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How to Troubleshoot GPS Issues

  • Updated

1. Summary

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting common GPS issues, specifically Bluetooth issues, No Signal issues, and RTK issues that users may encounter while using the Locusview system. It is intended for field technicians and end customers who rely on accurate GPS functionality during their work.

2. Prerequisites

  • A GPS-enabled device.

  • Access to the Locusview mobile app.

  • Arrow Gold+™ or Arrow Gold® RTK GNSS Receiver.

3. Types of GPS Issues and Troubleshooting Steps

Bluetooth Issues

There are two common types of Bluetooth issues that may occur:

Issue 1: General Bluetooth Pairing Problems

  • Step 1: Ensure Bluetooth is Enabled

    • Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth and ensure that Bluetooth is toggled on.

  • Step 2: Pair the Arrow GNSS Receiver

    • Make sure your Arrow GNSS receiver is powered on.

    • Go to Settings > Bluetooth and select the Arrow GNSS receiver from the list of available devices.

  • Step 3: Restart Bluetooth

    • If the receiver is not appearing, toggle Bluetooth off and on again.

    • Restart the tablet if issues persist.

  • Step 4: Inspect for Interference

    • Ensure that no other devices are attempting to pair simultaneously, as this can cause connection interference. The GPS can only connect to one device at a time. Ensure that no one else is connected (particularly Apple devices, as they can auto-connect).

    • Turn off nearby Bluetooth devices to avoid potential interference.

Issue 2: App Stuck on 'Connecting To External Device'

  • This message means the GPS is not connecting properly, which could be due to either a Bluetooth issue or an app issue.

  • Troubleshooting Step: Force close the app and then follow the Bluetooth troubleshooting steps above to resolve the issue.

 

Signal Issues (No Signal)

Step 1: Verify Environmental Conditions

  • GPS signals can be obstructed by tall buildings, thick tree cover (like forests or dense bushes), or bad weather conditions.

  • Ensure that the GPS is in an open area with a clear view of the sky, away from obstructions such as tall buildings, thick trees, vehicles, power lines, or construction equipment.

  • If in doubt, use the tablet’s camera for a 360-degree view of the surroundings to confirm there are no obstructions.

Step 2: Set Up Arrow GNSS Receiver Properly

  • The Arrow GNSS receiver should be set up in an area with a clear view of the sky, free of obstructions.

  • Antenna Connection: When connecting the Arrow receiver and antenna, make sure the antenna cable is only finger-tightened. Avoid using tools to prevent damage.

  • Inspect Antenna Cable: Check the antenna cable for any visible damage. A damaged cable can prevent proper satellite tracking.

Step 3: Restart GPS and Reconnect the Cables

  • Turn Off GPS.

  • Remove the coaxial cables completely from both ends.

  • Reconnect cables by hand, ensuring they are finger-tightened.

  • Move to a different location and turn on the GPS.

  • Wait 5 minutes for the GPS to acquire a signal.

Step 4: Restart GPS Device or Tablet

  • Restart the GPS device or tablet. This simple step often resolves minor software glitches that may be affecting GPS performance.

Step 5: App Verification

  • If the GPS has all the lights on, but the app is showing "No Signal":

    • Confirm that all fields in the Settings tab are populated.

    • Use EOS Tools Pro for additional GPS diagnostics:

      • Verify View Satellites and Used Satellites. Only Used Satellites count for accurate positioning.

      • Under Terminal, typing $JBOOT under Terminal can reset the GPS. It can be used to get the GPS “unstuck”

Step 6: Hardware Check

  • If issues persist, check for damaged GPS hardware.

  • Confirm that the pins in the coaxial cable are intact.

  • Ask if the GPS was exposed to rain or was dropped, which may cause damage.

  • Ensure that the GPS is charged, as a low battery can lead to signal issues.

  • Verify that the coaxial threads are not damaged.

RTK Issues

Step 1: Verify RTK Base Station Connection

  • Ensure that your Arrow GNSS receiver is within range of the RTK base station.

Step 2: Confirm RTK Credentials

  • On the Locusview app, navigate to the RTK Settings and ensure the correction source is properly configured.

  • Select the correct stream or station for your RTK connection.

Step 3: Inspect Network Connectivity

  • For network-based RTK corrections, ensure you have a stable internet connection on your tablet.

  • Utilize a hotspot if the connection is unstable or weak.

4. Visual Aids

5. Troubleshooting Tips

  • No GPS Signal: Ensure you are in an open area, and verify that the GPS setting is enabled. Restarting your device may also help.

  • Inaccurate Location Data: Make sure the device has a clear view of the sky, and avoid sources of interference such as large metal objects.

  • Bluetooth Connection Drops: Restart the Bluetooth setting or the mobile device to resolve connection drops.

  • Slow GPS Response Time: Verify environmental conditions and ensure that your firmware is up to date.

6. Additional Notes and Best Practices

  • Avoid Signal Interference: Keep away from large metal objects (such as power lines, vehicles, metal fences, or construction equipment) and turn off nearby Bluetooth devices if possible.

  • Stay in Open Areas: Always use GPS in areas with minimal obstructions for better accuracy.

7. FAQs

  • Q: Why does my GPS signal cut off in cities?

    • A: Tall buildings can block satellite signals. Try moving to an open area.

  • Q: My GPS doesn't grab a signal inside my car/building. What should I do?

    • A: GPS does not work indoors and can have very poor connectivity inside a car. For best results, use GPS outdoors with a clear view of the sky.

 

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