Wireless Connection Options for Tacx Smart Trainers

In order to connect and control a smart trainer a connection needs to be made between the trainer and the application you would like to train with. All Tacx Smart trainers are equipped with two wireless communication technologies:

• Bluetooth

• ANT+ (FE-C)

These communication technologies are used to connect the trainer to a wide variety of applications and devices. Depending on the device or application you would like to train with either a Bluetooth or ANT+ connection can be made. There is no need to make this selection yourself, the application will simply go for the one that it is able to utilize.

Connection Types

There are three types of connections to make between your smart trainer and another application or controller:

• One-way connections

• Two-way connections

• Dual connection

One-Way Connection

A one-way connection is when the application/device is only “listening” to the trainer. The application/device receives performance data (power, speed & cadence) from the trainer. The application/device displays the data. The application doesn't control the resistance of the bike trainer.

NOTE: The Satori Smart is only capable of communicating one-way. Most Garmin watches that are compatible with power, speed, and/or cadence sensors will use a one-way connection if connected to a smart trainer (refer to the owner's manual for your watch for more details).

Two-Way Communication

Two-way communication is when an interactive smart trainer is connected to an application/device, receiving performance data (power, speed & cadence) and sending the resistance set point. This means that with a two-way connection the application/device is able to control the resistance of the trainer. A Smart trainer can only have a single two-way connection with an application/device, meaning a smart trainer cannot be controlled by two applications at the same time.

NOTE: Most newer Edge devices that are compatible with power, speed, and cadence sensors can use a two-way connection if connected to a smart trainer. Older Edge devices will use a one-way connection (refer to the owner's manual for your Edge device for more details).

Dual Connection

Even though only a single two-way connection can be made, it is still possible to connect multiple devices to one trainer. When a two-way connection is made via Bluetooth, the trainer is still sending data over ANT+. This data (power, speed & cadence) sent via ANT+ can be received by other devices such as an Edge bike computer or Forerunner watch.

Hardware Requirements