Technical Support
CompuTrainer and Velotron
Frequently Asked Questions
 


Many FAQ topics are similar between CompuTrainer and Velotron.  Though every attempt will be made to keep the information here current, it is difficult in this Q&A to add every issue that arises.  If there is a specific subject not addressed here, be sure to check out our User Forum to ask specific questions.

Click here to view or download CompuTrainer Operating Manuals in PDF format.
Note:  Some issues listed below have been resolved with the latest releases of CompuTrainer Software!


Links Found on this page

General Computer Related Q&A

General CompuTrainer Q&A – All models

CompuTrainer 3D v3.0 Q&A

Coaching Software

PC1 Software

Topo Course Creator

Topo USA RacerMate Edition


Links to other pages

CompuTrainer Hardware Troubleshooting Q&A

CompuTrainer 3D Version Build 116 and earlier Q&A


GENERAL COMPUTER RELATED Q&A

* My Computer doesn't have a standard serial port, can I still connect my CompuTrainer to my computer?

* How can I find out whether my computer meets minimum system requirements?

* How do I down load files from the Internet?

* How do I unzip files that are in zipped format?

* What is DirectX or Open GL?

* Where can I find instructions on downloading and installing DirectX?

* Screen saver and power management issues

* How can I check for what is running behind the scenes on my Computer?

* Should I shut everything down behind the scenes before using my trainer?

Q: My Computer doesn't have a standard serial port, can I still connect my CompuTrainer to my computer?
A: CompuTrainer Software released after Jan 15 2002 is compatible with USB-to-Serial adapters, although for some unknown reason all USB-to-Serial adapters are not created equal and some do not work well (i.e., Belkin™ model F5U409).  CompuTrainer is now supplied with a USB-to-Serial adapter, so if your PC does not have a standard serial port and a USB-to-Serial adapter is needed, we recommend using one that is offered from RacerMate.  If you have an older CompuTrainer and need this adapter for a newer computer, you can order one here.

Q: How can I find out whether my computer meets minimum system requirements?
A: Run the DirectX Diagnostics program.  To do so, go to Windows™ Start menu, then click on Run and type DXDIAG and click OK.  After the program has finished loading, click on the Save all information button to save a copy of your PC’s information onto you computer (we may ask for this file at some point). Open this DXDIAG.TXT file and scroll through the document for the information you might need.  Things to look for specifically are in the System Information section and the Display Devices section.  You want to pay closest attention to Display Memory and Driver Date/Time.

Q: How do I download files from the Internet?
A: When you click on a link to a downloadable file, in most cases you will be prompted to "Open file from it's current location" or "Save this file to disk"...

   

Choose "Save this file to disk" or "save as". The "Save As" window will appear and you can choose where you want to save the file on your hard drive (in the Save in: section) or other storage device.

   

You will probably want to save different files into different folders, depending on what the files are. If you aren't sure where to save a file, it might be a good idea to create a folder called C:\temp and save them there until you decide where they need to go.

Regarding CompuTrainer downloads it's advisable to download CompuTrainer 3D V3 related file(s) to the C:\Program Files\CompuTrainer 3D V3 folder.  New 3D course(s) should go to C:\Program Files\CompuTrainer 3D V3\Courses subfolder. PC1 files to Challenge PC1 folder, and Coaching Software files to the CompCS\Courses folder etc.

*Please note: If you see a window like the one shown below, not to worry, you accidentally clicked the "Open this file from its current location" option and Windows™ has simply opened up the course into Notepad. Close this window and click on "Save this file to disk" and you will get the window shown above.

Q: How do I unzip files that are in zipped format?
A: If you do not use Windows XP™ or higher, you will need a zip/unzip utility to unzip or view files that come in a zip format. If you can't open a zip file, go to
www.winzip.com to get a free evaluation version of WinZip™. 

During the WinZip™ install process you will be asked whether you want to use the "Wizard" or "Classic" style. Choose "WinZip Classic" and follow the rest of the default prompts. Once you have WinZip™ installed and a desired zip file (*.zip) downloaded to your computer, double-click on the zip file. When the WinZip™ window opens you should see the file(s) that have been zipped up (compressed) into that file. Click once on the file(s) you want, highlighting it/them, and then click the "extract button" (if you plan to unzip every file, you do not need to select any files to highlight them.  WinZip will know you want all files extracted). When prompted where to "extract to"... type in or click on the desired directory and then click the Extract button. That's all there is to it.

