iMOW® FAQ

FAQ – frequently asked questions

Where can I purchase an iMOW® robotic mower?

You can purchase the iMOW® robotic mower from selected STIHL dealers. You can find your nearest STIHL dealer at: http://www.stihl.com

How can I adjust the cutting height?

You can adjust the cutting height using the rotary knob on top of the iMOW® robotic mower. Select the desired cutting height with reference to the marking on the rotary knob.

  • The minimum cutting height (setting 1) is 20 mm
  • The maximum cutting height (setting 8) is 60 mm

What happens to the clippings?

The iMOW® robotic mower is a mulching mower. During mulching, the grass clippings are further shredded in the mowing deck housing after cutting. They then fall back into the turf, where they remain and decompose. The finely shredded clippings return organic nutrients to the lawn, serving as a natural fertiliser. Fertiliser requirements are thereby reduced significantly.

How does the iMOW® robotic mower detect solid obstacles in the mowing area?

The iMOW® robotic mower is equipped with a movable hood fitted with an impact sensor. If the iMOW® bumps into a solid obstacle (minimum height: 8 cm) in automatic mode, it stops, turns to face another direction and continues mowing. 

What are no-go areas?

No-go areas are areas where the iMOW® robotic mower should not venture. No-go areas can include

  • Ponds
  • Swimming pools
  • Flowerbeds
  • Vegetable patches

These areas must be cordoned off by routing the perimeter wire accordingly.

What happens when the battery on the iMOW® robotic mower is completely discharged?

The iMOW® robotic mower enters the docking station automatically at the end of the mowing operation or when the battery is low on energy. The number and duration of the mowing and charging operations within the active times are adapted fully automatically. 

What are guide loops for the offset drive home?

Guide loops help the iMOW® identify corridors, confined areas and access points to the external docking station.
If an external docking station and/or corridor has been installed in the mowing area, guide loops for the offset drive home must be provided.
When the iMOW® robotic mower follows the perimeter wire offset at a distance, it crosses one of these guide loops during the drive home. It then travels to the perimeter wire and on to the docking station. 

What does the command "Start time-delayed mowing" mean?

If the command "Start time-delayed mowing" is activated, the iMOW® robotic mower starts the mowing operation automatically after a time delay. The start and end times of the mowing operation must be defined.
The mowing operation starts at the selected start time and continues until the selected end time.

Is weather protection equipment available for the iMOW® robotic mower?

A canopy top available as an accessory can be mounted on the docking station. This provides better protection for the iMOW® robotic mower against the weather.

Where can I take my iMOW® robotic mower for servicing?

Take your iMOW® robotic mower to a STIHL/VIKING dealer for servicing. When the annual service is due, a service message will appear on the display of the iMOW®.

Will the iMOW® robotic mower also mow when it is raining?

The iMOW® robotic mower can mow when it is raining. The rain sensor can be set so that the iMOW® robotic mower continues to operate normally when it is raining or mowing is interrupted or does not start when it is raining. 

How does the rain sensor function?

The rain sensor can be set so that mowing is interrupted or does not start when it is raining. The current value is displayed in a line diagram in the menu under "SMART" > "Weather" > "Rain sensor". In order to set the 5-stage sensor, slide the control to the left or right. The rain sensor can also be set under "Settings" > "Rain sensor". The sensitivity of the rain sensor and the time the robotic mower waits for the sensor surface to dry following rain varies, depending on the setting. 

What happens if I forget my PIN?

If you have forgotten your PIN and entered an incorrect PIN several times, you are prompted to enter the "master code". You can obtain this code from your STIHL/VIKING dealer.

Can the iMOW® robotic mower mow lawn edges cleanly?

Soft edges (ground level patios, paths, etc.) are positioned inside the perimeter wire in such a way that the mower produces perfectly clean results. Around hard edges such as walls, raised patios, etc., the iMOW® robotic mower is installed in such a way that it travels as close to the edge as possible, but always safely.

What is the Anti-Stuck Manoeuvre (ASM)?

