Commonly asked questions about the Timex Global Trainer

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The Timex Ironman Global Trainer is a powerful, GPS-enabled training tool that offers users advanced functionality and outstanding levels of performance.

Like every product designed by Timex Ironman, usability is key to the appeal of the Global Trainer and this revolutionary sports watch is extremely easy to use. We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions about the Timex Ironman Global Trainer for users and retailers.

If you have any additional questions please contact our Sales and Marketing team.

Timex Ironman Global Trainer FAQ

Q: Where can I buy the Timex Ironman Global Trainer GPS watch?

A: The Global Trainer is currently available at stores listed at www.findastockist.co.uk

Q: I don’t see a bike mount in the box, how can I get one?

A: There is a bike mount included in every box. In fact the watch comes wrapped around it, so make sure you hold onto that piece!

Q: Is the Timex Global Trainer compatible with Macs?

A: A device agent compatible with Mac OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard) or newer is from the Timex Ironman website for download.

Q: How do I turn on the Global Trainer watch?

A: Press and hold the back/pwr button until you see the display is turned on and you can see the Timex Ironman logo.

Q: I turned the watch on, but none of the buttons are working?

A: You only activated the time display in Power Off mode. Hold down the back/pwr button until the Timex Ironman logo appears.

Q: Can I start the chronograph for my workout before the watch has a GPS signal fix?

A: We recommend keeping the watch still while you’re waiting for the GPS signal as this will help speed things up. You can start the chronograph before getting a signal fix but no GPS-related speed, distance, pace, altitude or mapping data will be captured.

Q: How long does it usually take to fix onto the GPS signal?

A: The initial GPS fix can take several minutes, but in later use GPS signals will be captured in less than 90 seconds.

Q: Can I swim with my Global Trainer?

A: Yes, it is water resistant to 50 meters. However, GPS does not work below the surface of the water so the Global Trainer will only provide sports watch functionality.

Q: How does the countdown timer work?

A: There are five customisable countdown timers on the Global Trainer, each of which can be individually named and programmed to count down and stop, countdown and repeat or link to another timer for interval training. To use these timers you will need to add them to your Performance mode or Multisport mode screen. This can be done manually on the watch or on your computer through the device agent. Once the timer is included on your screen, press the start/split button to activate it.

Q: How many pieces of information can I display at one time?

A: Each screen may be customized to display 1-4 panes of information. There are a total of 5 screens.

Q: How long is the battery life?

A: 15 hours in full time GPS mode and up to 12 days in standby time of day.

Q: Should I turn off the GPS while indoors?

A: Ideally yes, it will help save battery life. If no GPS signal can be found due to being indoors you will be prompted to either turn the GPS off or continue to search for GPS. You can also manually turn off the GPS through the GPS menu in the Configure mode.  

Q: Does the Timex Global Trainer provide heart rate reading?

A: Yes, the Global Trainer is compatible with any heart rate monitor strap using ANT+ technology.

Q: What other ANT+ sensors are compatible with the Timex Global Trainer?

A: The Global Trainer is compatible with the Timex ANT+ speed/cadence sensor, as well as aftermarket speed, cadence and combination speed/cadence sensors featuring ANT+ technology. The Global Trainer is also compatible with aftermarket ANT+ compatible power meters including SRM, Quark and Saris/Cyclops.

Q. Do I have to use the GPS for my bike speed and distance measurements?

A: No, when on the bike you may use an ANT+ bike sensor instead of GPS. This will prolong the Global Trainer battery life, but you will not be able to record mapping information.

Q: Does the Timex Global Trainer compute caloric burn?

A: Yes.

Q: Does the Timex Global Trainer sync with any online software?

A: Yes, the Timex Global Trainer downloads through an online device agent to Timex Trainer which is powered by Training Peaks. This software can be downloaded from the Timex Ironman website.

Q: What’s the easiest way to set up the Timex Global Trainer?

A: All of the basic watch functions and the advanced programmability of the Timex Global Trainer can be completed through your computer. Simply download the software from the Timex Ironman website to get started.

Q: How do I replace the battery?

A: The Global Trainer uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that does not need replacement. Simply connect the included USB adapter to the appropriate charging location on the watch and you can monitor the recharging status until the watch is fully charged.

Q: Will I damage the battery by only partially charging it?

A: No.

Q: How many charges will the battery take?

A: The battery used in the Global Trainer is rated for over 500 full charges before any loss of capacity is noticeable.

Q: Does the Timex Global Trainer come in a smaller size?

A: No, it is available in one size only. However, the Global Trainer weighs just 84 grams and is designed to work comfortably with smaller wrists as well as standard wrist profiles.

Q: Does the Timex Global Trainer utilise a wireless download system to transfer information to computers?

A: No, the Timex Global Trainer utilises a USB charging cable to transfer information to and from your computer since it must be recharged periodically anyway.

Q: I am a beginner, is the set-up difficult?

A: No, the Global Trainer is preprogrammed and ready to use right out of the box once fully charged. There is a Quick Start Guide included which explains the basic functions along with an in-depth guide if you wish to become a more advanced user.

Q: Does Timex own its own satellites?

A: No, Timex uses the same satellite constellation as the rest of the world uses for GPS applications. These satellites are owned by the US government.