HRM FT4- Quick Question

Hi!

I did some quick research since I've been considering buying an FT4.

Apparently, you can change the batteries yourself but you'll need to buy the sealing ring/battery kit.

Here's what I found from the online user manual (http://www.polar.fi/e_manuals/FT4/Polar_FT4_user_manual_English/manual.pdf)

Changing Batteries
Avoid opening the sealed battery cover during the guarantee period. We recommend that you have the
battery replaced by an authorized Polar Service Center. They test your Polar FT4 for water resistance after
battery replacement and make a full periodic check. Please note the following:
• The low battery indicator is displayed when 10-15% of the battery capacity is left.
• Excessive use of the back light drains the battery more rapidly.
• In cold conditions, the low battery indicator may appear, but will disappear when the temperature rises.
• The back light and sound are automatically turned off when the low battery indicator is displayed. Any alarms set prior to
the appearance of the low battery indicator will remain active.

To change the battery yourself:
Change the sealing ring of the battery cover every time you change the battery. You can purchase the
sealing ring/battery kits at well-equipped Polar retailers and authorized Polar Services. In the USA and
Canada, the additional sealing rings are available at authorized Polar Service Centers only. Keep the
batteries away from children. If swallowed, contact a doctor immediately. Batteries should be disposed of
properly according to local regulations.
When handling a new, fully charged battery, avoid clasp-like contact, i.e. simultaneously from both sides,
with metal or electrically conducting tools, like tweezers. This may short circuit the battery, causing it to
discharge more rapidly. Typically, short circuiting does not damage the battery, but may decrease the
capacity and thus the lifetime of the battery.

1. Open the battery cover with a coin by
turning it from CLOSE to OPEN.
2. • When changing training computer
battery (2a), remove the battery
cover and lift the battery out
carefully with a suitable sized small
rigid stick or bar. However, prefer a
non-metal tool for wrenching the
battery out. Be careful not to
damage the metal sound element
(*) or the grooves. Insert a new
battery inside the cover with the
positive (+) side facing the cover.
• When changing transmitter battery
(2b), place the battery inside the
cover with the positive (+) side
facing the cover.
3. Replace the old sealing ring with a
new one, fitting it snuggly in the cover
groove to ensure water resistance.
4. Put the cover back on and turn it
clockwise to CLOSE.
5. Re-enter the basic settings if you
changed the training computer
batteries.

You're welcome!

I've also considered the FT7 and will likely get it so I can easily change the batteries myself.

I just bought the FT7 this weekend. It has a Energy Pointer..visually shows when your training is burning fat or improving fitness. OwnCal... converts and displays calorie expenditure. The FT4 does the same except it does not have the Energy Pointer. I tried it today and I like it...still getting the hang of it. I wanted one to see just how many calories I actually burn:0) and to push myself harder...