When ASM is switched on, the iMOW® robotic mower starts an evasive routine if it gets stuck.
On - Default setting
Off - ASM should be switched off if:

  • the mowing area contains larger level surfaces (e.g. asphalted drives)
  • the robotic mower often turns 90° unexpectedly during the work
  • the robotic mower remains stationary with the message 1131 without getting stuck during the work.

What are the active times?

During the active times, the iMOW® robotic mower is allowed to leave the docking station and mow the lawn. Mowing operations, charging operations and rest periods take place during these times. The iMOW® automatically distributes the mowing and charging operations between the available time windows.

What is the dynamic mowing plan?

The dynamic mowing plan enables the iMOW® to automatically complete the weekly mowing duration during the active times. This protects the lawn and ensures an optimal mowing result.
Your iMOW® robotic mower's intelligence means that it can respond to external influences (cancellation due to rain, garden party, etc.) and distribute the mowing duration over other days.

What is the automatic function?

When automatic mowing is switched on, the iMOW® robotic mower independently leaves the docking station and mows the lawn during the active times. When automatic mowing is switched off, every mowing operation must be started manually. 

When should I replace the mowing blade?

Replace the mowing blade at least every 200 operating hours.

Where can I purchase a new mowing blade?

You can purchase a new mowing blade from your nearest STIHL/VIKING dealer: http://www.stihl.com

Can I grind or re-sharpen the mowing blade?

No, you should not grind or re-sharpen the mowing blade. 

How can I dispose of the iMOW®?

Consult your recycling centre or your nearest STIHL/VIKING dealer for information on the proper disposal of waste products.
The battery must be disposed of separately from the machine.

Where can I purchase accessories for my iMOW® robotic mower?

You can purchase accessories for your STIHL iMOW® robotic mower from your nearest STIHL/VIKING dealer. 

What should I do if a "Recommendation" appears in the status screen?

The iMOW® robotic mower can still be operated, automatic operation continues. Recommendations are assigned the priority "Low" or "Info"; they appear in the status screen alternately with the text "iMOW® ready for op.". 

What should I do if a "Fault" occurs on the iMOW® robotic mower?

Once you have acknowledged the fault on the display of your iMOW® robotic mower, the iMOW® can resume normal operation. Faults are assigned the priority "Medium" and require action by the user. 

What should I do if a "Error" message appears?

If an error occur with the priority "High", the text "Contact your specialist dealer" appears on the display. The iMOW® robotic mower can only be operated again once the error has been rectified by a STIHL/VIKING specialist dealer.

The iMOW® robotic mower does not enter the docking station automatically. What can I do?

Possible causes:

  • Uneven entry area to docking station
  • Dirty drive wheels or dirty floor plate
  • Perimeter wire incorrectly routed in area of docking station
  • Ends of perimeter wire not cut


Remedy:

  • Level out the entry area to the docking station
  • Clean the drive wheels and the floor plate of the docking station
  • Re-route the perimeter wire - ensure correct routing in the area of the docking station
  • Cut the perimeter wire as described and route it without excess length - do not roll up protruding ends

The iMow robotic mower fails to mow when the "Start mowing" or "Start time-delayed mowing" commands are activated. What can I do?

Possible cause:

  • Insufficient battery charge
  • Rain detected
  • Flap not closed or not present
  • Message is active
  • Homecall activated on the docking station


Remedy:

  • Charge the battery
  • Setting the rain sensor
  • Close the flap
  • Rectify displayed fault and confirm the message with "OK"
  • End Homecall or repeat command following docking

The iMOW® robotic mower has crossed the perimeter wire. What can I do?

Possible cause:

  • Perimeter wire incorrectly routed, clearances are not correct
  • Slope inclination of mowing area too steep
  • Interference affecting the iMOW® robotic mower


Remedy:

  • Check the routing of the perimeter wire, check clearances using the iMOW® Ruler
  • Check the routing of the perimeter wire; block off areas with excessively steep slope inclinations
  • Contact a STIHL/VIKING specialist dealer

Impact sensor is not activated when the iMOW® robotic mower hits an obstacle. What can I do?

Possible cause:

  • Low obstacle (height less than 8 cm)
  • The obstacle is not firmly attached to the ground


Remedy:

  • Remove the obstacle or block it off with a no-go area

The iMOW® robotic mower is not receiving any GPS signal. What can I do?

