Connecting a Classic (non-smart) Trainer using Virtual Watts (ANT+)

This article will provide instructions for connecting a Classic trainer to the app. This trainer does not offer any data on its own and cannot be controlled by the app.  This setup requires a compatible Speed Sensor. If you are unsure what kind of trainer you have, or how to connect, please refer to Compatible Trainers [SYSTM] to find out how to connect your trainer. If you are connecting a power meter, please refer to the setup instructions found here: Connecting a Power Meter (ANT+)

 

Please note that ANT+ connections will require the use of an ANT+ dongle and are only available on Mac and Windows.  Please see this article to learn more about ANT+ connections.  

 

In order for the app to report data and control the trainer,  trainers and sensors will need to be connected to the app from the device connections screen in the workout player.  In this connections setup, we will connect a speed sensor and configure the app to report Virtual Watts. Virtual Watts are a calculated power estimate based on a known power curve for your trainer.  For more information, please refer to this article.  

 

Select your workout from the Library and press the Start Workout button.  

 

Start_workout_button.png

This will launch the Device Connections screen.  If your screen does not open automatically, please tap the gear icon in the top right corner of your page.  Please ensure that your screen says that ANT+ is ON.  

 

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Activate your sensors then click the Add Devices button on your screen.  Cadence sensors will require you to spin the cranks, heart rate monitors will require you to be wearing them.  Moistening the leads on the heart rate monitor strap can help if your sensor doesn't show up in the device list.  

 

Selecting your sensor

Clicking the Add Devices button will open up the left-hand panel of the Device Connections screen.  With your sensors activated, you should be able to see your speed sensor in the list of available devices to add.  Click on connect to add the device to the right-hand panel of the Device Connections screen.  (If you have more than one speed sensor on your bike, it is worthwhile noting which ANT+ ID is associated with each sensor to choose the one you would like to connect to).

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Once the device is properly connected, it should appear with a white box around it in the right-hand panel. 

 

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Once the speed sensor is connected, we can configure the app for Virtual Watts.  Please select the Show Virtual Watts button to open this configuration panel.  Select your trainer manufacturer and model from the dropdown lists.  Be sure to select the proper settings if your trainer has manual settings.  You will want the in-app settings to match the trainer's manual settings.  Select your wheel size. Then click the Add button at the bottom.  

 

Configure_Virtual_Watts_ANT.png

Your trainer should now appear in the right-hand panel of the Device Connections screen, and it should have a  power_icon.png Power Icon next to it.  If the icon is not green, please click on it.  

 

Virtual_Watts_connected_ANT.png

Your app is now configured to report Virtual Watts in the app. 

To connect other sensors, please see this article:  Connect your Sensors

 

 

 

 

 

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