Briggs & Stratton recently announced the Briggs & Stratton Portable Bluetooth Generator, an 8,000 watt machine with StatStation Wireless connectivity. When operators are connected, they can remotely monitor the fuel gauge, remaining run time, percent of available watts, maintenance reminders, total hours, dealer locator, and reference materials from the free StatStation app.
The StatStation app is free and available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play. It is certified for use on iPhone 6 and above running at least iOS 9 or a Samsung Galaxy S6 or above running at least Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow). Keep in mind that the app is not limited to just Samsung phones and any smartphone running a modern enough operating system should run the app just fine.
“The integration of Bluetooth technology was the result of customer research that told us consumers become frustrated by not knowing remaining fuel levels or the remaining capacity of a portable generator. StatStation Wireless featuring Bluetooth allows users to check the performance of the generator without having to brave the elements.”
— Dan Roche, Director of Marketing for Briggs & Stratton Portable Power and Cleaning Systems
Our Take
Bluetooth generators – who would have thought? But here it is. If you’re going to connect via Bluetooth to your generator, Briggs & Stratton hit all the major concerns. Mainly, checking fuel levels, remaining run time under current load, and the current load on the machine plus a few bonuses.
What’s currently missing from most portable generators is an electric start, but Briggs & Stratton is one of the companies that has it. This begs the question – is a remote, phone operated start function on the horizon?
We’d sure like to see it.
Although the app is only rated to run on Android 6.0.1 or higher (that’d be Marshmallow), I was able to download, install, and go through the initial phases running Lollipop (5.1.1).
All in all, you’ve got a solid Briggs & Stratton gas generator with a couple of handy features to help keep your eyes on performance without having to go physically check the unit. Bluetooth means you have to stay within range though. You’ll have decide for yourself if the software is worth the premium price. Much of that decision will surely be based on any current frustrations that you have with fuel consumption and load issues.
Don’t need 8,000 watts? Ryobi has a Bluetooth generator on the way better suited for tailgating and other low load needs.
Briggs & Stratton Portable Bluetooth Generator Features
- Model number: Briggs & Stratton 030679
- Price: $1,199
- StatStation Bluetooth connectivity
- Multi-featured control panel with circuit breaker protection
- Electric start and remote choke
- Power Surge alternator
Briggs & Stratton Portable Bluetooth Generator Specifications
- 8,000 Watts
- 9-hour run time (at 50% load)
- 12-inch no-flat wheels
