PM5 rest timer running slow

[stu84]

I've got a PM5 on one of our Rowers where the rest timer is slow, despite the work timer being fine.

I've tried running diagnostics with the C2 utility but it's not clear that the results have been uploaded and I have had no confirmation email. I've also emailed info@ and not had replies like I used to get. I have also tried updating firmware, pin reset, factory reset and replacing batteries.

During rest intervals the clock ticks down slowly, giving an extra 9s per minute or so. It is not generating any error codes or behaving oddly in any other ways.

Video of two PM5s side by side here (left hand PM5 has the error):
https://photos.app.goo.gl/1KkHdB7M4ErbUjrMA

Any one seen this or have an idea if it's fixable? I've got a growing collection of semi broken PM5s with probable hardware issues from our club so would like to be able to fix them on occasion!

[Tsnor]

At rest when the flywheel spins down power comes from the battery (vs. the generator during work pieces). Batteries run at lower voltage as they hit end of life.

Does the PM5 turn on when you hit a button, or do you need to row a few strokes? In history does the pm5 have the correct day/time ?

If you run active rest (say row 3:00 splits during rest instead of stopping) does the clock also slow down during rest?

No clue what type of oscillator the PM5 uses, or whether it is sensitive to voltage. But I'd start by testing the battery because it's easy.

[Carl Watts]

Are you updating the firmware on all the clubs PM5's ?

If a firmware update doesn't fix it and you have a brand new set of quality Alkaline only batteries in it, then there is not a lot you can do.

The very first PM5's are now getting pretty old and are starting to fall over, you cannot expect a bit of electronics at this consumer level to last more than 10 to 15 years tops.

I repair the Concept 2 monitors for New Zealand.

[louiseravot]

Sounds like a hardware timing issue with the PM5’s rest timer. Since firmware updates and resets didn’t help, it’s likely a faulty internal clock or component. You might need to contact Concept2 support directly or consider replacing the unit if repair isn’t feasible.

[stu84]

Thanks all. To answer those queries:
- I've tried swapping batteries (generally stick to new Duracells having had trouble with rechargeables)
- Firmwares all up to date

Re: older PM5s, I don't have specific dates per unit but the majority of ours are under 10 years old (based on purchase of ergs, and replacement of PMs). We have 15 machines, mostly black, and I've bought about 5 or 6 replacement PM5s in the last 2-3 years.

More generally: Issues that have been visible on some of the duds are down to condensation. Though the gym is well ventilated I think in winter the kit gets cold but in busy sessions the humidity will be high. On some problem PM5s there's been visible corrosion on the circuit boards (sometimes you can see patchiness on the back of the screens too). I haven't yet opened this one up - but it's started misbehaving well into the warmest part of the year.

[Carl Watts]

The PM5 will last longer if you clear cote the boards with a conformal coating like Electrolube HFA or CPL. You need to brush it on and keep it away from the LCD connector. I spray the can into a sealed jar and brush it on.

You can tell how old the PM5 is from the firmware version and they have a Day of the year/ year date code in them.

Corrosion is a pure age thing, the longer its exposed the bigger the problem.