Timex Data Recorder Down Load FAQ
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Q: How do I transfer data from the Data Recorder to my computer?
A: You need to set up the connection between the Data Recorder and your PC before you can transfer data between the two devices. When you connect the Data Recorder to the USB port on your PC for the first time, Windows will install Human Interface Device drivers. If you are running Windows 98 SE, you may be asked for your Windows CD. Once Windows has installed the USB drivers for the Data Recorder, it will not have to perform the installation again.

Automatic data transfer from the Data Recorder to the PC

Transfer recorded activities from the Data Recorder to the PC by connecting the recorder to an open USB Port on the PC.

NOTE: Automatic transfer will work only if the Timex Trainer Launcher is active. The Launcher is active if the Data Recorder icon appears in your Windows System Tray. (The System Tray is located near the clock on your desktop.)

Manual data transfer from the Data Recorder to the PC

Launch the Timex Trainer software, and select File > Transfer Data from Recorder.

Q: What is the difference between the Timex Speed and Distance vs. GPS 3D?
A: The Timex 3D GPS unit receives positional as well as altitude data from the satellites. Used in conjunction with Trainer 1.3, you can map your routes to analyze you data.

Q: I upgraded my Timex Speed and Distance unit to the new GPS-3D, when I transferred my data into Trainer the graphs are incorrect, why?
A: The new Timex GPS 3-D sensor is only compatible with Trainer 1.3 or higher.

Q: How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?
A: Follow these steps to install the latest version of Timex Trainer software free of charge:

1. Use the Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs function on your PC to uninstall the Timex Trainer software.
2. Download the latest version of the Timex Trainer software from the Timex website here.
3. Run the setup file to install the latest version of Timex Trainer. Your preference settings and activity data will be retained.

Q: How much data can I store in my recorder for use with Trainer Software?
A: The storage capability of the recorder is dependant upon the type of data you are recording for transfer into the Timex Trainer software:

HRM Data Only 72 hours
Speed and Distance Data (GPS) Only 26 hours
HRM/GPS (non 3D) Data 14 hours
HRM/Full 3D GPS Data 7 hours

Q: Since I upgraded to the GPS 3D I have lost data storage capacity on my recorder, how can I increase recording time?
A: As noted above, the recorder used in conjunction with a HRM sensor and GPS 3D will have a total recording time of seven (7) hours. In order to increase the storage capacity of your recorder the change must be made within your Trainer 1.3 Software. Please note the change in recording/transferring preferences will take place after your next data transfer. To maximize storage capacity while still recording HRM and/or GPS follow the steps listed below:

1. Go to EDIT in Timex Trainer
2. Go to Preferences
3. Click on DATA TRANSFER
4. Check the box labeled "Disable location and altitude information in the Data Recorder for greater workout data storage."
   
   NOTE: Making this change will limit your recording to HRM and/or speed and distance data (no positional or altitude data).

Q: In order to increase my storage capacity, I used the "disable location and altitude information in the data recorder for greater workout storage" but when I came back and uploaded my workout I still got location and altitude data, why?
A: Change in recording/transfer preferences will take place after the next data transfer. The same is true if you re-enable the location and altitude information transfer.

Q: Why do single activities sometimes show up as multiple sessions?
A: The most common reason is a loss of signal from the GPS sensor to the Data Recorder. When the signal is lost for an extended period of time, the Data Recorder will automatically start a new activity when it re-acquires the signal from the GPS Sensor. Timex Trainer Software 1.3 and above will prompt user to allow combining of fragmented sessions before transferring into your computer.
Note: It is recommended that you clear the data recorder after merged data has been transferred. If data is not erased it will duplicate fragments can be brought in as new activities.

Q: Where are the activities I uploaded?
A: The activities are located on the day the activity occurred. To locate the activity data that you transfer, click on the date in the Calendar that you completed the activity.

NOTE: Synchronize the Data Recorder to your PC before you use the Data Recorder for the first time. This will ensure your activity data appears on the correct calendar date. If the Data Recorder and the PC are not synchronized, you may have to search for an activity as far back as January 1, 2000, which is the date the recorder defaults to after it, is reset.