Q: What is Microsoft DirectX™ or Open GL?
A:
DirectX™ is a foundation on which many games are run. DirectX™ provides a key set of tools to enhance games and multimedia applications  Like DirectX, Open GL does similar things.  Most video cards include DirectX drivers, but older video cards may not include Open GL drivers.  Always check on the video card makers web site to get the latest drivers.

Q: Where can I find instructions on downloading and installing DirectX™?
A: Take a look at How to Download and Install DirectX (Article 179113) in the Knowledge Base on the Microsoft Product Support Services site, which provides detailed instructions. (Note: You may have to register to view the article; you can do so at no charge.)

Q: Screen Savers and Power Management
A: Screen Savers and Power Management schemes look for keyboard and mouse activity to determine when to put the computer to sleep.  RacerMate software products don't use a keyboard or mouse while racing, so at pre-set times (whatever is set in the Power Management screen) Windows™ will activate the power saving features.  This may cause a system crash during your rides and may require re-booting your computer.  It may also cause you to suddenly loose all resistance on your CompuTrainer.  To edit the Power Management settings, right-click the Windows Desktop and left-click Properties.  Click on the Screen Saver tab within the Display Properties window and then click on the Power button found under "Monitor Power."  It is highly recommended to set power saving features to "Never", or to a duration longer than your longest race session.   Screen Savers, which differ from Power Management function are disabled using DirectX, so there is no need to edit your screen saver timing.

Q: How can I check for what is running behind the scenes on my Computer?  
A: A common cause of interruptions or crashes are programs running behind the scenes trying to take over Windows™ while you are riding.  To see what you may have running behind the scenes, run the Microsoft Configuration Editor.  To do so, go to the Windows™ Start menu, then click Run and type MSCONFIG and click OK.  In the StartUp tab you will find a list, with checkboxes, of all the programs running behind the scenes.  Windows XP™ offers a "minimal boot" function here also that will automatically run the computer with minimal applications running.  If your problem goes away in a minimal boot system, then the problem is caused by a program running in the Startup group and you can systematically un-check these boxes in the Startup tab to troubleshoot a program crash.

Q: Should I shut everything down behind the scenes before using my trainer?
A: It's never a bad idea to shut down unnecessary programs before running CompuTrainer software.  Unlike most software you'll use on your PC, CompuTrainer software is tracking real-time performance data, and any attempt to "distract" Windows™ should be avoided. Try first to leave the computer as it is and only attempt changes to the Startup entries if you encounter problems.

 


GENERAL COMPUTRAINER Q&A – All models

* How should I adjust the Cadence Sensor (RPM) if it's not sending a signal to the Handlebar unit?

* I upgraded from a Nintendo based system to the PC1/3D. I had to replace a chip in my Handlebar Controller and now, when I try to use the Nintendo, it doesn’t work. Is this right?

* When I use my CompuTrainer in the stand-alone mode the watts and the grades for hills seems totally different then when I use the External Software?

* How do I find what version of CompuTrainer Software I am running?

* How do I calculate grade/distance etc.?

* Can I print or use the race data you supply with my spreadsheet program?

* I have updated to the 25.41 version of the Handlebar Controller, but now it doesn’t show the word PRO when connected to the PC. Did I get a bad chip?

* I’ve just setup the software. Why won’t riders respond when I pedal?

* Why, after I’ve selected the right communications ports in Rider One Setup, the software still doesn’t respond?

* I have tried the above and my CompuTrainer still doesn't talk to my PC.  Why?

* How do I check Frame Rate speed while using CompuTrainer Software?

Q: How should I adjust the Cadence Sensor (RPM) if it's not sending a signal to the Handlebar unit?
A: It may be necessary to move the Magnet or Cadence Sensor fore or aft until an RPM signal is received on the handlebar Control Module.  (If the magnet passes the exact center of the Cadence Sensor, it may not produce a signal).  Also, make sure the magnet is not too far away from the sensor.  3/16-1/4" is the maximum distance you should allow.

