What is "Precise Location" settings and how does effect the performance of the Silvanet Deployment app?

When deploying Silvanet devices in the field, accurate location data from your mobile device is essential to ensure each device’s correct geolocation is sent to the Silvanet Cloud and to support accurate alert location across your Silvanet network. Enabling your mobile device’s Precise Location setting improves GPS accuracy, ensuring devices are registered at their exact installation locations. This accuracy is also critical for reliable site mapping, network optimization, and effective monitoring once deployment is complete.

What Is “Precise Location”?

On both Android and iOS, location permissions can be granted at two levels:

• Precise Location
  Allows the app to access your device’s most accurate location, using all available positioning sources such as GPS, mobile network data, and other location services.

• Approximate Location
  Limits the app to a generalized location area, which may span several hundred meters or more.

To ensure each Silvanet device is registered at its exact installation point, especially in remote or high-risk fire zones, the Silvanet Deployment App requires Precise Location to be enabled. This ensures accurate device placement, reliable alert location, and effective site mapping across your Silvanet network.

Why Is Precise Location Important?

Precise Location settings directly affect several core functions within the Silvanet Deployment App:

Accurate Deployment Logs
Device registration relies on precise coordinates to correctly record each device’s real-world position and display it accurately in the Map View.

Connectivity Diagnostics
Signal strength and LTE-M or LoRaWAN coverage can vary significantly over short distances. Precise location data helps correlate connectivity test results with exact terrain features and placement conditions.

Accurate Alert Location for Emergency Response
In the event of a wildfire, the Silvanet system uses the installation location data to pinpoint the source of an alert. Accurate GPS positioning enables emergency responders to navigate efficiently and reach the affected area without unnecessary delay.

How to Enable Precise Location

On iPhone (iOS):

1. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.

2. Make sure Location Services are turned On.

3. Scroll down and select Silvanet Deployment from the app list.

4. Choose While Using the App.

5. Toggle Precise Location to On.

On Android:

1. Open your device’s Settings.

2. Go to Location > App Permissions.

3. Tap Silvanet Deployment App.

4. Choose Allow only while using the app.

5. Toggle Use Precise Location to On.

How to Tell If It’s Working

When properly configured, the Deployment App will display your GPS coordinates with minimal drift. You’ll notice more reliable behavior when:

• Pinpointing a tree or pole for sensor placement

• Scanning QR codes and assigning devices during the registration flow

If you see inaccurate markers on the map or if deployments appear in the wrong area, check that Precise Location is turned on.