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Pulses App: Bluetooth Setup & Troubleshooting

  • Writer: Athlete Analyzer
    Athlete Analyzer
  • Jan 29
  • 2 min read

Achieve 100% stable heart-rate tracking for your group sessions.

While Pulses is built for high-performance tracking, Bluetooth stability is often determined by your environment. Use this checklist to optimize your setup and eliminate dropouts.


Optimize Your "Receiver" Placement

The receiver is the device running Pulses (iPad, iPhone, Mac, or Android). This is the "hub" of your session.


The "Golden Rules" for Placement:


  • Central & Elevated: Place the receiver in the center of the room, ideally on a stand or table.

  • Clear Line of Sight: Bluetooth signals hate obstacles. Avoid placing the receiver behind walls, metal racks, or large mirrors.

  • The 20-Metre Rule: Ensure all participants stay within a 20m (65ft) radius of the receiver for a rock-solid connection.


Eliminate Signal Interference

Think of Bluetooth like a conversation in a crowded room. Other electronics can "shout" over your heart-rate sensors, causing data to freeze or disappear.


The 1–2 Metre Rule To keep the signal clear, keep your receiver (phone or tablet) at least 1–2 metres away from these common "noise" makers:


  • Wi-Fi Routers: These transmit on the same 2.4GHz frequency as Bluetooth, which can cause direct signal collisions.

  • Smart TVs & Large Displays: The large metal panels and internal electronics act as a shield, blocking the signal from reaching your device.

  • Microwaves & Large Speakers: These contain high-power magnets and components that create electromagnetic "noise."

Pro Tip: If you notice frequent dropouts in one specific area of your gym, try moving the receiver just a small distance. In the world of radio waves, a one-metre shift can be the difference between a broken signal and a perfect one.

Pre-Session Device Checklist

Most "sensor not found" issues happen at the hardware level. Before you start:


  • Battery Check: Ensure sensors are charged above 20%.

  • The "Monogamy" Rule: Bluetooth sensors usually only allow one connection. Ensure the sensor isn't currently synced to a participant's personal Garmin/Apple Watch or another phone.

  • Conductivity: Slightly dampen the chest-strap electrodes with water or gel for an immediate connection.

  • Snug Fit: Ensure armbands and straps are tight enough to stay in place during high-intensity movement.


The Right Sensor for the Job

To work with Pulses, your heart-rate sensors must be compatible with Bluetooth. While many sensors look the same, their internal technology varies.


  • Must be Bluetooth-Enabled: Pulses relies on Bluetooth to track data. Ensure your participants are using sensors that support a Bluetooth connection (most modern straps do).

  • Avoid "Legacy" Only Sensors: Some older chest straps only use older radio frequencies (like ANT+) and do not have Bluetooth. These will not appear in the app.

  • Signal "Locking": Remember that a Bluetooth sensor can usually only talk to one device at a time. If it’s already locked onto a personal watch, it won't connect to Pulses.

  • Check the List: If you aren't sure if a specific brand works, check our compatibility guide.



Need to display on a big screen?

Learn how to cast your live heart-rate board to a TV: 👉 TV Display Guide

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