Q: I upgraded from a Nintendo based system to a PC based system (PC1 or 3D). To do so I had to replace a chip in my Handlebar controller and now, when I try to use the Nintendo system it doesn’t work. Is this right?
A: Yes, the Handlebar Controller program for the PC is different than the one for the Nintendo.  You'll have to swap the chip out with the original (v15.19) to use the old system again.  These chips are somewhat fragile, so it is not advisable to do this swap too many time or a new program chip will likely be needed in short order.

Q: When I use my CompuTrainer in the Stand Alone Mode, the load felt for the grades shown seem totally different than when I use an external software package.  Why?
A: The "percent grade" you see in Stand Alone Mode is not the same as in the external software programs. This is due mostly to the lack of being able to input weight into the Handlebar Controller, which is necessary to calculate the correct grade.  The best way to describe the load levels in Stand Alone Mode is just that - load levels, not grade, even though it says grade.

Q: How do I find what version of CompuTrainer Software I am running?
A: In PC1 or Coaching Software you will find the version numbers under Help/About. In the 3D software (up to build 116) you will find the build number by right clicking on the Info button in the Course Creation Interface.  3D Version 3.0, click on the About button in the Course Creation Interface -- and you'll see it briefly after the Intro.avi file on launch.  MultiRider had a version check added on MultiRider version 3 and you can access that by right-clicking the race screen and the click on About.

Q: How do I calculate grade/distance etc.?
A: Click here to view the calculation.

Q: Can I print or use the race data you supply with my spreadsheet program?
A: Yes and No... The latest PC1 and Coaching Software updates have "print screen" capabilities.  Because all CompuTrainer data is binary and may contain 10's of thousands of lines of data, it is not easy to produce a printable report.  You can only gain access to formatted race data when you use the Export feature in Coaching Software.  Using a program like WattsUp™ or Training Peaks™, you can view these exported saved race files and print charts and graphs of the data, or use a program like Excel™ to do so.  In addition, CompuTrainer 3D version 3.0 now has a Racelog.csv file that contains race summary results.  This file can be accessed in the CompuTrainer 3D V3 program group and is located in the root installation folder C:\Program Files\CompuTrainer 3D V3.  

Q: I have updated to version 25.43 of the Handlebar Controller, but now it doesn’t show the word PRO when plug the cable into the EXT. PC port.  Did I get a bad chip?
A: No, the chip is fine.  Beginning with Version 25.41 the Handlebar Controller maintains stand-alone functions UNTIL a race screen is being displayed on all CompuTrainer Software. This allows the stereo cable to remain inserted while doing Rolling Resistance Calibration (RRC) or any other Stand-Alone functions.  The one exception is while using the 3D software, which communicates to the Handlebar Controller while in the Course Creation Interface to allow building Random Courses using the Handlebar Controller. A new feature beginning with version 25.41 alternates the display of Heart Rate and Cadence while running an external software program.

Q: I’ve just setup my race software. Why won’t the rider respond when I pedal?
A: Run the Test Comm Ports program found in Options menu of either PC1 or Coaching Software or the Options Screen in 3D.  All current software will set the Com Port based upon this test with no further input from you, but older versions of software did not do this and the Com Port needs to be set manually on these.  If the Com Port is set correctly and the rider still do not respond, see the next question.  

Q: Why, after I’ve selected the right communications ports in Setup, the software still doesn’t respond?
A: If all else fails, try downloading the latest PC1, Coaching Software, or 3D software update. You may also try deleting the "ini" file for whichever program is experiencing the problem. These files are as follows: Challenge PC1 = racer.ini; Coaching Software = chart.ini; 3D software = Prefs.ini; and MultiRider = multi.ini. When these files are deleted, the program will create a new file, but you’ll need to set up your rider data again.

Q: I have tried the above and my CompuTrainer still doesn't talk to my PC.  Why?
A:  The first question to ask is: Has it ever worked before or is this a new installation?  The second would be whether it is only happening on one software program or all three programs supplied with your CompuTrainer?  

If this is a brand new system and a CompuTrainer is found using the Test Comm Ports program, and you're sure you set the comm port(s) up as described in the questions above -- you should now run the DirectX Diagnostics to determine whether your PC meets our Minimum System Requirements for that program.  

