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Steps to Calibrate the Barometric Altimeter on Venu and vívoactive 4 Series
NOTE: Content from this FAQ also applies to the Hero and Legacy watch models.
What Is the Purpose of the Barometric Altimeter Sensor?
The barometric altimeter is used to detect air pressure change. Information from the sensor is used for the Floors Climbed feature on the device as well as elevation data when recording an outdoor GPS activity.
Where Is It Located?
The sensor is located inside the device. The following watches feature small port holes that allow the sensor to detect pressure changes. Keeping these ports free and clear of any debris will improve the sensor's accuracy.
Legacy Hero Series - First Avenger | Captain Marvel watches
Legacy Saga Series - Rey™ | Darth Vader™ watches
vívoactive® 4 | vívoactive® 4S
Venu®
How Do I Calibrate It?
There are two ways to calibrate your barometric altimeter. Choose an option below to reveal instructions.
Calibrate the Sensor Using GPS
You can calibrate the sensor with GPS when you follow these steps:
While outdoors, select an outdoor activity profile.
Wait for the device to acquire a GPS signal. A signal is acquired when you see a green ring on the screen with the message GPS Ready.
Wait an additional 30 seconds after acquiring a satellite signal before starting or exiting the activity.
Waiting for 30 seconds will result in the altimeter being automatically calibrated. No message will appear. Simply waiting the 30 seconds allows the calibration to be complete.
Calibrate the Sensor Using the Garmin Connect™ App
If you are running software version 5.60 or higher on your device, you can calibrate the sensor using the Garmin Connect app by following these steps:
Make sure cellular data and location services are enabled for the Garmin Connect app on your phone. (For help managing your phone permissions, see:
Open the Garmin Connect app on your phone and verify your device is connected. The device status ring will display a green dot at the top of the Home page when connected.
While connected to the Garmin Connect app and outdoors, select an outdoor activity profile on your device.
Wait for the device to acquire a GPS signal. A signal is acquired when you see a green ring on the screen with the message GPS Ready.
Once GPS is acquired, you can start your activity.
After completing these steps, your device should update current the elevation using digital elevation mapping from Garmin Connect. After the initial calibration, your barometer will take over. No message will appear when the calibration is complete.
