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Troubleshooting Wireless Sensor Pairing With an Outdoor Handheld

When using an ANT+ wireless sensor with a Garmin Outdoor handheld, it is possible to lose connection and experience issues when pairing the two products.

ANT+ Sensors Compatible with Outdoor Handhelds

  • Garmin Speed/Cadence Sensor 2
  • GSC™ 101
  • Heart Rate Monitor (HRM)
  • Tempe

Resolving Pairing Issues with ANT+ Sensors and Outdoor Handhelds


Update the Software on the Handheld

ANT+ pairing issues can result from out-of-date software on the handheld. For steps to update software on your handheld, see - Installing Software Updates to Outdoor/Marine Handhelds.

Ensure the Sensor is Awake and Active

  • Speed/Cadence Sensor 2: Rotate the crank arm two times to wake the sensor.
    The LED flashes green for five seconds to indicate activity and flashes red to indicate a low battery level.
  • GSC 10: Press the reset button (white button)
  • HRM: After moistening the strap and placing on body, walk around or do light exercise to elevate your heart rate and wake the sensor.
  • Tempe™: No action is needed to activate the sensor.

Activate Sensor in Handheld Settings

If the ANT+ sensor is not detected by the handheld, ensure it has been activated in the settings of the handheld. On most handheld models, ANT+ sensors can be activated from Setup > Sensors.

For exact steps, view the owner's manual.

Restart the Scan for the Sensor

If the ANT+ sensor is not found after activating, prompt the handheld to search for it again. From Setup > Sensors, select Search for New. When the sensor is found, the handheld may prompt you to select the sensor (e.g. select 123456 - ANT).

For exact steps, view the owner's manual.

Check Installation or Fit of the Sensor

Cycling Sensor

Misalignment or incorrect installation of cycling sensors can lead to pairing issues. Check on the bike that the sensors are installed properly according to the owner's manual.

Additional Tips
  • Speed/Cadence Sensor 2: Ensure all components of the sensor are securely fastened to the bike and properly aligned.
  • GSC 10: Ensure the magnet is as close as possible to the sensor without touching

Heart Rate Monitor

For best detection and transmission of heart rate data, the Heart Rate Monitor should be moistened and worn as tight as possible without being uncomfortable.

Reset the Sensor

  1. Remove the battery from the ANT+ sensor.
  2. Leave the battery out of the sensor for 5 minutes.
  3. Reinstall the battery.

After resetting the sensor, prompt the handheld to search for it again.

Use a New Battery

An ANT+ sensor not detected by the handheld should have its battery replaced. For battery specifications and replacement instructions, view the owner's manual.

After replacing the battery, prompt the handheld to search for the ANT+ sensor.

Avoid Potential Interference

Interference from other electrical devices such as computer monitors, televisions, Wi-Fi routers, cordless phones, or microwave ovens among others can contribute to ANT+ pairing issues. When pairing, move away from sources of interference and other ANT+ sensors that may be trying to pair to the handled.

For more information, see Related.

1 The GSC 10 has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase.

Related

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