GPS

OcuTrap uses an integrated u-blox GPS module to provide location tracking and mapping capabilities. This guide explains the GPS settings and functionality to help you get the most accurate location data for your traps.


How GPS Works on OcuTrap

GPS is battery-optimized by design. Rather than continuously tracking location, OcuTrap uses strategic update intervals to maximize battery life while keeping you informed of trap locations.

Default Behavior

  • Update Interval: Every 8 hours (default)

  • First Boot Delay: 5-minute delay after power-on before first GPS acquisition

  • Automatic Capture Updates: GPS automatically triggered when a capture occurs

  • Fix Requirements: Minimum 5 satellites with a 3D fix for valid position


GPS Settings

GPS Interval

  • Controls how frequently the GPS updates location data

  • Default: 8 hours (recommended for battery life)

  • Can be disabled to conserve battery life

  • Located in Settings → GPS Interval

  • Manual updates still possible through the interface when disabled

GPS Status Indicators

When viewing trap locations, you'll see key metrics:

  • Satellites Connected: Number of GPS satellites currently in use (e.g., "8 connected"). More satellites = better accuracy.

  • Last Updated: How long ago the GPS position was updated (e.g., "6 Hours Ago").

  • Radius: The trap's last location is within the approximate radius.

Best Practices

Optimal GPS Performance

  • Place the OcuTrap outdoors with clear sky view for best results

  • First fix: Allow up to 3 minutes for initial GPS acquisition after power-on

  • Subsequent fixes: Typically acquired within 2 minutes

  • System will timeout if no fix is acquired within the timeout period

  • More satellites generally means better accuracy

  • Buildings, dense foliage, and urban canyons can reduce accuracy

Manual Updates

  • In controls, click on data button to request a GPS update

  • Only works when GPS is not disabled in settings

  • Useful for verifying position without waiting for next interval

Access Levels

  • GPS viewing capabilities are restricted by user access level

  • Owner and Manager level users and above can view all trap locations in map tab

  • Lower access levels may have restricted viewing capabilities

Troubleshooting

No Fix Available

  1. Ensure device is outdoors with clear view of sky

  2. Wait up to 2 minutes for initial fix

  3. Check GPS Interval setting is not disabled

  4. Try manual update by clicking location data

  5. If problems persist, verify no physical obstructions are blocking GPS antenna

Poor Accuracy

  • Move device to location with clearer sky view

  • Wait for more satellites to be acquired

  • Verify Fix type is 3 for best accuracy

  • Consider environmental factors (buildings, trees, etc.)

Battery Considerations

  • GPS usage impacts battery life significantly

  • Default 8-hour interval is optimized for multi-week deployments

  • Shorter intervals provide more frequent updates but reduce battery life

  • Disable GPS when location tracking not needed

  • GPS is automatically disabled in Low Power mode to conserve battery

  • Poor cellular signal in combination with GPS can increase power consumption

Map Interface

  • Toggle between Map and Satellite views

  • Terrain overlay available for topographical reference

  • Zoom controls for detailed area inspection

Last updated

Was this helpful?