Kestrel LiNK Wireless USB Dongle – What It Does and When You Need It

If you own a Kestrel 5 Series meter with LiNK (Bluetooth Low Energy), you already know how powerful these instruments are for capturing environmental data in the field. But when it comes to getting that data onto your computer, there's one accessory that makes the process completely wireless: the Kestrel LiNK Wireless USB Dongle.

What Is the Kestrel LiNK Dongle?

The Kestrel LiNK Wireless USB Dongle (SKU: 0786) is a compact USB adapter that enables wireless communication between any LiNK-enabled Kestrel 5 Series meter and your Windows PC or Mac. Paired with the free Kestrel LiNK software, it lets you:

• Upload and export logged data from your Kestrel to your computer
• Install firmware updates wirelessly
• Manage your device settings from a desktop interface

Do You Actually Need It?

This is the most common question — and the answer depends on how you work.

You do NOT need the dongle if you only want to connect your Kestrel to an iPhone, iPad, or Android smartphone. The LiNK Bluetooth connection works natively with the Kestrel LiNK app on iOS and Android — no dongle required. Kestrel 5 series LiNK enabled models have the ability to receive firmware updates using the Kestrel app on your smartphone or tablet as well as to export data as a CSV file which can be sent via email to colleagues or to your PC / Mac computer with a simple selection using the Kestrel app.

You DO need the dongle if you want to transfer data logs or push firmware updates from a Windows or Mac computer. Laptops and desktops don't natively support the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol used by Kestrel LiNK meters, so the dongle bridges that gap.

Key Features

• Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems
• Plugs into any standard USB port
• Long-range wireless data exchange
• Small and lightweight — easy to toss in your kit bag
• Works with all Kestrel 5 Series meters that have LiNK (BLE)

Who Is It For?

The LiNK dongle is ideal for professionals who need to archive data logs on a computer — whether you're a meteorologist, ballistics shooter, HVAC technician, or field researcher. If your workflow involves exporting CSV data or keeping firmware current on your Kestrel, this $39 accessory pays for itself quickly.

A Note on Compatibility

The dongle is designed specifically for Kestrel 5 Series meters with LiNK. It is not compatible with older Kestrel models or 5 Series meters without the LiNK feature. Check your model number before purchasing — LiNK-enabled models include the 5100, 5200, 5400, 5500, 5700, and their variants and 7000.

Ready to go fully wireless with your Kestrel data workflow? Shop the Kestrel LiNK Wireless USB Dongle at ExtremeMeters.com.