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Troubleshooting the fēnix Chronos or fēnix 5 Series Altimeter and Barometer
When experiencing incorrect readings from the altimeter or barometer sensors on a watch, there are a few factors to consider that might be impacting these readings, as well as some steps that can help increase their accuracy. For information on how these sensors work, see - Understanding How the Barometric Altimeter Sensor Works on an Outdoor Watch.
Troubleshooting the Barometer and Altimeter
One of the main troubleshooting steps to perform when your notice your altimeter or barometer are off is to calibrate the sensor. The fēnix Chronos and fēnix 5 series offers two ways to calibrate; auto calibrate and manually calibrating.
Auto Calibration
These settings allow you to control how calibration of the altimeter happens while you are in an activity.
On - The watch will calibrate based off GPS elevation.
Off - The watch will not perform any calibration during or at the start of the activity.
Calibrating the altimeter should always be done outside with a clear view of the sky.
Hold Up to enter the Main Menu.
Scroll to Settings and select Sensors & Accessories.
Select Altimeter.
Select Auto Cal.
Select On or Off.
Manually Calibrating the Altimeter
NOTE: Accuracy of this mode is based on your GPS satellite strength. It is recommended to be outside and away from any obstructions for the best accuracy.
If the altimeter of fēnix 5 series watch is displaying an elevation that is off significantly, it should be manually calibrated. Below are the options for calibrating the altimeter.
Known Elevation (Yes) - Use this option to calibrate if you know the current elevation. This option offers the most accurate calibration.
Use GPS - This mode will determine your elevation through GPS triangulation. Accuracy of this mode is based on your satellite reception strength. It is recommended to be outside and away from any obstructions for the best results.
Calibrating the altimeter should always be done outside with a clear view of the sky.
Hold Up to enter the Main Menu
Scroll to Settings and select Sensors & Accessories
Select Altimeter
Select Calibrate
Select an option and follow onscreen prompts
NOTE: Allow the watch to air dry before calibrating the barometric altimeter after doing any water based activities.
Other Factors to Consider
Some factors that might impact the function of the altimeter and barometer include: rapidly moving air entering the sensor port while participating in high speed activities; and soap, dirt, or salts from sweat which can clog the sensor port.
Cleaning the Sensor Port
Debris blocking the sensor port will need to be rinsed free. The sensor port is located on the right side of the watch, between the Start/Stop and the Back/Lap.
Run low pressure, warm water over the sensor port
Gently remove any visible debris IMPORTANT: Do not put any objects into the sensor port!