the battery - how long does it last

[johnlvs2run]

How low does the battery go before it needs replacing?

The one my pm3 is at 65 percent.

Also, does leaving it plugged into the computer all the time when the computer is off drain the batter.

[Citroen]

Also, does leaving it plugged into the computer all the time when the computer is off drain the battery.

No. The USB supplies a 5V 100mA source when the PC is powered up, when the PC is off it doesn't act as a sink.

The PM3 (on a model D) has the power generation feature, that will make the batteries last for much longer than on a model C.

PM4 has a re-chargeable battery.

[PaulS]

The PM3 will actually indicate when there is not enough power remaining to boot it up for use, then while the Erg is being used (flywheel spinning), no battery power is being used. If you do a lot of looking around in the various menus (without rowing) and such, it will drain the batteries more quickly, but my first PM3 was at 65% after about 2 years of use, and I think the person that purchased it has not had to change the batteries in the year they have had it. So it could be a very long time, it just depends on the way you use it.

[Tyn]

There is over 8mm on our pm3 and I changed the batts ones!
I think the non-powered usb killed the first pair!

Don't play around with your pm3/4,
just row!!

[Byron Drachman]

When you're done rowing the PM3 turns off in about four minutes. However, if you push the button at the lower right hand corner (menu/back) four times, the PM3 turns off immediately. At least that saves four minutes of battery drain each time.

Byron

[johnlvs2run]

Thanks for all the feedback.

I'm wondering because the battery level stayed at 78 to 80 percent a long time, and now seems to have gone to 65 percent rather quickly.

Also it's fading a bit.

I usually turn the monitor off right away but not sure how much difference that makes, maybe the button clicks use more energy than is saved.