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PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 17th, 2024, 9:35 am
by peteralove
I have recently purchased a 2nd hand Concept2 Model D rower - date code 2892014.
The rower is fine but I have a firmware issue with the PM5.
The PM5 firmware no is 15(!), it clearly needs updating, probably has never been updated. However;

- I cannot use the ErgData App as the PM5 displays no ‘Connect’ facility. (firmware too old I assume)

- I cannot use the Concept2 Utility as I have a Chromebook and .exe files will not open in Chrome.


All the methods of updating the firmware that I have seen on the Concept2 websites require either the ErgData app or the Concept2 Utility. In view of the above I am stuck.

Is anyone able to provide a solution?

Peter L

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 17th, 2024, 4:42 pm
by Sakly
peteralove wrote:
March 17th, 2024, 9:35 am
All the methods of updating the firmware that I have seen on the Concept2 websites require either the ErgData app or the Concept2 Utility. In view of the above I am stuck.

Is anyone able to provide a solution?
There is a possibility to update via USB stick.
Obviously you need a system to prepare the stick, but that could be done on any system of a friend, at work or elsewhere.

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 18th, 2024, 1:27 pm
by Aegle
I recently updated a PM5 with older firmware that didn't support OTA updates, with a USB stick.

In your case, I can confirm what Sakly stated - you do need to get to a computer with a USB port. Library, perhaps, if the USB ports are not disabled? You might also try Staples or the like.

Note the USB stick must be empty and formatted per the Concept2 update instructions. From there, it was straightforward, and there were no issues. The update itself took 10 or 15 minutes.

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 19th, 2024, 1:46 pm
by Markbods
I have a Chromebook and had the same issue.
If you email concept2 they will send you a file that you just extract onto the usb and it works on the pm5, but he instructions are simple, and from then on its over Bluetooth via the app.

I think I had to put a formatted thumb drive in the pm5 initially to set up the file structure and then it's all on the Chromebook.

You only need to do it once and it's not too complicated.

Hope that helps

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 21st, 2024, 4:23 am
by Carl Watts
Find someone with a proper laptop running Windows 10 or 11.

Use the C2 Utility and a USB cable, works every time.

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: March 21st, 2024, 5:37 pm
by MysticMelody
One workaround you might try is using a friend's computer or a public one with Windows or macOS to run the Concept2 Utility. If that's not an option, you could also reach out directly to Concept2 customer support. They're usually pretty helpful and might have alternative solutions or be able to guide you through a manual firmware update process.

Another thing to explore is whether there are any third-party tools or apps compatible with Chromebooks that can handle the firmware update.

Re: PM5 Firmware Updateing Problem

Posted: April 5th, 2024, 4:16 pm
by Markbods
peteralove wrote:
March 17th, 2024, 9:35 am
I have recently purchased a 2nd hand Concept2 Model D rower - date code 2892014.
The rower is fine but I have a firmware issue with the PM5.
The PM5 firmware no is 15(!), it clearly needs updating, probably has never been updated. However;

- I cannot use the ErgData App as the PM5 displays no ‘Connect’ facility. (firmware too old I assume)

- I cannot use the Concept2 Utility as I have a Chromebook and .exe files will not open in Chrome.


All the methods of updating the firmware that I have seen on the Concept2 websites require either the ErgData app or the Concept2 Utility. In view of the above I am stuck.

Is anyone able to provide a solution?

Peter L
Did you get it sorted