Setup Guide hDrop Gen 2
The hDrop Gen 2 is the only reusable sweat-analysis wearable designed to help athletes monitor hydration in real time. If you’ve just received your device, this step-by-step guide will walk you through unboxing, charging, setup, strap installation, app configuration, and first use.
1. Unboxing Your hDrop Gen 2
Inside the box you’ll find:
- hDrop Gen 2 device with built-in electrodes (blue and black sensor area) and a USB-C charging port
- Instruction manual
- Protective case for safe storage and travel
- Two strap sizes (for different arm circumferences)
- USB-C charging cable
- Silicone USB-C protection cap to keep dust, water, and sweat out of the charging port (optional to use now).
- Plastic buckle to secure the strap
- Two alcohol prep pads for cleaning after use
2. Charging and Powering On
- Before anything else, connect the hDrop Gen 2 to the USB-C charger.
- Charging wakes the device for the first time.
- While charging:
- A steady green LED = charging in progress
- LED off = fully charged
- During workouts:
- A blinking green LED = device recording activity
- A blinking red LED = battery below 15%
Tip: Always charge before your first use.
3. Downloading the hDrop App
- Scan the QR code on the box or search for “hDrop” in the iOS App Store or Google Play.
- Install the app, create your account, and answer the initial setup questions.
- Verify your email to unlock all features.
4. Performing the Initial Thumb Test
- The app will prompt you to do a Thumb Test to calibrate the device.
- Place your thumb so it completely covers the blue + black electrode surface.
- Hold still for ~30 seconds.
- Data is automatically uploaded to your account once the test is complete.
5. Setting Up the Strap
Take the strap and the included plastic buckle.
- Loop one side through the first hole and secure the Velcro.
- Repeat with the second hole to secure the strap.
- Adjust the strap length as needed.
- Mount the hDrop Gen 2 so the sensor faces inward, ensuring direct contact with your skin when worn on the upper arm.
6. Cleaning & Maintenance
- After each use, gently wipe the electrodes with the included alcohol prep pads.
- Avoid scratching the sensor surface.
- Store the device in the protective case when not in use, especially during travel or races.
7. Using the hDrop App
Main Features:
- Start Activities: From the home screen, select your activity (e.g., light, moderate, or intense). The app will begin tracking once sweat reaches the sensor.
- Device Management: Under My Device, you can:
- Check for firmware updates
- Link a new hDrop device
- Verify connection status
- Activity History: Tap the graph icon to view recent workouts, export your data, or delete sessions.
- Profile Settings: Update weight, height, gender, and other personal data for more accurate results.
- Support & Quick Guide: Access troubleshooting, guides, or live chat with the support team.
8. Reading Your Data
During an activity, the app displays:
- hDrop Score – your hydration index for the session
- (Coming soon) Sweat losses and total sodium losses in real time
At the end of your workout:
- Tap Finish → Upload your session → Review results in the activity log.
9. Storing & Traveling
- Use the protective travel case when taking your hDrop Gen 2 to races or training camps.
Final Thoughts
The hDrop Gen 2 is designed to give athletes actionable hydration insights without disposables. By following these steps, charge, strap, thumb test, app setup, you’ll be ready to track sweat rate, electrolyte loss, and hydration needs in real time.
Whether you’re training indoors, racing outdoors, or preparing for a triathlon, this setup ensures your hDrop is accurate, clean, and always ready to perform.