If the CompuTrainer isn't found during the test, make sure you do not have any other device like a Palm™ or similar PDA connected to your computer.  These use a "QuickSync™" feature to allow quick activation of the PDA, but these programs never let go of the port -- rendering them unavailable for other devices. 

If you are using the supplied USB-to-Serial adapter, you should check in the Port section of Device Manager (right-click My Computer, left-click Properties, and click on Hardware, then Device Manager) and see if the USB-to-Serial adapter is found there.  If it is, make note of the com# next to it and use this number as the setting in the software.  If it is not found in this section, check for any errors in Device Manager, which might indicate a problem with the adapter or with the installation.  Many times the adapter is installed into the USB port, but the driver is never installed.  This would typically display a device under "Other Devices" with an exclamation mark beside it.  Right Click on this and click on "Update Driver" and follow the instructions to install the driver from the disc supplied with the USB-to-Serial adapter.  

If CompuTrainer has worked and now doesn't, try to determine whether the serial port works using another serial device (like a serial mouse) and if so check the cables for cuts or frays.  If none are found, it may require sending some component in for repair.  Contact tech support.

Q: How do I check Frame Rate Speed using CompuTrainer Software?
A: Frame rates can be checked in either PC1 or Coaching Software while on either a Race or Charts Screen by pressing the "D" on you PC keyboard.  In the 3D software, press the "Z" key.  In the upper left-hand corner of the screen a set of numbers will appear.  PC1 values should be around 20 and Coaching Software or 3D numbers closer to 30.  Press the "F" key to put the PC into "Free-run" mode, which should display a higher number.  This determines "headroom", or how much greater capacity the PC has to to do other things -- like communicate to the serial port.  It has been seen where a computer is just marginal and may drop communications as Windows™ attempts to maintain the graphics display.


COMPUTRAINER 3D Version 3.0 Q&A

* When I’m riding, an occasional road disappearance occurs or some graphics look funny or are missing.  Why?

* I noticed that the Introduction AVI (movie) is running too slow.  How can I fix this or disable it?

* I’m having troubles just getting this software to run or it’s running slowly.  What should I look for?

* I can’t see all the buttons on the Setup Options (Build or Load a Course Screen).  How do I fix this?

Q: When I’m riding, an occasional road disappearance occurs or some graphics look funny or are missing.  Why?
A
: There can be many reasons for this, but in general it is caused by the video card and or video driver.  You should check for updates for your video card and also verify whether it meets minimum system requirements.  We are trying to make sure this never happens from our end.

Q: I noticed that the Introduction AVI (movie) is running too slow.  How can I fix this or disable it?
A: Check for updated video drivers.  If none are available you should disable this video.  If you want to bypass or disable this AVI, you can do this one of two ways: Either hit the PC Keyboard's Spacebar as the Intro is running (true under all operating systems) or go to the C:\CompuTrainer 3D V3\Data folder and rename Intro.AVI as Intro.OLD to force the program to ignore the AVI routine all together.

Q: I’m having troubles just getting this software to run or it’s running slowly.  What should I look for?
A: This version of CompuTrainer 3D requires a currently supported video card to run correctly.  Though on the surface your video card may meet our minimum system requirements, the real concern in fact is how old the video card is and is it still being supported by the manufacturer with current video drivers.  You should always check for updated drivers for the video card, and if these drivers are not specifically written for DirectX 7 (or newer), a video card upgrade may be required before you have satisfactory results with this software.  Also try adjusting your color settings in the Display Properties to a new setting (16 bit color or higher is required), or look at other Display Property settings.

Q: I can’t see all the buttons on the Setup Options (Build or Load a Course Screen).  How do I fix this?
A: Depending on the size of your monitor, you may need to adjust your screen resolution to 800x600 or 1024x768.  This software may not show all the buttons in 640x480 mode.

Known Issues

  • If you have trouble getting this Software to open the "load or build a course" option, set your Windows display properties to "(High Color) 16-bit".  Note Windows XP lists it as "(Medium) 16-bit".

  • If you experience graphic anomalies such as flickering, or shaking for example, try running the program in a "Window" rather than "full-screen mode".  Use F12 on your computer keyboard to toggle between the 2 modes.

  • If you create a course and then save it "before" you add the finish line, then the course will not run on subsequent uses. To fix this, delete the last section of the courses that won't run, add a finish line and then re-save.

