Connect Galaxy Watch 6 Classic to Garmin Edge 540: The ANT+ Solution

Updated at: 16/02/2025

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, with its elegant design and robust fitness tracking capabilities, offers a compelling smartwatch experience. However, for cyclists who rely on the detailed data and advanced features of a dedicated cycling computer like the Garmin Edge 540, seamlessly integrating both devices can seem like a challenge. Many users desire a direct connection for streamlined data transfer, avoiding the complexities of third-party apps and potential data inconsistencies. This is where the ANT+ protocol steps in as a powerful solution, allowing for a direct and reliable connection between these seemingly disparate devices.

This article will explore the practical application of ANT+ technology to bridge the gap between the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and the Garmin Edge 540, enabling cyclists to leverage the strengths of both devices simultaneously. We will guide you through a step-by-step process to establish this connection and unlock a more comprehensive and efficient cycling experience. Get ready to unlock a world of integrated cycling data!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
  • Garmin Edge 540
  • Android phone with ANT+ support (or ANT+ USB stick)
  • HR2VP Watch by Computer app
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure your Galaxy Watch 6 Classic has the ANT+ plugin enabled. This is crucial for communication with the Garmin Edge 540.
  • Check both devices' battery levels before attempting to pair. Low battery can interrupt the connection process and cause pairing issues.
  • Follow the Garmin Edge 540's pairing instructions carefully. Incorrect steps can lead to failed pairing or inaccurate data transmission.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Install Necessary Apps

    • Download the HR2VP Watch by Computer app on your Galaxy Watch from the Play Store.
    • Install the HR2VP companion app on your phone.
    • ANT+ Plugin Service, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service.
    Install ANT+ dependencies: ANT+ Plugin Service, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service.Install ANT+ dependencies: ANT+ Plugin Service, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service.
    Install Necessary Apps

  2. Configure ANT+ Connection

    • Connect an ANT+ USB stick to your phone (if your phone doesn't natively support ANT+).
    • Verify ANT+ connection using the ANT+ Tester app.
    • Enable unrestricted battery access for HR2VP Watch, HR2VP companion app, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service in your phone's settings.
    Enable unrestricted battery access for HR2VP Watch, HR2VP companion app, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service in your phone's settings.Enable unrestricted battery access for HR2VP Watch, HR2VP companion app, ANT+ Radio Service, and ANT+ USB Service in your phone's settings.
    Configure ANT+ Connection

  3. Enable Watch and App Settings

    • Enable ANT+ broadcasting and disable BLE broadcasting in the HR2VP Watch app.
    • Ensure continuous heart rate monitoring is enabled on your Galaxy Watch in Samsung Health.
    Ensure continuous heart rate monitoring is enabled on your Galaxy Watch in Samsung Health.Ensure continuous heart rate monitoring is enabled on your Galaxy Watch in Samsung Health.
    Enable Watch and App Settings

  4. Connect to Garmin Edge 540

    • Start a workout on your Galaxy Watch. The HR2VP app will automatically connect to your Garmin Edge 540 via ANT+ using your phone as a bridge.
    • Add a new heart rate sensor on your Garmin Edge 540. The ANT+ ID will be displayed in the HR2VP companion app.
    Add a new heart rate sensor on your Garmin Edge 540. The ANT+ ID will be displayed in the HR2VP companion app.Add a new heart rate sensor on your Garmin Edge 540. The ANT+ ID will be displayed in the HR2VP companion app.
    Connect to Garmin Edge 540

Read more: Master Your Garmin Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Data Screens, Navigation, and More

Tips

  • Use a flexible ANT+ USB stick cable to avoid disconnections when your phone is in your pocket.
  • Check your phone's compatibility with ANT+ using the ANT+ Tester app before purchasing an ANT+ USB stick. Not all phones are compatible.
  • Only certain ANT+ USB sticks are compatible. Garmin, Polar, and Wahoo are reliable brands; others may not work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Forgetting to Enable ANT+ on Both Devices

Reason: The ANT+ protocol needs to be explicitly activated on both the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and the Garmin Edge 540 for communication to occur. If either device has ANT+ disabled, they won't find each other.
Solution: Ensure ANT+ is turned on in the settings menus of both the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and the Garmin Edge 540.

2. Incorrect Pairing Procedure

Reason: The pairing process might not be followed correctly, leading to unsuccessful connection. This often involves overlooking steps in either the watch or the cycling computer's menu.
Solution: Carefully follow the pairing instructions for ANT+ devices provided by both Samsung and Garmin, ensuring you select the correct sensor type (likely ‘Other’ on the Edge 540).

FAQs

My Galaxy Watch 6 Classic doesn't show up on my Garmin Edge 540's sensor list. What should I do?
Ensure both devices are in pairing mode and have Bluetooth and ANT+ enabled. Try restarting both the watch and the Edge 540. Make sure your Galaxy Watch 6 Classic's ANT+ sensor is activated in its settings. If the problem persists, check for any software updates for both devices.
Will I see all the data from my Galaxy Watch 6 Classic on my Garmin Edge 540? For example, will heart rate data sync properly?
The Garmin Edge 540 primarily utilizes ANT+ for sensor data. While you can connect the Watch 6 Classic via ANT+, the data transmitted might be limited compared to dedicated ANT+ heart rate sensors. You'll likely get heart rate data, but other metrics might not be supported. Expect some potential limitations in data accuracy and completeness compared to a native Garmin sensor.