Q: I see unrealistic speed values in my Speed and Distance graph. Why are these there and how do I remove them from the graph?
A: Speed spikes usually are generated from the GPS sensor when the satellite signal is reflected from nearby metal, buildings, or other structures. Short duration spikes can be automatically filtered during data transfer by activating the? Smart speed processing filter? To activate the filter follow these steps:

1. Launch the Timex Trainer software.
2. Elect Edit > Preferences.
3. Select the Data Transfer tab, and then click the Use smart speed processing checkbox.

Q: The Average Speed displayed for my activity doesn't seem correct. If I divide my total Distance by the total Duration for my activity, I don't get the same Average Speed shown by the Timex Trainer software. Why is this?
A: In Timex Trainer version 1.1 (and earlier) the average speed was not calculated using the typical distance divided by time equation, but rather by computing the average of all the instantaneous speed readings obtained from the GPS sensor. Upgrade to the latest version of Timex Trainer which uses the expected total distance divided by total time calculation for average speed.

Q: How can I share Timex Trainer data with a friend or my coach?
A: Select File > Export to create a comma separated value (CSV) file of any activity. Import the CSV file into the Timex Trainer software on another PC to view the activity.

NOTE: Timex Trainer 1.0 will not be able to import files from version 1.1 or newer. For best results, both computers should be running the same version of Timex Trainer.

Q: How can I copy and paste all my tabular data?
A: First make sure you are running Timex Trainer version 1.2 or later. If you are not, upgrade to the latest version as described in the FAQ "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?" Next, open the window showing the tabular data for the graph of interest. Then select the tabular data to be copied by clicking and dragging your mouse pointer over the table rows to be copied (note, press Ctrl+A to select the entire table). Finally, click File> Copy to copy the data to the clipboard. The data can now be copied into other applications.

Q: Why doesn't the Timex Trainer software launch after I plug in the Data Recorder?
A: Follow these steps to troubleshoot this problem:

1. Check the USB cable connections. Confirm that the USB cable is securely connected to the Data Recorder device and properly plugged into a USB port on your PC. Disconnect and then reconnect the cable to see if the Trainer launches.
2. Check the USB port operation. Connect a different USB device to the PC to ensure the port is working properly. Restart the PC if the USB port fails to recognize connected USB devices.
   TIP: Connect the USB cable to the Data Recorder first and the PC second. This will reduce the chance of a power surge that can make the USB port fail temporarily.
3. Start the Timex Trainer Launcher application. If the application is not running, connecting the Data Recorder will not start Timex Trainer.
   
   The Launcher program icon will appear in the Windows System Tray if the Launcher is running. If the Launcher icon is not present in the System Tray, select Start > Programs > Timex Trainer > Timex Trainer Launcher to manually start the application.

Q: My Launcher icon no longer appears in the System Tray and Timex Trainer no longer starts up automatically when I connect the Data Recorder to my computer. How do I solve this problem?
A: Restart the computer. If the Launcher still does not appear in the System Tray, uninstall and then reinstall the Timex Trainer software. See "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?" in this document for information about reinstalling Timex Trainer.

Q: Can I move an activity to another day?
A: Yes. First make sure you are running Timex Trainer version 1.2 or later. If you are not, upgrade to the latest version as described in the FAQ "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?" Then, change the date of any activity by double-clicking the activity in the Activity Viewer list on the main screen. An Edit activity dialog window will open. Edit the Date field to show the new desired date then close the window by clicking OK. Your activity will now appear on the new day you specified

Q: I successfully moved an activity to a new date or time and I deleted the original activity. However, the original activity continues to appear after each transfer from the Data Recorder. What can I do?
A: Clear the memory in the Data Recorder to delete the original activity. See "How do I delete data from the Data Recorder?" for instructions.

Q: Why can't I manually edit some of the fields in an activity transferred from the Data Recorder?
A: Timex Trainer version 1.1 (and earlier) did not support editing of the Date, Time, Distance, or Duration data for activities recorded from heart rate monitor and GPS sensors. However, Timex Trainer version 1.2 and newer does support this capability. Upgrade to the latest version of Timex Trainer as described in the FAQ "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?" if you need to edit recorded activities. Please note, editing the Date, Time, Distance or Duration will only affect the summary information and not the graph or tabular data for the activity.