  • Some USB-to-Serial adapters made by Belkin (i.e., Model F5U409) and others may not communicate properly with CompuTrainer Software.  If your PC does not have a standard serial port and a USB-to-Serial adapter is needed, we recommend using one that is supplied or offered from RacerMate.  Order it here.

  • 3D v3.0 has experienced problems with the Intel 82845G video card chipset.  A new graphics driver released on March 7, 2003 has repaired most issues.  Download the latest Intel 82845G video driver at: http://downloadfinder.intel.com/scripts-df/Support_Intel.asp


COACHING SOFTWARE Q&A

* When I start the Coaching software, it runs, what looks to be the equivalent of an hourglass, but as a straight horizontal bar – and then the program exits. What is causing this?

* The Coaching software and it doesn't recognize 3D software saved races.

* When I use the Coaching Software the pulse display seems correct on the computer screen, but random on the handlebar unit?

* How do I modify my "chart.ini" file?

Q: When I start the Coaching software, it runs, what looks to be the equivalent of an hourglass, but as a straight horizontal bar – and then the program exits. What is causing this?
A1: As of v1.1.39 the "P" for print screen feature was added.  A printer driver must be installed and present in Windows even if a printer isn't physically connected to the computer.
A2. The software is looking for a second video card to run in, because this is the way the software was originally defaulted to. You likely have only one video card in your machine and so a file called chart.ini needs to be modified to tell the software to stop looking for a second card. See page 15 of the CS Manual for the line:
Use Second Card = TRUE/FALSE and set it to FALSE. For more information, see "How do I modify my chart.ini file" below in this Q&A page.

Q: The Coaching software and it doesn't recognize saved races.
A: Check to make sure you are running the most current version of Coaching Software.  We have stopped supporting older 3D file formats (build 116 and earlier) in more current versions of Coaching Software.  Click here to update older versions.

Q: When I use the Coaching Software the pulse display seems correct on the computer screen, but random on the handlebar unit?
A: The 25.41 handlebar chip, when connected to the software alternates between RPM and Heart Rate. So, if it's reading OK on the PC screen, it has to be showing (alternately with RPM) the correct HR on the Handlebar. It can't work any differently than this. Chances are you are seeing the alternating display of Heart Rate and Cadence (RPM).

Q: How do I modify my "chart.ini" file?
A: Using "Windows Explorer" or "My Computer", locate and open the CompCS folder. (The chart.ini file icon should resemble an open spiral note pad by default). Double click on the file and it should display the contents in a separate window. Make the necessary changes explained on page 31 of the current Operators Manual, then save and exit. That's all there is to it.


PC1 SOFTWARE Q&A

* I get an "illegal operation" error message after I've created my rider data in the Challenge PC1 software.

* Why can't I save my SpinScan Sessions in PC1?

 

Q: I get an "illegal operation" error message after I've created my rider data in the Challenge PC1 software.
A: When creating or modifying any rider data files and/or courses, be sure to save them to the Challenge PC1 folder and NOT the "My Documents" folder. This problem had been corrected in the latest update build of PC1.

Q: Why can't I save my SpinScan Sessions in PC1?
A: There was a bug with saving SpinScan sessions in PC1 build 2952. This problem has been corrected with the latest build of PC1 Update.


TOPO COURSE CREATOR SOFTWARE Q&A

* When I try to create a course from a Topo USA route, I can't find the course file in my list of courses in the race software.

* What is Export Smoothing and what should I set this to?

* The courses I make using Topo have too steep of grades and valleys.

* Can I use the Course Editor to copy and paste courses together?

Q: When I try to create a course from a Topo USA route, I can't find the course file in my list of courses in the race software.
A: You probably need to edit the Course Export paths in the Preference screen of Topo Course Creator.  By default the Course Creator software was set to the same installation path used by either PC1 or 3D software, but you may have installed into a different location.  Check for the location of your course folders and type these in as the path to export courses.

Q: What is Elevation Smoothing and what should I set this to?
A: This may vary depending on the local.  Mountainous courses will likely need more smoothing than rural area courses.  A good place to start has been about 40 and increase/decrease from there.  Because this setting affects the file exported from the DeLorme software, you should establish this value first before adding bridges.

