Issue Syncing an ANT+ Fitness Device with Garmin Express

The following FAQ covers troubleshooting for Garmin devices that sync data wirelessly through an ANT+ stick. If you are having an issue with syncing a device that is connected to a computer through a USB cable see:  Fitness Device Fails to Sync Successfully Using Garmin Express

If your Garmin ANT+ fitness device is unable to successfully sync with Garmin Express, below are some troubleshooting steps that you can try to solve your problem.

NOTE: This article assumes your device has been successfully paired with Garmin Express. If you are unable to complete the initial pairing process, see Related content at the bottom of this FAQ.

Steps to Solve Most Device Communication Issues:

1. Verify that the USB ANT stick is properly connected to the computer

   • Connect the ANT stick to a different USB port

   • Avoid connecting the ANT stick through a USB hub, extension cable, laptop dock, or USB port on the monitor or keyboard

2. Eliminate potential obstacles to wireless communication

   • Place the device within 9 feet (3 meters) of the ANT stick

   • ANT devices broadcast at 2.4 GHz, which is a frequency used by many other wireless devices. Avoid placing devices that use Bluetooth, WiFi, or any other wireless communication protocol directly next to or between the ANT stick and device.  It may be necessary to turn Bluetooth off on these devices or turn the device off.

3. Verify that the memory on the device is not running low. Once an activity is uploaded to Garmin Connect it can be deleted from the device.

4. Ensure that the device is not in power save mode
   • Forerunner 610, 410, 405CX and 405 only - see the owner's manual for assistance

Continue below if the issue persists.

Garmin Express Specific Steps:

1. Ensure Garmin Express is up to date

2. Verify the correct device is selected in Garmin Express

   1. Click Tools & Content

   2. Confirm that the serial number shown matches the serial number printed on the label of the device

   3. If the serial number does not match, click Home  and select the correct device or click Add a Device to add the device to Express

3. Check the Upload Preferences in Garmin Express to ensure that consent has been given to upload data to Garmin Connect:

   1. Select Tools & Content

   2. Select Privacy

   3. Select Change Upload Preferences

4. Ensure that the time, date, and time zone on the computer are set correctly

5. If there are corrupt files on the device, Garmin Express may display the error Some files could not be uploaded to Garmin Connect as shown below: 
   
   • If this error occurs, the activity or activities listed will need to be deleted from the watch and the computer.  For instructions, see Related Content.
     
     
6. Restart the computer

7. Create a test activity or record 50 steps on the device and attempt to sync the data again

   • The test activity can be deleted from Garmin Connect after a successful sync