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How to update Concept2 PM5 firmware

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In short

You can update a Concept2 PM5 in two ways: through the ErgData app on a phone or tablet over Bluetooth, or through the Concept2 Utility program on a computer with a USB cable. Make sure the monitor has power for the whole update, follow the prompts and do not disconnect until it finishes. Concept2's support pages list the current steps.

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The PM5 monitor on Concept2 rowers, bikes and ski machines runs firmware that Concept2 updates from time to time. Updates can add features, improve app connections and fix small faults. Updating is free and usually takes a few minutes. This guide explains the two ways to do it, what to prepare, and what to try if an update stops partway. Concept2's own instructions are the final word, as the apps and steps change.

Why update the PM5?

Firmware updates can add new display options and workout features, improve Bluetooth and ANT+ connections with apps, and fix bugs. If your PM5 has trouble pairing, shows odd figures or freezes, updating is one of the first things to try. Our guide to the Concept2 PM5 not working covers other fixes.

The PM5 is shared across the RowErg, BikeErg and SkiErg, so the same update steps apply to all three machines. Each machine keeps its own monitor, so update each one separately if you own more than one.

Updates do not delete your saved workouts in the Concept2 Logbook, but it is sensible to sync any workouts stored on the monitor first; see how to use the Concept2 Logbook.

Before you start

Low power is the most common reason an update fails. A dying battery can switch the monitor off midway, which is why fresh batteries come first.

  • Fit fresh batteries if your PM5 uses them, or make sure it has power for the full update.
  • Sync any workouts you want to keep to the Logbook.
  • For the app method, install the latest ErgData from your app store and turn on Bluetooth.
  • For the computer method, download Concept2 Utility from Concept2's website and have a suitable USB cable ready.
  • Allow ten minutes or so when you will not need the machine.

Method 1: ErgData on a phone or tablet

ErgData is Concept2's own app. When you connect it to a PM5, it can check the firmware version and offer an update if one is available.

  1. 1

    Open ErgData and wake the PM5 by pressing a button.

  2. 2

    Connect ErgData to the monitor as the app describes.

  3. 3

    If an update is available, the app will offer it. Accept and follow the prompts.

  4. 4

    Keep the phone close to the monitor and the app open until the update completes.

  5. 5

    When the PM5 restarts, check the version in the monitor's information screen.

Method 2: Concept2 Utility on a computer

Concept2 Utility is a free program for Windows and Mac. It updates the monitor, backs up workouts and manages other settings.

  1. 1

    Install Concept2 Utility from Concept2's website.

  2. 2

    Connect the PM5 to the computer with a USB cable, as Concept2's guide describes.

  3. 3

    Open the Utility. It should detect the monitor and show its firmware version.

  4. 4

    Choose the option to update the firmware and follow the prompts.

  5. 5

    Do not disconnect the cable until the Utility says the update has finished.

Note:Do not unplug the cable, close the app or remove batteries while an update is running. If something goes wrong, follow Concept2's recovery steps rather than forcing a restart repeatedly.

If the update stalls or fails

Start with power. Fit fresh batteries and try again. If you use the app, close and reopen it, move closer to the monitor and turn Bluetooth off and on.

If the app method keeps failing, try the computer method with the Utility, which does not depend on Bluetooth. If the monitor shows an error screen or will not start after an update, contact Concept2 UK support with the monitor's serial number. Concept2 has published recovery steps for this situation.

After the update

Check that your app connections still work, including heart rate straps and training apps. Re-pair them if needed. Look through the display options for anything new; our explainer on the Concept2 force curve shows one of the more useful screens.

If you are choosing a rower with good data, see our best smart rowing machines and best rowing machines for home.

See smart rowers →

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to update the PM5? Yes. Concept2 provides firmware updates and the ErgData and Utility software free of charge.

Will updating delete my workouts? Your Logbook entries online stay safe. Sync any workouts stored only on the monitor before updating to be sure.

How do I check my PM5 firmware version? It appears in the monitor's information menu and in the Concept2 Utility when the monitor is connected.

Can I update a PM3 or PM4 the same way? Older monitors use the Concept2 Utility with a computer. Check Concept2's support pages for your model.

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