Q: The courses I make using Topo have too steep of grades and valleys.
A: There are two reasons for this.  First would be the lack of true road elevation with the DeLorme software.  Second would be the lack of bridges over rivers and streams in the DeLorme software.  Elevation smoothing will take care of much in regard to your typical roadway, but bridges must be added manually at the time you build the route in the DeLorme software.

Q: Can I use the Course Editor to copy and paste courses together?
A: Currently no.  The course editor in the first release only edits existing data.  It does not allow for cutting sections or pasting sections from and to the course data.  This is planned due to increased request.


TOPO USA RACERMATE EDITION SOFTWARE Q&A

* I can't figure out how to use this software effectively.  Is there an easier way to learn this?

* When I get finished with a route and go to export it, the file gets lost and I can't find it.  Where did it go?

* How do you add bridges?  Why aren't they already there?

* Can I export a section of a longer route to make a shorter course?

When I create the course for 3D, the course is listed, but when I load it -- it doesn't give the correct information.  Why?

* When I create a course and ride it, the road looks very bad and I don't have any scenery.

* How do I create a course that is out and back to the same point?

Q: I can't figure out how to use this software effectively.  Is there an easier way to learn this?
A: RacerMate released a simple "how to" manual for using the DeLorme software.  You can download it here on PDF.  This file can also be found on the latest Topo Course Creator CD-ROM.

Q: When I get finished with a route and go to export it, the file gets lost and I can't find it.  Where did it go?
A: The Export location for the DeLorme software is set in the RacerMate Topo Course Creator Preferences screen.  You should edit (insert) the correct path here so the DeLorme software knows where you'd like to send these route CSV files.  By default the path should be: C:\Program Files\TopoCC\CSV Files\

Q: How do you add bridges?  Why aren't they already there?
A: Bridges are not a part of the topographical data -- and neither are tunnels.  This data will have to be added to the route file manually.  It is our recommendation to first export the route without bridges and tunnels and create the course in 3D (if you have it).  Then, running the course in Demo Mode, make note the mileages where it appears "bridging" needs to occur; i.e., 1.10 miles to 1.32 miles; 2.13 to 2.16; etc.  Then, open the route again in DeLorme Topo USA and slowly add the bridges to the entire route.  When finished - export the route again and create the final 3D course (overwrite the original?).  Bridges are added to the route in the Profile tab of the DeLorme software using right mouse clicks on the actual profile for beginning and ending bridge points.  Be aware that bridge information IS NOT saved, so you will have to add them all again if you miss just one.

Q: Can I export a section of a longer route to make a shorter course?
A: You can with the latest version of Topo USA RacerMate Edition.  This can be found here.  The instructions for using this new feature can be found here.

Q: When I create the course for 3D, the course is listed, but when I load it -- it doesn't give the correct information.  Why?
A: Courses created using Topo USA RacerMate Edition are compatible only with CompuTrainer 3D version 3.0 (build M924-1258 or higher) and the most current Challenge PC1 (1.7.88).  These updates can be found on the Topo Course Creator CD and on-line.

Q:  When I create a course and ride it, the road looks very bad and I don't have any scenery.
A: Out and Back courses (courses that traverse the same roadway twice) will do this due to a "lack" within the 3D software to handle these events.  RacerMate is committed to solving this issue and has already developed a routine that should solve this.  This routine will be added to an upcoming version of the Topo Course Creator software.  Non out and back courses that have an occasional area of oddity can be due to bad Via placement.  Vias should NOT be placed at the center of an intersection, but rather just past the intersection in the direction of travel.

Q: How do I create a course that is out and back to the same point?
A: As was mentioned in the previous question, doing this may produce unfavorable result visually.  There will be no problem riding these courses and the training benefit will still be the same.  To create out and back courses, you must use the "Add Via/or Stop" function.  Place your Start Marker, then place your Finish Marker (likely on top of each other if the route returns to the same point).  Then starting from the Start "Add" Vias or Stops along the route sequentially in the direction the bike should travel.  At the turn-around you will then start returning towards the Finish, Adding enough Vias to direct the correctly direct the course.  If the distance isn't exactly correct when you generate the course, you can delete/edit the last section of course in the 3D and/or stretch it to the correct length.


Last Updated: November, 2007 Hit Counter