To switch on your Fitbit Charge 5, you primarily need to connect it to its charging cable or, if it has some residual power, firmly press the inductive button on its side.
Turning on your Fitbit Charge 5 typically involves one of two main actions, especially if it's completely off or has been recently reset:
Connecting to the Charging Cable: The Most Reliable Method
For your Fitbit Charge 5 to power on, especially if its battery is depleted or if it's a new device, connecting it to its dedicated charging cable is the most effective method. This action automatically initiates the power-on sequence.
Steps to Power On via Charging:
- Locate Your Charger: Find the magnetic charging cable that came with your Fitbit Charge 5.
- Connect the Cable: Attach the magnetic end of the charging cable to the charging port on the back of your Charge 5. Ensure the pins align correctly and the magnet holds it firmly in place.
- Plug In: Connect the USB end of the charging cable to a power source, such as:
- A USB port on a computer.
- A certified USB wall adapter (like one used for smartphones).
- A power bank.
- Observe the Screen: Once connected, your Fitbit Charge 5's screen should illuminate. You'll typically see a battery icon indicating it's charging, or the Fitbit logo, followed by the time display.
This method not only turns on your device but also ensures it has sufficient power for operation.
Using the Inductive Button: For Waking or Rebooting
The Fitbit Charge 5 does not have a traditional physical button that clicks. Instead, it features an inductive "button" area on its side. This area responds to a firm squeeze or press. While connecting to the charger is best for powering on from a completely off state, this inductive button can be used to wake the device from a sleep state or, in some cases, to initiate a reboot if it has some power.
How to Use the Inductive Button:
- Locate the Inductive Area: Gently feel the sides of your Charge 5; you'll notice a slightly recessed or designated area on one side that functions as the button.
- Firmly Press/Squeeze: Apply a firm, sustained squeeze or press to this inductive area for a few seconds. If the device has power, this action should wake the screen or initiate a response.
Initial Setup or Re-setup After Reset
After your Fitbit Charge 5 successfully turns on, especially if it's brand new or has undergone a factory reset, you might see the time display read 0:00. This indicates a successful power-on or reset, and the device will need to be set up or re-paired as a new device through the Fitbit app.
Setting Up Your Fitbit Charge 5:
- Download the Fitbit App: If you haven't already, download and install the Fitbit app on your smartphone or tablet from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Create/Log In to Account: Open the app and either create a new Fitbit account or log in with your existing credentials.
- Add Your Device: In the Fitbit app, tap your profile picture > Set Up a Device.
- Follow On-Screen Prompts: Select "Charge 5" from the list and follow the instructions on your phone and Charge 5 screen to complete the setup process, including pairing and syncing.
For detailed instructions on setting up your device, refer to the official Fitbit support resources on how to set up a new Fitbit device.
Troubleshooting Tips if Your Charge 5 Won't Turn On
If your Fitbit Charge 5 doesn't turn on immediately after connecting it to the charger or pressing the button:
- Check the Connection: Ensure the charging cable is securely attached to both your Charge 5 and the power source.
- Try a Different Power Source: Plug the charger into a different USB port or wall adapter.
- Clean Contacts: Gently clean the charging contacts on both your Charge 5 and the charging cable with a dry cloth or a cotton swab. Dust or debris can obstruct the connection.
- Allow Time to Charge: If the battery was completely drained, it might take a few minutes of charging before the screen illuminates or responds. Leave it on charge for at least 30 minutes.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully switch on your Fitbit Charge 5 and get it ready for use.