Possible cause:

  • The connection to the satellites is currently being established
  • 3 or fewer satellites within range
  • The machine is in a dead spot


Remedy:

  • No further action required; it can take a few minutes to establish the connection
  • Avoid or remove obstacles that might be blocking the signal (e.g. trees, canopies)

Can I also use the iMow robotic mower to mow areas "manually"?

You can mow areas "manually" using the RMI 632 models. The removable control panel allows you to operate the iMOW® robotic mower by hand both easily and conveniently.

Is the iMOW® robotic mower fitted with an anti-theft alarm?

 The iMOW® robotic mower is fitted with an anti-theft alarm. When the anti-theft alarm is activated, an alarm signal sounds one minute after the robotic mower is lifted. This can be prevented or reversed by entering the PIN code. C models also offer GPS protection. When GPS protection is activated, the owner of the iMOW® robotic mower is notified by SMS and e-mail if the iMOW® is stolen from the home area.

Which safety levels does the iMOW® robotic mower offer?

The iMOW® robotic has 4 safety levels. Various locks and safety devices are activated, depending on the level:

  • None: The iMOW® robotic mower is unprotected
  • Low: Anti-theft alarm is active. A PIN code must be entered in order to link the iMOW® and docking station as well as reset the machine to the default settings.
  • Medium: As "Low", but the time lock is also active.
  • High: As "Medium", but settings can also only be changed following entry of the PIN code.

Where can the docking station be positioned?

Requirements for the docking station position:

  • Protected, shady
  • Level and even with the ground
  • In the immediate vicinity of a suitable socket
  • Free from sources of interference

Metal, iron oxides and magnetic or electrically conductive materials as well as old perimeter wire installations can interfere with the mower's operation. It is recommended to remove these sources of interference.

  • In order for docking to take place smoothly, no no-go areas must be installed within a radius of at least 2 m around the docking station.


Floor plate:

  • The docking station must not be inclined by more than 2 cm rearwards or 8 cm forwards.
  • Never bend the ground plate.
  • Any unevenness must be removed under the ground plate so that it fully contacts the ground.

Can children remain within the mowing area during mowing operation?

Children must be kept away from the iMOW® robotic mower and mowing area during mowing operation. Never allow the iMOW® robotic mower to operate if you know that animals or persons, particularly children, are in the vicinity.
Never allow children to approach or play with the robotic
mower.

Can pets remain within the mowing area during mowing operation?

Dogs and other pets must be kept away from the iMOW® robotic mower and mowing area during mowing operation.
Never allow the iMOW® robotic mower to operate if you know that animals or persons, particularly children, are in the vicinity.

With which mobile end devices is the iMOW® app compatible?

The iMOW® app can be installed on a smartphone or tablet with iOS or Android operating system. An iMOW® web app for Internet browsers is also available. Visit the following page for more details: https://web.imow.stihl.com/systems

Where can I download the latest version of the iMOW® app?

You can download the latest version of the iMOW® app for end devices with an Android operating system from the Google Play Store.

You can download the latest version of the iMOW® app for end devices with an iOS from the App Store.

How do I install the iMOW® app on my mobile end device?

You can download the iMOW® app free of charge from the Google Play Store.

You can download the iMOW® app free of charge from the App Store.

In which languages is the iMOW® app available?

The iMOW® app is available in 25 languages:
Bulgarian, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovakian, Slovenian, Spanish, Sweden

What are the system requirements of the iMOW® app?

For an overview of the current system requirements for your end device, please visit: https://web.imow.stihl.com/systems

How does the login process work for the iMOW® app?

After purchasing an iMOW® robotic mower model RMI 422 PC, RMI 632 C or RMI 632 PC, your specialist dealer will create a user account with your e-mail address. You will then receive a confirmation e-mail and can specify your password. You can use this information to log on to the iMOW® app.  

How much does it cost to use the app?

Use of the iMOW® app and the mobile radio connection of the iMOW® robotic mower are included in the purchase price. The transmission of data will result in costs that must be borne by the user; these costs will be determined by the contract with the mobile phone provider or Internet provider.

How can I reset my password?

