The Fi Collar can obtain your dog's location from four different connection sources (three for Series 1). It's important that your dog's Fi Collar access the proper connection state to receive accurate data.
To see what your Fi Collar is currently connected to, see: How Can I See What My Dog’s Fi Collar Is Connected To?
Hierarchy of Connection Sources
Your dog's Fi Collar is smart; it will always prefer the connection source that consumes the least amount of power in this order:
- Fi Base
- Fi App
- Wi-Fi
- GPS/LTE-M
If your dog's collar is connected to a more power-intensive mode and it comes in range of connection source that consumes less power, it will automatically switch.
For example, a Fi Collar that's reporting it's location via LTE-M and comes into range of an owner with the Fi App on their smartphone will automatically connect to the Fi App and turn off the GPS/LTE-M chips.
A Fi Collar will never disconnect from a low power source for another unless the first source is no longer available.
For example, if two owners are next to one another and your dog's collar is connected to one owner, the Fi Collar will remain connected to that owner until they are out of range.
Recommended Connection Sources For Different Locations
Where is your dog? |
What Is the Best Connection Source? |
What are the benefits? |
Indoors |
Fi Base |
If your dog is indoors, the best connection source is the Fi Base, as this will be the most accurate and provide the best overall battery performance. See: How The Fi Base Works |
Indoors |
Wi-Fi* |
If a Fi Base is not available, your dog's collar should have access to the Wi-Fi network whenever possible. This will ensure accurate location reports and avoid powering on the GPS/LTE-M chips unnecessarily. *Series 1 does not have Wi-Fi. |
Outdoors, on a walk |
Fi App |
Essential for proper walk tracking and overall performance. |
Outdoors, away from an owner |
GPS/LTE-M |
With a Fi Membership, if your dog is outdoors and away from owners, the Fi Collar will power on its GPS/LTE-M chips and provide their remote location. If your dog is lost, you should turn on Lost Dog Mode. See: How To Turn On Lost Dog Mode |