| Q:
Why didn't Polar use GPS technology for Speed and Distance for the
S625X Running Computer?
We considered both GPS and inertial technologies carefully
before choosing to go with inertial
GPS has some positive elements but we chose the best overall
technology for running anywhere and in any conditions
We recognized that existing GPS was too heavy and consumed
too much power for an application that was meant for runners who
are demanding and relatively heavy users and train frequently.
Existing GPS applications are simply not as practical for someone
who is running frequently because of the need to constantly recharge/replace
batteries and because of the discomfort of hauling abound a large
GPS unit on the upper body.
When used in a real life running scenario- GPS is no more
accurate that inertial sensor technology
With inertial technology we saw that we could provide
the best solution for runners who want accurate and reliable speed
and distance measurement that performs in all conditions (indoors
and outside), in urban city settings with tall buildings, even
in very heavily wooded trails and twisting turning trails and
tight turning paths.
Q: GPS technology is considered advanced by many. What about
the Polar inertial sensor technology that Polar uses?
The inertial technology that Polar uses is very advanced,
inertial technology is used in aerospace positioning and guidance
systems, industrial robotics and in advanced automotive applications
such as active suspensions and emergency airbag deployment to
name a few
The inertial sensors measure the acceleration of the S1
footpod more than 1000 times per second and use this data with
advanced algorithms to calculate foot angles and gait velocity
The Polar S1 running speed and distance sensor is NOT
A PEDOMETER. Instead, it is very advanced running speed sensor.
Q: GPS provides speed and distance while running, cycling
and even during X-C skiing. What about the Polar S625X?
The Polar S625X was designed primarily for runners and
triathletes. So we have ensured that the running functions are
optimized for running and cycling. The S625X is fully compatible
with all Polar cycling sensors. Combining cycling speed and cadence
and power options provides many more dimensions to the cycling
cross-sports experience than that offered by GPS speed and distance
unit.
Q: Some GPS units provide directional features to help navigation.
Why has Polar opted to leave this out in the S625X?
The S625X was designed with the knowledge that 80% of
runners generally run the same 3-5 routes. The speed and distance
element of the S625X will support people who want to track speed
and distance on these routes and also lets them find more new
routes with no need for external mile markers. Navigation features
are best suited for outdoor and adventure products, while the
S625X is focused on providing runners the most relevant features
for building performance and enhancing their every running experience.
Q: Is the S1 footpod heavy?
You can't feel it when once its attached to your shoe.
In fact, you will struggle to figure out (by feel) which shoe
has the footpod on it once you put it on. The Polar S1 footpod
is built to last with robust water resistance, shock resistance
and easy battery change while still not reducing shoe comfort
or running performance.
Q: How accurate is the S625X?
Generally the S625X is at minimum 97% accurate even without
calibration. The accuracy increases to 99% with calibration. In
relative terms, this accuracy is as good or better than the accuracy
provided by GPS. Interestingly, this degree of accuracy is generally
far better than what is seen on running treadmills. Have you ever
heard of a runner complain that a treadmill was not accurate enough
for their training purposes?
Q: Do I need to re-calibrate my footpod every time my foot
pod or wrist unit battery is changed?
If you choose to calibrate your Polar S1 footpod, the
calibration factor will be stored in the permanent memory of the
S625X Running Computer. This calibration will be stored permanently,
unless you decide to change it....so if you calibrate, you only
need to do it once.
Q: Will the Polar S1 foot pod leak water?
Robust water-resistance and durability are key elements
in the design of the Polar S1 footpod. It will survive immersion,
wet running environments and continue to perform reliably. However,
the S1 was not designed for swimming or aqua-running so please
do not going swimming with it.
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