Polar Heart Rate Monitor Problem

papamike

Hi there,

I'm relatively new to running and recently purchased a Polar RS200 to keep an eye on heart rate while training. Recently the signal between the transmitter and the watch is dropping and I'm not sure what the problem is.

I have an idea that it could be the battery in the transmitter as I make sure to wet the electrodes before use and wash the strap afterwards but I only bought it last October. Anyone else had similar problems? If it is the battery in the transmitter is it advisable to change it myself or should it really go back to Polar?
Thanks

Krusty_Clown

Isn't it a sealed unit? I had a problem where I reckon an iPod was interfering with the signal. Was fine when I wasn't wearing the iPod. Can you try someone else's transmitter?

Abhainn

Hello papamike

Does the reading on your receiver (watch) display 00?
Ensure the Wearlink is fitting securely and to moisten your skin where the electrode is in contact with.

I use the RS200SD during my runs and have had some problems. I'm on my second Wearlink now. I replaced the battery on the first after 70 hrs operation or so (it says it should only be need replacing after 2000hrs).
3 days before the DM in Oct it died again (displayed 00 on watch)
I replaced it the unit wit a new one and that died after 20 hrs use last wek .

I returned both Wearlinks to Polar UK on the 16th Jan for repair. I received an email this morning saying both units were repaired by the 19th (FIC) and on route back. So I should be receiving them today.
That's good service!
I have requested repair infomation though.

papamike

Thanks for the replies guys.

Initially I thought the problem might be the MP3 player but it's not that.

The reading on the watch shows 00 and I try to make sure that the skin and electrodes are wet so it seems to be a battery problem. Although I would say it has only been used about 30 hours since purchase due to an injury.

Abhainn, did you have any problems changing the battery yourself and did you get a new sealing ring or just reuse the old one? I might have a go at changing the battery and if that doesn't solve it I'll probably send to to Polar UK

Abhainn

Email from Polar just now.

I have had a word with the technician in question.

The units were corroded were it fits to the strap.
When the transmitter is not being used please ensure the items are left unclipped.
Leaving the transmitter connected to the strap is the main cause of this.

I did have a habit of not unclipping one side of the strap all the time. The manual does mention to un clip both when unused. However I did inspect the units for any corresion before I returned them and have to say didn't appear to be any.

You can easily replace battery without sending it to Polar. But the removable cover can be easily damaged as the plastic is soft. Use a large flat head screw driver to un lock.

papamike

Thanks Abhainn.

I do the same thing and leave one side clipped in all the time.

I'll have a go at changing the battery but if it is a corrosion problem I'd imagine I'll need to get a new transmitter.

hot to trot

The diagram on the instruction book wasnt very clear to me and I have been wetting the 2 "female" parts under the tap before I connect the transmitter. I just realised that it is the soft grey bands on the strap itself I should be wetting.Doh!
Do I only wet the strap or should I continue to wet the connection points as well?

jlang

Don't wet the metal contacts where the transmitter clips to the strap. Do wet the grey bits where the strap contacts the skin.

louthandproud

papamike wrote: »

Hi there,

I'm relatively new to running and recently purchased a Polar RS200 to keep an eye on heart rate while training. Recently the signal between the transmitter and the watch is dropping and I'm not sure what the problem is.

I have an idea that it could be the battery in the transmitter as I make sure to wet the electrodes before use and wash the strap afterwards but I only bought it last October. Anyone else had similar problems? If it is the battery in the transmitter is it advisable to change it myself or should it really go back to Polar?
Thanks

Batteries can often be quite old and run down when they come with new kit.

I have a polar and I change the batteries in the transmitter once per year weather or not it shows signs of needing new batteries. So far I have had no problems. I do also clean the electrode and the button type connectors every now and again.

hot to trot

OOps I have been running them under the tap to give them a good soaking! Any advice what I should do now?

Funkyzeit

hot to trot wrote: »

OOps I have been running them under the tap to give them a good soaking! Any advice what I should do now?

DOH... Being doing the exact same for over a year. Mr HR reading does spike a lot (i.e jumps up to 220ish before coming back down to normal). And now I know why...:o

topper75

I have had excellent experience of their repair service in the UK for what it is worth.