1. Introduction
The CYCPLUS USB ANT+ Stick Dongle Adapter is designed to receive ANT+ wireless radio signals and translate them into a USB protocol. This enables seamless integration of your traditional bike trainer with popular cycling software applications such as Zwift, TheSufferfest, TrainerRoad, and Rouvy. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance.
2. Product Overview
2.1. Package Contents
Upon opening your package, you should find the following items:
- 1x USB ANT+ Stick Dongle Adapter
- 1x 3-meter USB Extension Cable
Image: The USB ANT+ Stick Dongle Adapter and its accompanying 3-meter USB extension cable.
2.2. Key Features
- ANT+ Wireless Communication: Receives ANT+ wireless radio signals for compatibility with various fitness devices.
- USB Protocol Conversion: Translates ANT+ data into USB protocol for computer integration.
- Wide Software Compatibility: Fully compatible with popular cycling software including Zwift, TheSufferfest, TrainerRoad, and Rouvy.
- Sensor Data Collection: Capable of collecting data from ANT+ sensors such as Cadence, Speed, Heart Rate, and Power.
- Extended Range: Includes a 3-meter USB extension cable to provide flexibility in placement and ensure optimal signal reception, especially when your bike is far from your computer.
- Plug-and-Play: Designed for easy setup with automatic driver installation on compatible operating systems.
2.3. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | CYCPLUS |
| Model Number | U2 |
| Color | Black |
| Material | ABS |
| Dimensions (Dongle) | 18mm × 9mm × 5mm (0.70" × 0.35" × 0.24") |
| Weight | 1.7g (0.06oz) |
| Range | Up to 5 meters (Best performance within 3 meters) |
| Radio Protocol | 2.4Ghz ANT+ wireless communications protocol |
| Supported Channels | 8 |
| Compatible OS | Windows, macOS (PC/Laptop) |
| Hardware Interface | USB |
Image: Visual representation of the dongle's dimensions and the 3-meter extension cable.
3. Setup Guide
3.1. Connecting the ANT+ Stick
- Identify a USB Port: Locate an available USB port on your computer (PC or Laptop).
- Connect the Extension Cable (Recommended): For optimal performance and range, especially if your bike trainer is not directly next to your computer, connect the 3-meter USB extension cable to your computer's USB port first.
- Insert the ANT+ Stick: Plug the CYCPLUS USB ANT+ Stick Dongle Adapter into the female end of the extension cable. If not using the extension cable, plug the dongle directly into your computer's USB port.
Image: Components of the USB ANT+ Stick and extension cable, illustrating their connection and typical setup with a bike trainer.
3.2. Driver Installation
The CYCPLUS USB ANT+ Stick is designed to be plug-and-play on most Windows and macOS systems. Upon connecting the device, the necessary drivers should install automatically.
- Automatic Installation: Allow a few moments for your operating system to detect the new hardware and install the drivers. You may see a notification indicating successful installation.
- Manual Driver Download (If Needed): In rare cases, if the drivers do not install automatically or if you experience connectivity issues, you may need to manually download them. You can contact CYCPLUS customer service for assistance or visit the official ANT+ website for generic ANT USB2 drivers: http://www.thisisant.com/assets/resources/Software%20Tools/ant_usb2_drivers.zip
Important Note: The ANT+ Stick is compatible with Windows and macOS. It is not compatible with Android or iOS mobile devices.
4. Operation
Once the ANT+ Stick is connected and drivers are installed, you can begin using it with your preferred cycling software.
4.1. Using with Cycling Software
- Launch Software: Open your cycling application (e.g., Zwift, TheSufferfest, TrainerRoad, Rouvy) on your computer.
- Pair Devices: Navigate to the device pairing or sensor connection section within your software. The exact steps may vary by application, but generally involve searching for nearby ANT+ devices.
- Select Sensors: Your software should detect your ANT+ enabled bike trainer, heart rate monitor, speed sensor, cadence sensor, and power meter. Select the devices you wish to connect.
- Begin Activity: Once your devices are paired, you can start your virtual ride or training session. The ANT+ Stick will transmit data from your sensors to the software in real-time.
Image: The USB ANT+ Stick facilitating connection between a bike trainer and cycling software displayed on laptops.
Image: A complete indoor cycling setup, showing a bike on a trainer, a display screen running cycling software, and the USB ANT+ Stick.
4.2. Optimizing Signal Reception
For the best performance, especially with the 3-meter extension cable:
- Proximity: Position the ANT+ Stick as close as possible to your ANT+ sensors (bike trainer, heart rate monitor, etc.). The best performance is typically achieved within 3 meters.
- Line of Sight: Ensure there are no major obstructions (e.g., metal objects, large furniture) between the ANT+ Stick and your sensors.
- Interference: Keep the ANT+ Stick away from other electronic devices that might cause interference (e.g., Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, other wireless devices).
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues while using your CYCPLUS USB ANT+ Stick, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
5.1. Device Not Recognized / Drivers Not Installing
- Try Another USB Port: Plug the ANT+ Stick into a different USB port on your computer.
- Restart Computer: A simple restart can often resolve driver recognition issues.
- Manual Driver Installation: If automatic installation fails, download and install the drivers manually from the link provided in Section 3.2.
- Check Device Manager (Windows): Open Device Manager and look for the ANT USB device. If there's a yellow exclamation mark, it indicates a driver issue. Right-click and select "Update driver" or "Uninstall device" and then replug the stick.
5.2. Frequent Disconnections / Signal Drops
- Optimize Placement: Ensure the ANT+ Stick is within 3 meters of your sensors and has a clear line of sight. Use the extension cable to position the dongle closer to your bike.
- Reduce Interference: Move other wireless devices (Wi-Fi routers, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices) away from the ANT+ Stick and your sensors.
- Check Sensor Batteries: Ensure all your ANT+ sensors (heart rate monitor, speed/cadence sensors, power meter) have fresh batteries.
- Software Settings: Some cycling applications may have specific ANT+ settings or protocols (e.g., ANT FEC vs. direct trainer protocol). Experiment with these settings if available.
- USB Power: If using a USB hub, ensure it is a powered hub to provide sufficient power to the dongle.
5.3. Sensors Not Pairing
- Activate Sensors: Ensure your ANT+ sensors are awake and transmitting. For example, spin your bike's wheel or pedals, or wear your heart rate monitor.
- Check Compatibility: Verify that your sensors are indeed ANT+ compatible.
- Software Scan: Ensure your cycling software is actively scanning for new devices.
6. Maintenance
The CYCPLUS USB ANT+ Stick Dongle Adapter requires minimal maintenance to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Keep Clean: Wipe the dongle and cable with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid using liquid cleaners.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store the dongle and cable in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handle with Care: Avoid dropping the device or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not bend or twist the USB connector excessively.
- Protect from Moisture: Keep the device away from water and high humidity to prevent damage to internal components.
7. Warranty and Support
CYCPLUS products are manufactured to high-quality standards. For any warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the retailer's return policy or contact CYCPLUS customer service directly.
When contacting support, please provide your product model number (U2) and a detailed description of the issue you are experiencing.