Q: How do I change the description of an activity that appears in the Activity Viewer list on the main screen?
A: Follow these steps to change the description of an activity:

1. Double-click the activity to open it on the main screen.
2. Edit the description in the text box at the bottom of the Edit Activity window.
3. Click OK.
   
   NOTE: If the description is too long to fit in the Description column, only the beginning and end of the text will be displayed.

Q: How do I delete data from the Data Recorder?
A: This can be done three ways:

1. Set the preference in Timex Trainer to Always clear Data Recorder after transferring data.
2. Select the Clear Data Recorder Memory checkbox at the bottom of the Activities Transferred window when new data is transferred to the computer.
3. Select Edit > Preferences > Data Transfer > Clear Memory to manually clear the device memory.

Q: Why does my speed show zero at the beginning of my session?
A: The speed reads zero for two reasons:

1. You are motionless when you start the Data Recorder.
2. The Data Recorder was started prior to the GPS sensor acquiring a lock on the satellite signal, signified by the LED on the GPS sensor changing from red to green. Turn on your Data Recorder after your Speed + Distance sensor has acquired the GPS satellite signal to avoid this problem.

Q: Why would I want to Re compute Time in Zones?
A: You may have changed your zone information after transferring an activity. Or you may want to experiment with different zones and see how much time you spent in them for a particular activity.

Q: I can't find the HID Class Device driver for Windows 98SE. Where can I get it?
A: These drivers are usually found on the Windows Installation disk. If you no longer have the installation disk, contact either Microsoft or the manufacturer of your PC to request operating system replacement disks.

Q: The Print Preview dialog appears in English even though I installed the software in a different language. Is there any way to have the Print Preview window appear in my native language?
A: Yes, Timex Trainer version 1.2 (and later) fixes this problem. Upgrade to the latest version of Timex Trainer as described in the FAQ "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?"

Q: My computer displays an error message such as, "Class does not support Automation or does not support expected interface" or "The database is either open by another process or is not found. Timex Trainer will not start". What does this mean?
A: These messages indicate a problem with accessing the Microsoft Access Database file that is used to store your preferences and data. Normally these messages only appear the first time the software is run after installation. If you continue to receive these messages, close the application and restart the computer. If this doesn't help, go to the Microsoft website and download the latest versions of MDAC (currently 2.8) and the JET database engine (currently 4.0) for your PC.

Q: Will the Timex Trainer software work on a Macintosh computer?
A: No. The Timex Trainer software is designed for Windows operating system only. Although Microsoft Virtual PC on the Macintosh will recognize the Data Recorder and run the Timex Trainer software, the USB communication between the two does not work.

Q: I upgraded to the latest version of Timex Trainer software, however I am now missing some functionality or have lost my original language setting. What happened?
A: These types of problems can occur if the new version of Timex Trainer software is installed without first un-installing a previous version. To fix the problem you will need to remove and then re-install the software. Follow the steps described in the FAQ "How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?" to correct the problem.

Q: The background colors in my Trainer Software appear to be off, what is the recommended color setting for use with trainer Software?
A: The recommended color setting for your computer is 256, if your computer is set at 16 or 64 colors the background colors in Trainer will be off.

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A: The LED on the recorder flashes red when the memory is full, download data to your computer and clear the memory to continue use.

NOTE: See “What LED Flashes Mean” in Timex Trainer Help for more information on your specific device.

Q: I'm already recording my heart rate data with the Data Recorder. How do I get it to also record GPS information (or vice versa)?
A: The LED will flash green at a regular interval if the Data Recorder is synchronized with one sensor. Press the push button on the Data Recorder to synchronize it with a second sensor. The recorder will immediately attempt to synchronize with the second sensor. If it synchronizes successfully with the second sensor the LED will begin to flash green in an irregular interval.

NOTE: This may result in two consecutive activities appearing in the Timex Trainer. The first activity will report the recorded data of one device, and the second activity will report the recorded data from both devices. The best way to start a new combination speed and distance and heart rate monitor session is to have both sensors operating before turning on the Data Recorder. (HINT: Recorder on last (after both GPS and HRM are in sync) and then off first when your workout session is complete)

Q: How do I set or change the time in my Data Recorder?
A: Follow these steps to use your PC to set or change the time in your Data Recorder.

