There are instances when you may experience infrequent or inaccurate reporting due to variables impacting GPS or LTE-M. These situations are rare since the Fi Collar has multiple connection sources. See: What Is the Best Connection Source for My Dog’s Fi Collar?
It is important to understand GPS and LTE-M to fully comprehend why you may receive inaccurate or infrequent reports while using Fi.
What Is GPS?
GPS is a navigation system that uses satellites to determine locations on Earth. Signals from satellites are received by GPS receivers, which calculate the user's location.
Fi utilizes three satellite positioning systems, a total of 78 satellites working around the world to locate your dog.
GPS is only intended to be used outdoors. Your dog’s surroundings, including geography or topography, can impact the GPS signal, potentially leading to infrequent or inaccurate reports.
What Is LTE-M?
LTE-M is a cellular technology that offers low power consumption and extended coverage, allowing data to be sent over long distances reliably and efficiently. With this technology, Fi is able to ensure that your dog can be located in most areas.
LTE-M is generally available wherever the AT&T cellular network is available, though there are still some areas with limited coverage. In these areas, you may experience infrequent reporting.
How Does Fi Use GPS and LTE-M?
Fi uses GPS and LTE-M in tandem. Once Fi receives a signal from GPS to determine its location, it uses LTE-M connectivity to transmit your dog’s location information to your Fi App.
By leveraging GPS for location determination and LTE-M for communication, Fi can report your dog’s location effectively in real time.
We highly recommend testing to understand coverage in your area. See: Testing Lost Dog Mode and Testing GPS + LTE-M
If you’d like to review your test with a member of our Customer Success Team, we're here to help.