop outs / spikes?

Silly Old Hector

Could be static with your top, alternatively, if it's not old, contact Garmin and request support/replacement...

sharky1029

It may not be the HRM's fault. You could be having a heart attack :O

lef

well at 250bpm at endurance pace i did begin to wonder!!

It's over a couple of years old and used almost everyday so warranty probably out the question.

farrina

I find with mine that they last a year or so (if you are lucky) and then the only option is to buy a replacement. Have tried the warranty route with Garmin but they just give you the run around suggesting it's static (have not tried running topless yet) or change the battery for the n'th time.

For what it's worth the new soft type with the hook to attach the strap appears more reliable - but that may just be luck. I paid circa £35 for a replacement.

Regards

Alan

thescouselander

Maybe it would help to put something on the contacts to help make the connection - a bit of water (or even spit) will do. Alternatively you could use TENS gel from boots; you can find it in the pain relief isle.

amaferanga

I'd replace the battery before you try anything else (if you haven't done that already).

diy

+ 1 for Battery or a bit of "lick" on the back before fitting works well. I am still on my original one and it works well. I'd also check you have it in the best place. If you feel the /\ in your ribs aim for about 1/2" below that.

The other issue is if you ride with someone who has the same sensor frequency ID (they are not that unique) I have picked up other people HR at popular cycle stops.

Superbalicious

+1 for licking the contacts and changing the battery

lef

yeah ive been replacing batteries recently to see if that helps. Seemed okay this evening but the day before it was up at 250bpm.

No problem with it being my sensor, I generally train alone and when it does pick up multiple monitors it alerts.

Also definitely in the right position. Will try the spit trick thanks.

Eyorerox

Reinstall software on Garmin?
Shave your chest?

schweiz

farrina wrote:

I find with mine that they last a year or so (if you are lucky) and then the only option is to buy a replacement.

:shock:

I'm still using the HRM strap from my first Edge 305 which I bought in 2007 and it's only on it's 3rd battery in about 20,000 km.

At one point I had two spare straps as it was the the head units themselves that were failing and Garmin just sent out a complete replacement. I gave one to a mate who buggered up the battery cap whilst replacing the battery resulting in his strap rubbing his skin raw and the other is sitting there, waiting patiently for mine or the wife's to pack up!