  • Select "Forgotten password" on the login page of the iMOW® app.
  • Specify the e-mail address you used to register.
  • You will receive an e-mail containing all other information and action steps.

Alternatively, you can change your password via the account settings (My data - Password).

What does STIHL do with my data?

STIHL will only use your personal data, in particular machine, device and usage data, to fulfil your existing contract and for the purpose of providing you with product support. We also use this data to generate anonymous statistics, which we then use to improve our products and services, monitor our products and guarantee maximum product safety.

Where can I manage my profile?

Open the iMOW® app and select your profile picture or the round iMOW® symbol above your e-mail address to manage your profile. 

How can I set the mowing duration in the iMOW® app?

To set the mowing duration in the iMOW® app, first select your iMOW® model in the overview. Then select "Smart" and then "Mowing duration". Here, you can adapt the time according to growth or change the mowing duration manually. 

What is my telephone number used for?

Your telephone number is used to send you a message notifying you that the GPS anti-theft alarm has triggered. The telephone number is optional.

What does it mean when "iMow is offline" is displayed in my iMow app?

If "iMOW® is offline" appears in the iMOW® app, this means that the iMOW® robotic mower is currently not connected to the Internet. This could be for several reasons:

  • the iMOW® has developed a fault
  • the iMOW® has gone offline to save energy
  • the iMOW® is located in a dead zone

What is the average volume of data that the iMOW® robotic mower exchanges during regular operation (incoming and outgoing data)?

An iMOW® consumes approx. 1 MB of data per month, depending on usage behaviour.

Which mobile network does the iMOW® robotic mower select?

The iMOW® robotic mower selects the strongest available 2G mobile network, as long as your local mobile phone provider is the same as one of our providers: https://app-cdn-appdata001-r-euwe-1b3d32.azureedge.net/providers/iMow-Providers.pdf

What is the usual time delay after inputting a command in the iMOW® app?

The technical processing time under ideal conditions is 1 second. The actual time delay depends on a number of factors such as the signal strength of the mobile radio connection of the iMOW® (GPRS reception), signal strength of the mobile network connection of the smartphone/tablet/PC, speed of the smartphone/tablet/PC, etc.

Which type of data connection does the iMOW® robotic mower support?

European iMOW® robotic mowers currently support 2G data connections.

Which providers can the iMOW® use to establish a mobile radio connection?

The iMOW® can use the following providers to establish a mobile radio connection: https://www.viking-garden.com/roaming-provider.aspx 

I do not receive any push notifications from the iMOW® app. Why is that?

Check:

  • whether the "Notification" function is activated in the account settings of the iMOW® app.
  • whether you have configured your smartphone notification settings to receive iMOW® app push notifications.

If you still do not receive push notifications, please contact the iMOW® support team at imowsupport@stihl.at

How can I set the active times?

You can set the active times directly using the "Mowing plan" menu item in the iMOW® display or under "Active times" in the iMOW® app. 

What is a desired zone?

A desired zone is an area in the mowing area that is defined using the smartphone or tablet. The centre point of the desired zone is defined using the GPS receiver of the mobile phone and a radius around this coordinate is defined. The iMOW® robotic mower travels along the perimeter wire to the desired zone and mows the grass there. The radius selected must be large enough that the desired zone and perimeter wire overlap. You define the desired zone by clicking on the "+" symbol. A desired zone is only active once for the desired mowing duration. 

How is the current weather forecast taken into consideration?

If the weather forecast is activated, the iMOW® robotic mower will take the forecasted weather into consideration within the active times. If rain is forecast for the end of the week, for example, the mowing times of the iMOW® robotic mower are postponed to the start of the week, if possible.

If my iMOW® robotic mower encounters problems, will I receive a notification via the iMOW® app?

Messages that affect normal operation are also reported to the iMOW® app. After the message is sent, the robotic mower switches to standby and the mobile radio connection is disabled (offline) to preserve the battery.

What is GPS protection?

The iMOW® robotic mower is fitted with a GPS receiver. When GPS protection is activated, the owner of the machine is notified if the machine is operated outside the home area via SMS and e-mail. The PIN code is also requested on the display. We recommend always activating the GPS protection.