Road Cycling - Polar 720i + SigmaTel USB IR

I bought a new Polar 720i a few days ago, but decided not to buy the polar IR interface, instead going with a generaic USB -> IR interface. I got home and nothing worked when attempting to connect to the HRM. I searched on here and the rest of the internet, and noticed that many people were having the same problem. Well, there is a problem with the newer sigmatel USB->IR bridges:

Click Here for the bad news (http://www.sigmatel.com/documents/STIR_FAQS_1_0_2.pdf)

Scroll down to about page 7.

I went our and bought the Polar USB IR interface at LBS. It works flawlessly with windows XP and the polar 720i (with the latest PPP software). Just thought I would share the information I found in case it helps someone in the future.

HTH,
--Eric

Interesting, I wonder who's at fault here?

What I'd really like is if the Polar IR unit would function as a generic IR unit so I could sync my PDA without needing the cradle (work PDA so I have to carry the cradle home on weekends) but as near as I can tell it installs in a manner that doesn't allow me that flexibility.

What version of the polar software are you using. I sent an e-mail to Polar when I bought mine and they told me to upgrade to version 4 and I should have no problem with any IRDA adapter. Just a thought.

Philli...

Um, the pdf page #7 just states that the IR unit won't work with usb ports that have no power supplied to them. Not that it doesn't work.

Unless you are talking about the paragraph which says "Why doesn’t My Polar Heart Rate Monitor Work With My IrDA Adapter?".

Um, the pdf page #7 just states that the IR unit won't work with usb ports that have no power supplied to them. Not that it doesn't work.

Unless you are talking about the paragraph which says "Why doesn’t My Polar Heart Rate Monitor Work With My IrDA Adapter?".

Uhh, yeah, that would be what I am referring to.

Uhh, yeah, that would be what I am referring to.

:lol:

It is apparently the IR device on the S720i. Firstly, the new S725 has the newest IR component, and is able to communicate with ALMOST all IR devices. The S720 and S710 are not outdated, just that it does not connect with a wide range of IR devices, supposedly only a few. That was what I found out when I got my USB IR interface swapped when it broke down.

The Polar USB IR interface will always work with Polar HRM and vice versa, but the Polar HRM will not necessarily work with all IR devices.

Hi, is there already an solution for the problem with a sigmatel iRDa interface and the
Polar 720i?
I have just buy an Hama iRDa interface (sigmatel) and it did't work. By chance I came to your forum.
(I am a Dutch speaker, so my Englisch is not so good, but I do my best)

Well I purchased a S720i about two weeks ago. I have a Dell laptop and I synched via the IR port on the first try. Had to turn on the IR window in the BIOS first, but once done, smooth sailing. Download is fast (2.5 hour ride) and all data conveniently displayed. It is truly an amazing product.

If you have a laptop, you probably have an IR port. On the Dell it's incorporated into the hard drive door.

Although not exactly related to the original poster, here is a detailed webpage for Dell laptop users to sync their Polar's using the built in IR. Leesub was able to do it on the fly, but my laptop needed some tweaking.

http://www.jimcarson.com/archives/000094.shtml

I have a Dell Inspiron 4150, and after going through alot of hassles, I read a small section in the owners manual that states that you have to 'undock' the computer for the IR to work, otherwise flawless, and a great unit. I have used it in many conditons, light mtb, and road cycling. It's been great for approx. 8 months, no complaints, with the exception of having to press the buttons hard to get it working. You can change logo's too, go to the Polar web site, and they have a variety to pic from or create your own.

Anyone with experience using the 710-720-725 with Mac?

I've developed a series of techniques, but would like to hear more about it.

Rob

Interesting stuff here. I went cheap and bought the 150. Will it also interface with my Dell 4150 Inspiron via the IR? Smack me if I'm sounding like a dummy.