1. Make sure your PC displays the correct date and time.
2. Connect the Data Recorder to your PC.
3. Start Timex Trainer, if it doesn't start automatically.
4. Timex Trainer will set the Data Recorder's internal time and date to the time and date of your PC.

Q: How do I change the battery in my Data Recorder?
A: You need a jeweler's screwdriver with a #0 Phillips head and a new CR 2032 (or equivalent) battery. Follow these steps to replace the battery:

1. Transfer any activity data stored in the Data Recorder that you want to save to your PC.
2. Slide the clothing clip off the back of the unit to reveal the battery cover (case back).
3. Use the screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the battery cover in place, and pull off the cover.
4. Carefully remove the battery and insert a new one of the same type. Make sure that the + side of the battery is visible after it's inserted. Be very careful not to touch, move, or get dirt on the rubber gasket in the battery compartment that surrounds the battery. You may compromise the water resistance if the gasket is damaged or incorrectly placed when securing the case back.
5. Put the cover back and secure it with the four screws you removed in step 3. Make sure that the lettering on the cover is facing up. Don't over-tighten as this may also affect water resistance.
6. Slide the clip back in place.
7. Press the reset button on the back of the Data Recorder to the left of the clip. On some models this may be a silver button while on others it may be recessed within a small hole. For the recessed button, carefully insert a paper clip into the hole to reset the Data Recorder.
8. Press the push button on the front to make sure that the Data Recorder is working properly.
9. Reset the time in the Data Recorder before recording your next activity. Connect the Data Recorder to the PC, select Edit > Preferences, select the Data Transfer tab, and click the Synchronize Time to PC button.

Q: I upgraded my Timex Speed and Distance Unit to the new GPS-3D, when I transferred my data into Trainer the graphs are incorrect, why?
A: The new Timex GPS 3-D sensor is only compatible with Trainer 1.3 or higher.

Q: How do I upgrade to the latest version of the Timex Trainer software?
A: Follow these steps to install the latest version of Timex Trainer software free of charge:

1. Use the Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs function on your PC to uninstall the Timex Trainer software.
2. Download the latest version of the Timex Trainer software from the Timex website here.
3. Run the setup file to install the latest version of Timex Trainer. Your preference settings and activity data will be retained.

Q: How much data can I store in my recorder for use with Trainer Software?
A: The storage capability of the recorder is dependant upon the type of data you are recording for transfer into the Timex Trainer software:

HRM Data Only 72 hours
Speed and Distance Data (GPS) Only 26 hours
HRM/GPS (non 3D) Data 14 hours
HRM/Full 3D GPS Data 7 hours

Q: Since I upgraded to the GPS 3D I have lost data storage capacity on my recorder, how can I increase recording time?
A: As noted above, the recorder used in conjunction with a HRM sensor and GPS 3D will have a total recording time of seven (7) hours. In order to increase the storage capacity of your recorder the change must be made within your Trainer 1.3 Software. Please note the change in recording/transferring preferences will take place after your next data transfer. To maximize storage capacity while still recording HRM and/or GPS follow the steps listed below:

1. Go to EDIT in Timex Trainer
2. Go to Preferences
3. Click on DATA TRANSFER
4. Check the box labeled "Disable location and altitude information in the Data Recorder for greater workout data storage."
   
   NOTE: Making this change will limit your recording to HRM and/or speed and distance data (no positional or altitude data will be recorded).

Q: In order to increase my storage capacity, I used the “disable location and altitude information in the data recorder for greater workout storage” but when I came back and uploaded my workout I still got location and altitude data, why?
A: Change in recording/transfer preferences will take place after the next data transfer. The same is true if you re-enable the location and altitude information transfer.

Q: Is my Data Recorder compatible with the new Timex GPS 3D?
A: If recording HRM and GPS or GPS 3D (without HRM) you can use the original Timex recorder or the Timex Recorder 2. If you are recording a combination of HRM and GPS 3D with directional information you will need to upgrade to the Data Recorder 2.

Q: I would like to develop my own software to communicate with the Data Recorder. Is there a Software Development Kit (SDK) available?
A: Yes, the data recorder I/O module logger.dll is published under open source license in sourceforge.net.