SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger Support
Messaging
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Can I send a message to indicate that I have started tracking?
Yes! You may send a Check In or Custom message from your device to notify your contacts that you have enabled tracking mode. We recommend communicating with your contacts prior to leaving for your adventure to let them know that they may be receiving messages from your SPOT messenger or an email containing a share page link that will display your location information. Your tracking information may be viewed in the mapping platform or via your Shared Views. Please note, tracking mode does not send messages to contacts. Tracking mode records your location by sending a transmission with your GPS coordinates at a regular interval. Tracking intervals may be configured from your SPOT account.
What is the best location to send a message?
The ideal environment or location to send a message from your SPOT device would be a horizon to horizon view of the open sky. There are two satellite constellations that require a line of site to your device to acquire your GPS location and transmit messages. We understand that this type of location cannot always be attained, so here are a few tips in finding a good location to send your message. • Ensure that you are not too close to any tall buildings or structures that may block the view of the open sky. • If you are in a heavily forested area, attempt to find a clearing • If you are in a valley, attempt to elevate as much as possible
Why am I not getting my email and/or SMS messages?
SPOT sends messages to your contacts when the Check In, Customer, or HELP buttons are pressed on an active unit with a clear view to the sky. There are a few different issues that could cause a disruption in message transmission: Make sure you have activated SPOT at FindMeSPOT.com/Activate. Make sure SPOT is powered on before attempting to activate a message mode. Tracking and SOS do not send email or text messages, you can only view these messages in your SPOT account. Check to make sure the email addresses and cell phone numbers and providers are correct and your contacts are properly operating them. Always keep your SPOT in a place where it has a clear view of the sky with the logo facing up. Please keep in mind that even when the SPOT system sends messages, message delivery is dependent on the status of your network providers. This could mean that messages, like any email or SMS messages you send and receive every day, could be delayed. Please contact your mobile phone service provider, internet service provider or system administrator if you suspect irregular performance.
What does an email or SMS notification look like that I send from my SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger?
When the SPOT system receives a "Check In" or "Help" message, it will use the contact information settings that you entered to send notifications to your friends and family. The subject line of the email contains your unit number and if it is a "Check In" or "Help" message. The email contains the full "Check In" or "Help" message that you setup for the messenger. The email also contains the serial number, the exact latitude/longitude location and a map link. Clicking on the map link will pop up a Google maps page that will show them your current location. If you have added a mobile numbers as a contacts, they will also receive the notification. The format of messages sent to a mobile phones are almost identical. The exceptions are the inclusion of the Google map link and your GPS location.
How accurate is the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger when reporting a user's position?
The SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger has a location accuracy of approximately 20 ft. (5 m).
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